- Written by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
- Category: Media Releases
Per the following CDC press release dated Wednesday, December 1, 2021, please know that although no cases of the Omicron COVID-19 variant have been reported yet in Georgia, the North Georgia Health District is:
- Continuing to urge residents ages 5 and up to get fully vaccinated against COVID-19, including 3rd shots and boosters – COVID-19 vaccine is available for free and without need of an appointment at all our health departments during clinic hours in Cherokee, Fannin, Gilmer, Murray, Pickens and Whitfield counties - please click HERE for details.
- Encouraging COVID-19 testing for anyone who has any symptoms or believes they may have been exposed to the virus. MAKO Medical Services has collaborated with public health to operate Free COVID-19 PCR Testing in all our counties - please click HERE.
- Reminding residents to continue following the CDC recommendations to protect against the spread of COVID-19, including social distancing and wearing a mask in public, as appropriate - please link HERE to the CDC website.
Media Statement
For Immediate Release
Wednesday, December 1, 2021
Contact: CDC Media Relations (404) 639-3286
First confirmed case of Omicron variant detected in the United States
The California and San Francisco Departments of Public Health have confirmed that a recent case of COVID-19 among an individual in California was caused by the Omicron variant (B.1.1.529). The individual was a traveler who returned from South Africa on November 22, 2021. The individual, who was fully vaccinated and had mild symptoms that are improving, is self-quarantining and has been since testing positive. All close contacts have been contacted and have tested negative.
Genomic sequencing was conducted at the University of California, San Francisco and the sequence was confirmed at CDC as being consistent with the Omicron variant. This will be the first confirmed case of COVID-19 caused by the Omicron variant detected in the United States.
- Hits: 2059
- Written by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
- Category: Media Releases
From CDC Website: News Release
For Immediate Release: Friday, November 19, 2021
Contact: Media Relations
(404) 639-3286
Today, CDC Director Rochelle P. Walensky, M.D., M.P.H., endorsed the CDC Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices’ (ACIP) expanded recommendations for booster shots to include all adults ages 18 years and older who received a Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna vaccine at least six months after their second dose.
The Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) authorization and CDC’s recommendation for use are critical next steps forward in our country’s booster program – a program which will help provide increased protection against COVID-19 disease and death.
CDC continues to encourage the 47 million adults who are not yet vaccinated to get vaccinated as soon as possible to protect themselves, their families, loved ones and communities. We also strongly encourage those who were already eligible – older populations and individuals with underlying medical conditions – to get boosted before the holidays.
Anyone can find available vaccines near them at vaccines.gov and can consult their health care provider or local pharmacist if they have questions about vaccines or boosters.
- Hits: 2704
- Written by Jennifer King, Public Information Officer
- Category: Media Releases
SHARING THE LATEST INFORMATION FROM THE CDC
Holiday traditions are important for families and children. There are several ways to enjoy holiday traditions and protect your health. Because many generations tend to gather to celebrate holidays, the best way to minimize COVID-19 risk and keep your family and friends safer is to get vaccinated if you’re eligible.
COVID-19 vaccine is available at all Health Departments in North Georgia, which includes Cherokee, Fannin, Gilmer, Murray, Pickens and Whitfield counties. The vaccine is free and no appointments are needed for anyone 5 years of age and older who is eligible for primary, booster or 3rd shots - go HERE to learn more about all COVID-19 dosage eligibility. Click on your county name above to find your local health department location and clinic hours. Click HERE to find free nasal-swab COVID-19 Testing locations and Registration in North Georgia.
- Hits: 2109