(Woodland, CA) – Yolo County recently recorded four COVID-19 deaths among older adults who had not received all COVID boosters for which they were eligible. Of the seven COVID-19 deaths in Yolo County residents during July, all were in adults 70 and older. Only one of the seven was up to date with COVID booster shots. Being up to date with boosters may have prevented these tragic deaths. Yolo County Health and Human Services Agency’s Community Health Branch reminds older adults to stay alive by staying up to date with COVID-19 booster shots.   

Adults 50 years old and older are eligible for and recommended to receive a second COVID booster four months after receiving their first booster. However, only one-third of eligible residents have received a second booster, leaving thousands of older adults at risk of severe COVID-19 disease, hospitalization, and death. Immunity from vaccination decreases over time, particularly among older adults, and staying up to date with boosters helps maintain a high level of immune protection. A high level of immune protection is particularly important when COVID-19 levels in the community are high like they are now in Yolo County.

While vaccination may not prevent a mild infection with the BA.5 Omicron subvariant spreading across California, vaccination continues to provide strong protection against severe disease, hospitalization, and death. An updated booster vaccine targeting Omicron variants is expected to become available this fall, but older adults need the added protection of boosters now and should not delay receiving a booster if they are currently eligible.

“It is extremely important for older adults to receive a second COVID-19 booster shot as soon as possible. Do not wait for the fall to get a second booster. A booster in late September or October cannot protect you if you die from an infection in August. Get your booster now,” said Yolo County Health Officer, Dr. Aimee Sisson. “I encourage family members and friends of older adults to assist older adults in scheduling appointments for a booster shot and helping them get to their appointment.”

Anyone who is over the age of 50 can receive a second booster, along with those 12 and older who are moderately or severely immunocompromised. Everyone ages five and older can get a single booster shot. To see the vaccination schedule, visit www.yolocounty.org/covid and look under the “When Should I Get a Booster Shot?” tab.

Vaccination and boosters are widely available in Yolo County, including through:

-Your healthcare provider

-Local pharmacies at www.vaccines.gov

-Local clinics at www.myturn.ca.gov

-Clinics sponsored by Move It Up and the UC Davis Center for Reducing Health Disparities

Yolo County also offers its Door Vax program for those unable to travel to a clinic. A vaccinator can come to your home or business to vaccinate anyone ages five and older for free. This can be a great option for older adults with mobility and/or transportation challenges. To schedule an appointment, call the following numbers Monday to Friday from 9 am to 5 pm:

-For English: (530) 902 - 3230

-Para Español (Spanish): (530) 220-6481

-??? ??????? (Russian): (530) 908 - 0721

For more information about COVID-19, visit www.yolocounty.org/covid.