Do I still have to worry about COVID-19? The short answer is yes. Although the public health emergency ended in May, there has been an increase in COVID cases largely due to the new Omicron subvariant (a version of the virus).
Although past infection and vaccination with the current bivalent booster offer you protection and reduce symptoms, it is still possible to get sick from this subvariant. Vaccination significantly lowers the risk of severe illness, hospitalization and death.
To protect yourself, take these precautions:
• Stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines.
• Avoid contact with people who have suspected or confirmed COVID-19.
• Follow recommendations for isolation if you have suspected or confirmed COVID-19.
• Follow the recommendations for what to do if you are exposed to someone with COVID-19.
For the latest information on COVID-19, please visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website.