The Livingston County Department of Health (LCDOH) reports that, as of November 26, 2021, there are 328 active cases and 14 hospitalizations related to COVID-19. Sadly, there were four COVID-19-related deaths this week.
Jennifer Rodriguez, Livingston County Public Health Director, stated, “We offer our deepest condolences to all those who have lost family members, friends and loved ones during this difficult time.”
“We encourage our residents to remain vigilant as we are in the midst of the holidays, the flu season, and the colder winter months when people gather indoors more often,” continued Rodriguez.
“To help protect our community, consider getting your COVID-19 vaccination if you have not done so already. This includes pediatric COVID-19 vaccines and booster doses for those who are eligible. A major benefit of the COVID-19 vaccine is that it significantly decreases the likelihood of hospitalization and severe illness related to the virus.”
Based on recent statistics, approximately 75% of individuals hospitalized for COVID-19 in Livingston County have been unvaccinated while approximately 25% have been vaccinated. While cases are indeed climbing, at this point, Livingston County is not considering mandates related to masks or vaccines.
County Administrator Ian M. Coyle stated, “This week was a sobering reminder that COVID-19 is very much still with us and still spreading. The County remains committed to serving the public’s needs as it relates to this pandemic response. This entails testing, vaccine distribution and marketing, reporting of cases, partnerships with schools both K-12 and higher education, and the promotion and deployment of pediatric and booster vaccine clinics. This is all done in a pro-public health and transparent fashion with best-in-class service from our amazing staff. We have also proudly been leaders locally in the test-to-stay pilot program to get more kids to stay in class versus home in, frankly, unnecessary quarantines.”
“That being said, this service also entails speaking directly and honestly to a very weary public about the virus,” Coyle continued. “According to the data, cases are surely on the rise, and hospitalizations are starting to creep up as well. This is a powerful, easily transmittable and deadly virus, and this is the season where spikes and surges will occur. Our regional hospital system is already seeing impacts related to capacity. Both unvaccinated and vaccinated people can get, spread and die from the virus – however, it does tend to prey more heavily on the unvaccinated in terms of impact and the overall count of hospitalizations. Protect yourself and your family first. Mask up when and where appropriate, and stay home and isolated if you are experiencing symptoms. Responsible, community-minded citizenship will go a long way to improving outcomes.”
Children 5 – 11 Years
Vaccine appointments for children ages 5 – 11 are now available at New York State mass vaccination sites. Click on the state website for more information or to make an appointment.
In addition, please check with your healthcare provider, local pharmacies or visit the LCDOH COVID-19 Vaccine Information webpage to find the nearest local pediatric vaccination sites.
Booster Doses
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) recommend that anyone who is 18 and older and received the Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna initial COVID-19 vaccine series at least six months ago or the Janssen/Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine at least two months ago get their booster dose, especially those over the age of 50 and others with underlying conditions.
Currently, LCDOH is not offering first and second dose COVID-19 vaccine clinics; however, it offers a weekly booster clinic. Visit the LCDOH COVID-19 Vaccine Information webpage to register for a LCDOH booster clinic and to find other locations that are offering first, second and booster doses of the COVID-19 vaccine in Livingston County.
Other Resources
COVID-19 vaccines are safe, effective, and free. Get answers to your questions about these vaccines by visiting the CDC website or talking with your doctor.
LCDOH continues to offer COVID-19 testing on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays starting at 9 a.m. by appointment only. Please call 585-243-7270 Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. to schedule your test. You may also call your doctor or visit the CDC website for an overview of COVID-19 testing. LCDOH accepts positive test results from at-home (self) COVID-19 tests. Individuals can visit LCDOH Coronavirus Disease 2019 to complete the online form to upload positive test results.
Visit the LCDOH Coronavirus Disease 2019 webpage for general information on COVID-19 and to view the Livingston County COVID-19 Dashboard.
For those over 60 years of age:
– LCDOH and the Livingston County Office for the Aging (LCOFA) can help you find a COVID-19 vaccine and can provide information about booster doses.
– We may also be able to assist if you want a vaccine but do not have transportation.
– Homebound individuals who would like a COVID-19 vaccine in their home are encouraged to call.
– Please call 585-243-7520 or 585-243-7270 for further assistance.
Livingston County Mental Health (LCMH) has created a help line for community members who need someone to talk to during these stressful times. This is a free and confidential service. Please call 585-243-7251, Monday – Friday from 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
To learn more about LCDOH, please call 585-243-7270. Call 585-243-7520 for more information on LCOFA. LCMH can be reached by calling 585-243-7250.
