Kings Health Department asks public to remain vigilant regarding COVID-19 variants

It is now considered a “Variant of Concern” according to both the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).  The good news is that vaccines currently in use have proved effective on the variants.

Current research indicates the Delta variant is significantly more transmissible than the original strain, and it is spreading fastest in areas with low vaccination rates. According to the Kings County Department of Public Health’s (KCDPH) records, approximately one-third of the County’s eligible population has been vaccinated, which mirrors other areas in the country currently experiencing large outbreaks of the Delta variant. 

Current research shows that the COVID-19 vaccines authorized for use in the United States are effective against all COVID-19 variants and are the best defense at preventing severe disease and death.  Getting vaccinated is also the best way to help prevent the spread of the virus to people who cannot yet get the vaccine, such as young children and the immune-compromised.

“Kings County is currently experiencing low COVID-19 infection rates and things feel like they are getting back to normal,” said Heather Silva, Assistant Director of the KCDPH. “This is why it is more important now than ever that residents do what they can to prevent outbreaks of this new, more contagious variant.”

All three of the COVID-19 vaccines authorized for use are readily available throughout Kings County, including the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine which is authorized for individuals aged 12 and older. Residents can go to www.vaccines.gov or https://myturn.ca.gov/ to search for locations and types of vaccines closest to them. The State’s MyTurn hotline is also available for appointment assistance: (833) 422-4255.

Additionally, KCDPH is available to help coordinate on-site vaccine clinics for Kings County businesses and organizations, free of charge. To complete an online request for an employer-based vaccine clinic visit https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/mobilevaccination or call (559) 584-1401 for more information.

Public Health officials urge Kings County residents to get vaccinated and continue practicing physical distancing, washing their hands frequently, and wearing face coverings. Additionally, it is more important now than ever for anyone experiencing COVID-19 symptoms or who has been exposed to a confirmed case to be tested, cooperate with contact tracers, and isolate themselves to prevent further spread.