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Ulster County officials are intensifying efforts to promote COVID-19 vaccinations among residents. The Ulster County Department of Health is offering vaccines to uninsured and underinsured individuals, including infants, children, and adolescents up to 18 years old. Children under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian, and previous immunization records are required at the time of vaccination. Adults aged 19 and older can also receive vaccines by appointment only, by calling 845-340-3070.
The Department of Health is providing updated COVID-19 vaccines, including the Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna vaccines, to protect against severe illness. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone aged five years and older receive one dose of the updated vaccine. Those who are moderately or severely immunocompromised may receive additional doses.
Globally, immunization remains a critical component of public health, as highlighted by the World Health Organization (WHO). Vaccines prevent millions of deaths each year by training the immune system to combat diseases without causing the illnesses themselves. They are essential for preventing and controlling infectious disease outbreaks and are a key tool in maintaining global health security.