Here are key updates since our Sept. 28 E-Newsletter. Scroll down to read more:
- Holiday COVID test kit distribution planned for Nov. 17.
- Updated COVID shots for uninsured available.
- Be the voice behind the data. Take our community survey.
- Richwood immunization clinic scheduled for Dec. 16
- Medicare & ACA insurance open enrollment is now.
- Help available for those wanting to quit smoking/vaping.
Holiday COVID Test Kit Distribution is Nov. 17
In advance of the thanksgiving holiday, the Union County Health Department is offering a free COVID test kit distribution on Nov. 17. Reserve your kit online at UnionCountyCOVID.org and pick up on Nov. 17 from 8am-4pm at the Health Department. You can reserve as many kits as you need for your thanksgiving holiday*. The test kits have a mid-December expiration date. You can pick up kits for multiple households. If you can’t make it on Nov. 17, stop by Monday through Friday from 8am-4pm and pick up test kits at your convenience. * We reserve the right to implement a limit should demand exceed supply.
Updated COVID Shots for 2023-2024
The Union County Health Department is participating in federal and state programs to offer updated COVID shots for uninsured children and adults. Please give our office a call at (937) 645-2058 to learn more and make an appointment.
Per their respective websites, CVS, Meijer and Walgreens pharmacies in Marysville are taking appointments for the new COVID vaccine which has been updated for the 2023-2024 respiratory virus season. Please visit their websites or call to book an appointment or for more information, including accepted insurances.
- CVS – https://www.cvs.com/
- Kroger – https://www.kroger.com/health/clinic/vaccinations/covid-19
- Meijer – https://clinic.meijer.com/
- Walgreens – https://www.walgreens.com/
Since the Federal Emergency Declaration ended in May 2023, COVID vaccination is now part of the private marketplace. Local health departments and other healthcare providers must individually order the new COVID vaccine from the manufacturers. We have ordered and administered two shipments of vaccine thus far. We have placed a third order for a limited supply we hope to receive in coming weeks.
Per the CDC, an updated COVID vaccine is recommended for most people age 6 months and older. At least 2 months must have passed since you received a previous COVID shot to get the updated shot.
Be the Voice Behind the Data: Take the Community Survey
Residents of Union County are being asked to complete a community survey during the month of November. The survey, which can be found at https://uchd.net/community-survey/, helps to tell the story of health and the factors that shape health for the people who call Union County home.
“Local data is crucial to identifying the unique needs of our community. It helps inform strategies to address these needs, and helps procure funding to implement solutions,” said Mary Salimbene Merriman, chief epidemiologist for the Union County Health Department and chair of the community assessment workgroup.
The community survey is estimated to take about 20 minutes to complete. The survey is open through Dec. 8. Union County residents age 18 and older are invited to take the survey. The survey asks about a wide array of factors that influence health and health conditions such as diet, exercise, risk behaviors, mental health, substance abuse, health insurance, healthcare, and housing.
Richwood Immunization Clinic on Saturday, Dec. 16
The Union County Health Department is headed back to the Richwood-North Union Library on Dec. 16 to offer child and adult immunizations. Please call (937) 645-2058 to make an appointment. Please request the Richwood location when making the appointment. Walk-ins are welcome as resources allow, but an appointment ensures we have the vaccines you need. Ages 6 months and older are welcome. High dose flu vaccine, recommended for people age 65 and older, will be available. Updated COVID vaccine will be available as inventory allows. Most other routine child and adult immunizations will also be available for those with appointments.
An annual flu shot is recommended for everyone ages 6 months and older. Flu vaccination is one of the best tools we have to protect against serious complications associated with the flu. In Union County, reported flu hospitalizations typically peak in January or February.
Medicare & ACA Open Enrollment is Now: We Can Help
Exploring what health insurance options you have through the federal marketplace? Or maybe you’re age 65 or older and want to compare Medicare options? We can help. Our certified application counselor can help you compare options and provide advice on what factors to consider when looking at an insurance plan. Call (937) 642-2053 today to schedule an appointment with our certified application counselor.
- Medicare Supplemental Plan Open Enrollment Period: Now through Dec. 07, 2023
- Federal Marketplace Open Enrollment Period: Now through Jan. 15, 2024
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| Need help quitting tobacco? Call the Ohio Quit Line at 1-800-QUIT-NOW. Free phone counseling and free nicotine replacement options available 24/7. |
Let’s Talk Turkey!
The USDA recommends thawing your turkey in the refrigerator. This is the safest method because the turkey will thaw at a consistent, safe temperature. This method takes some time, so allow one day for each 4 – 5 pounds of weight. If your turkey weighs 16 pounds, it will take about four days to thaw.The USDA has lots of great info about how to safely prepare your holiday meal. Click here to learn more.
Upcoming Events
Nov. 17 – Free COVID Test Kit Distribution
Dec. 16 – Richwood Immunization Clinic