by Nathan Boddy
Ravalli County Public Health is mobilized and ready to provide the Covid vaccine to anyone who is willing to take it, from age 12 and over. Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) indicates that, as of Friday, June 11th, approximately 43% of Ravalli County had been fully vaccinated against the virus while statewide the percentage hovers around 44%. Ravalli County Public Health Director, Tiffany Webber, says that, with an overall vaccine rate that is very low in Ravalli County, having achieved the current rate for the Covid vaccine is “pretty good.”
Despite a solid outlook, Ravalli County Public Health is ready for more outreach. They have initiated a project whereby County Public Health staff will come to any place of business, with their Mobile Vaccine Clinic, from Monday through Thursday, offering both Pfizer and Janssen (Johnson and Johnson) vaccines. The Pfizer is a two-dose vaccine, requiring the second shot 21 days following the first. Public Health began by making these offers to businesses in the north valley, and have moved through the rosters to make offers to businesses in Darby. As of early last week, only two businesses had taken up the offer.
Also of note, the Centers for Disease Control has determined that the Pfizer vaccine is safe for children 12 and over, and the agency encourages children to receive it. “Although fewer children have been sick with COVID-19 compared to adults, children can be infected with the virus that causes COVID-19, can get sick from COVID-19, and can spread the virus that causes COVID-19 to others. Getting your child vaccinated helps to protect your child and your family.” According to the CDC website, “children may have some side effects after COVID-19 vaccination. These side effects may affect their ability to do daily activities, but they should go away in a few days.” At present time, only the Pfizer vaccine is available to children.
The Covid vaccine is available in multiple locations in and around Hamilton, including Ravalli County Public Health, Sapphire Community Health, Marcus Daly Memorial Hospital, Bitterroot Drug and Walgreens.
The Ravalli County Public Health department can be reached at: 406-375-6672.