Hi, I’m Dr. Nilesh Kalyanaraman, the health officer for Anne Arundel County. Welcome to our Weekly Health Update. The COVID vaccines are safe and effective, and they’re our path out of this pandemic.

How are we doing with vaccinations?
Last week, the Maryland Department of Health updated their data, giving us a more complete picture of vaccinations in the state. 75% of all people in the county have gotten two doses of vaccine, the third-highest rate in the state. That’s great news. We’ve still got a ways to go with 5 to 11-year-olds who are only 42% fully vaccinated, so let’s keep getting our kids vaccinated.

COVID’s getting better, do I still need the vaccine?
The  COVID vaccine prevents you from severe illness if you get infected. Every day doctors, nurses and pharmacists give vaccines to prevent illnesses like tetanus, pneumonia and measles. Vaccines work best when you get them before there’s a surge. It’s never too late to get your shot or a booster. Check out aacounty.org/covidvax for locations near you.

How can I get my  COVID vaccine record?
The Maryland Department of Health uses MyIR which provides documentation of your  COVID vaccine as a PDF or as a QR code on your smartphone. You can get you and your children’s records at myirmobile.com

 Stay safe and be kind to yourself and others. We’ll see you next week.