Residents reminded to stay on track with vaccines

Lorain County Public Health is reminding residents that as the world waits for a novel coronavirus vaccine, all should remember the many safe, effective present-day vaccines.

These vaccines protect children and the community against dangerous and sometimes deadly diseases, according to a news release from Lorain County Public Health.

The state’s stay-home-order helped to keep residents safe from COVID-19, the release said.

The order also resulted in babies and children falling behind on primary vaccines.

Declines in vaccine coverage levels can leave children and communities at risk, according to the release.

Herd immunity may be too low to provide protection to those not completely vaccinated.

Lorain County Public Health can safely vaccinate babies, children, teens and adults, the release said.

The health department provides vaccines at 9880 S. Murray Ridge Road in Elyria.

Appointments are preferred to limit the number of clients in the spacious waiting room.

To make an appointment and to have your questions answered, call 440-2843206.

All staff are required to wear masks, and masks are available for clients if they choose to wear one.

Getting routine vaccines during the pandemic is critical, according to the release.

Children ages 24 months or younger, pregnant women, seniors and people with chronic diseases especially need the protection vaccines provide, the release said.

“Parents are understandably nervous about taking children out during the pandemic,” said Dave Covell, health commissioner at Lorain County Public Health. “We encourage parents to keep vaccine appointments.

“Vaccines protect children from other dangerous diseases like measles and whooping cough (pertussis).”

The health department participates in the Vaccines for Children (VFC) Program, which provides vaccines to children who qualify.

No child in the program is denied vaccine for inability to pay, the release said.

Remember to bring vaccine record(s) if available, photo identification, insurance card and cash, check or Visa/MasterCard.

A parent or guardian must accompany children younger than ages 18.