EPHRATA — As we transition from the summer wave of COVID-19 into the colder months, the Grant County Health District (GCHD) is reminding residents that COVID-19 is not a seasonal disease.  

Unlike flu viruses that tend to spike during specific seasons, COVID-19 can cause waves of community spread throughout the entire year. As of early September, Grant County has reported the highest percentage of COVID-19-associated hospitalizations since January 2024, highlighting the ongoing threat the virus poses. 

From October 2023 to September 2024, Washington State recorded 1,245 COVID-19-related deaths. Among these, eight were Grant County residents. The majority of these individuals were either elderly or had underlying health conditions. 

"Our hearts go out to the family and friends who have lost their loved ones to COVID-19. The loss of these individuals leaves a heavy and lasting impact on our community," said GCHD Administrator Theresa Adkinson in the Oct. 7 press release.  

During this respiratory virus season, GCHD emphasized the importance of vigilance. Everyone aged six months and older is urged to receive one dose of the updated COVID-19 vaccine, which has been formulated to better protect against the latest strains. The available vaccines include: 

• Moderna: for those ages 6 months and older 
• Pfizer-BioNTech: for those ages 6 months and older 
• Novavax: for individuals aged 12 years and older 

For children ages six months to four years, multiple doses may be necessary to stay up to date with their vaccinations. GCHD also advises those who have recently recovered from COVID-19 to consider delaying their vaccine for three months, unless factors such as personal risk of severe disease or high COVID-19 activity in the area dictate otherwise. 

The updated COVID-19 vaccine is currently available at various pharmacies and clinics across Grant County. Residents can locate vaccination options by visiting vaccines.gov or by contacting their healthcare provider. Many insurance plans cover the cost of the vaccine, and free options are provided for uninsured or underinsured individuals. 

The two GCHD is promoting are the Childhood Vaccine Program which offers free COVID-19 vaccines to everyone 18 years and younger.  Learn more here: https://bit.ly/4etyULI. The second is the Adult Vaccine Program which offers free COVID-19 vaccine to uninsured or underinsured adults who are 19 years or older. Learn more here: https://bit.ly/4h6UPu2. 

As COVID-19 continues to circulate, GCHD encourages all residents to remain proactive in protecting themselves and their families. By getting vaccinated and following public health guidelines, the health district said the community can collectively safeguard people against the ongoing threat of COVID-19. 

For further information, please contact the GCHD at 509-766-7960.