March ’22 COVID Update and Resources: Omicron, Boosters, and Long Covid

For many of us, mid-March will mark the two-year anniversary since most of the country shut down in the early stages of the pandemic. Living through the last two years has been heartbreaking, infuriating, exhausting, confusing, and frightening. While the pandemic is not yet over, we are learning more about the virus and adding more medical tools to our arsenal in our fight against the coronavirus.

Here’s some of the latest information and research:

• It appears the worst of the omicron wave has peaked in Minnesota, with case rates continuing to fall.
• One of the most effective ways you can reduce your likelihood of contracting a severe case of COVID is to get vaccinated AND boosted. Some very encouraging news is coming out in terms of vaccination helping to protect against Long COVID and that vaccine protection against severe disease and death is likely long-term with boosters.
• Booster shots are available and recommended for all Minnesotans 12 and up. The Minnesota Department of Health has a one-stop shop for booster shot information available online.
• Researchers are continuing to learn more about vaccine effectiveness in children.
• The Mayo Clinic has launched an online discussion and support group for people recovering from COVID-19 and/or impacted by Long COVID.