CCHHS Urges Precautions as COVID-19 Variants Result in Increased Community Transmission

Coconino County is experiencing an increase in COVID-19 cases due to the Omicron variant.

If attending an indoor, in-person gathering, masks should be worn.   

As COVID-19 transmission increases, Coconino County Health and Human Services (CCHHS) advises evaluating the need for large gatherings and postponing in-person meetings/gatherings/events, when possible, until community transmission declines.

CCHHS recommends the following precautions to minimize COVID-19 risk, keep children in school, and our economy open:  

• Stay home if you are sick.  
• Get vaccinated against COVID-19 if you’re eligible. 
• Get a COVID-19 booster if you’re eligible. 
• Wear well-fitting masks over your nose and mouth if you are in public indoor settings. 
• Wash hands frequently. 
• Avoid crowded, poorly ventilated indoor spaces. 
• Conduct meetings and gatherings virtually when possible. 

“We have the tools to fight COVID-19 variants. The best protection against the illness is to get vaccinated and boosted,” CCHHS Director Kim Musselman said. “The COVID-19 vaccines continue to be remarkably effective in reducing risk of severe disease, hospitalization, and death.”   

"We encourage Coconino County staff and all residents to consider what is essential right now. If you can skip an indoor in-person gathering, you should. Instead, consider the virtual options we have available to us to connect with coworkers, friends, and family.” said Coconino County Board of Supervisors Chair Matt Ryan. 

COVID-19 booster doses offer additional protection against the virus, as immunity from COVID-19 vaccines wane over time. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently authorized a single booster dose of the Pfizer mRNA vaccine for children ages 12 -17. The CDC also updated guidance for the timing of the Pfizer booster dose, allowing individuals 12 years and older who have completed their initial Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine series, to receive a booster shot at least five months after completing their initial vaccine series. Moderna booster doses are available six months following the initial vaccination series. 

Booster doses of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine were previously approved by the CDC for all adults 18 years and older at least two months after their initial dose.  

Individuals should bring their COVID-19 vaccination card with them when they receive their booster dose. COVID-19 vaccines are provided at no cost.  

To find a vaccination location, please visit https://www.coconino.az.gov/2580/COVID-19-Vaccination-Locations.