Press Release Per the State of Maryland:
Nearly 1.4 Million Marylanders Now Eligible for a Booster, Can ‘Mix and Match’ Doses
New Portal To Help Determine Eligibility, Additional Outreach Efforts Underway
515,000 Maryland Children To Become Eligible To Get Pfizer COVID-19 Vaccine In Coming Weeks
ANNAPOLIS, MD—Following final CDC approval, Governor Larry Hogan today (Monday) announced the updated status of COVID-19 booster shot eligibility in the State of Maryland and the opportunity to mix and match vaccines. State health officials are strongly recommending that anyone with an underlying health condition or comorbidity get a booster shot as soon as possible.
“From day one of this crisis, our focus has always been on preventing hospitalizations and deaths, and these vaccines have all proven to be extremely effective at this,” said Governor Hogan. “However, the data we now have clearly does show that the level of protection does begin to wane over time, beginning after five or six months, especially for those who are immunocompromised, have comorbidities, and are most vulnerable. State health officials have issued an advisory strongly urging people with comorbidities to get a booster dose as soon as possible.”
Watch today’s press conference.
View the slides from today’s press conference.
Guidance on COVID-19 Booster Eligibility. Nearly 1.4 million Marylanders who fall into the following categories are currently eligible for a COVID-19 booster shot:
Mix and Match. At the recommendation of both the FDA and CDC, eligible Marylanders can choose any vaccine as a booster shot, even if it is different from what they initially received.
Eligible Marylanders with Comorbidities Urged to Get Booster Immediately. With data showing an increase in the share of post-vaccination infections and deaths since May—the vast majority of which are linked to underlying conditions and comorbidities—state health officials have issued an advisory strongly urging people with comorbidities to get a booster dose as soon as possible.
More than half of the state’s COVID-19 deaths over the last month are linked to hypertension and diabetes. Cancer, obesity, and chronic lung disease are other leading comorbidities among COVID-19 deaths in Maryland. A full list of comorbidities and underlying medical conditions associated with higher risk of severe COVID-19 is available here.
COVID-19 Booster Outreach Operation and New Eligibility Portal. The State of Maryland has administered approximately 280,000 COVID-19 booster shots, and a vigorous outreach effort is underway for all Marylanders who are newly eligible.
- To help Marylanders determine their eligibility for a COVID-19 booster, state health officials have launched a new portal on covidvax.maryland.gov where residents can enter their information and learn next steps.
- The statewide call center continues to proactively contact all eligible Marylanders. More than 100,000 appointments for booster shots have already been scheduled.
- Marylanders can visit covidvax.maryland.gov to find locations where boosters are available.
Next Steps on Vaccinating 5- to 11-Year-Olds. CDC authorization is anticipated as early as next week for 5- to 11-year-olds, which would make approximately 515,000 Maryland children immediately eligible for a COVID-19 vaccine. Pfizer submitted data to the federal government showing that its vaccine is safe and 90.7% effective against symptomatic COVID-19 in children.
State health officials have begun placing orders for an initial 180,00 Pfizer doses for 5- to 11-year-olds, working in partnership with pediatricians, pharmacies, school systems, local health departments, and the Vaccine Equity Task
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FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival
Get ready to experience the vibrant colors, tantalizing flavors, and infectious rhythms of the Caribbean at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival! Hosted by RHU LLC, this exciting festival is set to take place on May 18, 2024, at the picturesque 16700 Barnesville Rd in Boyds, MD.
Step into a world where the Caribbean spirit comes alive! From 12:00 PM onwards, immerse yourself in a sensory journey that celebrates the unique culture, cuisine, and music of the Caribbean. Whether you're an African American, a Reggae or Soca music enthusiast, a wine lover, or part of the vibrant Caribbean diaspora, this festival promises to delight and captivate you in every way.
Let the enticing aromas of mouthwatering Caribbean dishes tantalize your taste buds. Feast on traditional delicacies prepared by expert chefs, showcasing the rich and diverse culinary heritage of the Caribbean. Indulge in flavorful jerk chicken, succulent seafood, and delectable plantain dishes that will transport you straight to the islands.
Accompanying the culinary extravaganza is a carefully curated selection of premium wines, ensuring the perfect pairing for your palate. Sip on fine wines from renowned vineyards, each sip a reflection of the Caribbean's vibrant spirit. Discover new flavors, expand your wine knowledge, and savor unforgettable moments with every glass.
As the sun sets, get ready to groove to the infectious rhythms of Caribbean music. Feel the pulsating beats of reggae, soca, dancehall, and calypso, moving your body to the lively melodies. Live performances by talented musicians and performers will keep the energy high, ensuring a night of unforgettable entertainment.
Don't miss this opportunity to embrace the Caribbean spirit and celebrate the arrival of spring in style! Tickets are available on AllEvents, so secure your spot today. Join us at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival, where cultures collide and unforgettable memories are made.
LIVE PERFORMANCES By: CULTURE Feat. Kenyatta Hill, EXCO LEVI, IMAGE BAND, RAS LIDJ REGG'GO with Special Guest SUGAR BEAR FROM E.U. & MORE! & MORE!
MUSIC By: DJ ABLAZE, DJ SMALLY & NAJ SUPREME
2 NIGHT Camping packages available: RV/CAMPER $200 | TENTS $150 Starting on Friday May 17 @ 5pm | 30 RV SPACES | 30+ TENT SPACES
KIDS 12 & UNDER FREE!!!
