Third COVID-19 vaccine option offered by Public Health

MT. PLEASANT — The recently approved Novavax COVID-19 vaccine is now available at Henry County Public Health.

Novavax is an option in addition to the Moderna and Pfizer vaccines.

It is authorized for people 18-years and older.

The vaccine is a two dose primary series given three to eight weeks apart, and is not authorized to be used as a booster, at this time.

According to Public Health, the main difference between the older vaccines and Novavax is that Novavax is not a mRNA vaccine.

Novavax uses protein sub-unit vaccine technology, similar to the hepatitis B, HPV, and shingles vaccines, therefore, the Novavax vaccine is a type of vaccine that has been widely used for decades.

Public Health offers this new vaccine to ease concerns for those worried about the mRNA vaccines being developed so quickly.

The Novavax vaccine also offers an option to people who may have an allergic reaction to mRNA vaccines.

“We continue to strongly urge everyone who is eligible and has not yet been vaccinated against COVID-19 to get vaccinated as soon as possible to protect themselves and their loved ones,” said Shelley Van Dorin, Public Health Director. “Anyone with questions about the vaccines should speak with their physician or give us a call and talk to one of our nurses.”

Henry County Public Health is currently giving COVID-19 vaccines on Thursdays from 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m., but that schedule may change in September.

To view current clinic dates please visit HealthyHenryCounty.org/covid, call 319-385-0779, or follow Facebook.com/HealthyHenryCounty.

There is no cost for any of the COVID-19 vaccines.

Contact: Shelley Van Dorin, Public Health Director (319) 385-0779 publichealth@henrycountyiowa.us