minhhs 03-07-22 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

Commissioner Allan remarked that while we don't know exactly what to expect for the future of COVID, that at this time, there are no significant variants of concern and that we are possibly entering an endemic stage of the disease. Commissioner Allan referenced the new CDC risk-based tool that rates COVID risk by county. According to the tool, Cuyahoga County has a low risk of transmission. Accordingly, the guidance advises that the general population test if symptomatic and stay up to date on vaccinations. As of today, CCBH changed its mask policy to make masks optional and will adjust if conditions change. Overall, Commissioner Allan stated that we are moving in right direction, and he feels more positive about where we are headed. CCBH's focus moving forward will be to encourage boosters and vaccinations, particularly among kids, teens, and pregnant women. Additionally, CCBH is continuing its weekly calls with hospitals, schools, safety forces and the governor's office. It will also be gathering data about what worked and what didn't work during the pandemic response. He provided statistics on the work accomplished by CCBH during the pandemic such as distributing supplies, vaccines, tests, and support services, among other efforts. Commissioner Allan asked city officials to help to spread the word about the importance of vaccinations and boosters, noting that they are easily accessible everywhere. He clarified the meanings of"fully vaccinated" and "up-to-date." Fully vaccinated means two does of an MRNA vaccine or one dose of Johnson & Johnson. Up-to-date means fully vaccinated plus a booster. He emphasized that the top priority at this time is to increase vaccination among kids, teens, pregnant women, underserved communities and to promote boosters. Commissioner Allan referenced a statistic published by the Commonwealth Fund which stated that the vaccine campaign saved 1.1 million lives. He spoke about the importance of making COVID vaccines part of the normal vaccination cycle and relayed the CDC advice that boosters are important even for those who have recovered from COVID. In response to a question on additional booster shots, Commissioner Allan stated that there is no advice for the general population. He recommended that high risk individuals speak with their health care providers on this topic. In response to a question, Commissioner Allan explained that the expiration dates on COVID tests have been extended. He acknowledged that some vaccine would expire due to the surplus out there. He advocated for using existing networks to distribute vaccine to the world. In response to a question, Commissioner Allan discussed the succession plan for the transition to a new commissioner Commissioner Allan explained that he informed the Board of his intention to step down in June 2021 and a national search was conducted. After many strong candidates were considered, the Board selected Dr. Roderick Harris as the new commissioner. Commissioner Allan discussed Dr. 2