• In Mercer County, cases remain high with around 28 cases per 100,000 residents reported a day, based on the past week’s reports.
  • There have been a number of questions related to the Omicron variant. There is a great deal that is unknown at this time. New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH), like many others, is closely monitoring scientific data and news. We will continue to be vigilant in our own community.
  • The emergence of the Omicron variant underscores the importance of vaccination, boosters, and preventive efforts to protect against COVID-19. CDC recommendations on booster doses are based on the latest data, with the goal of ensuring that people have optimal protection against COVID-19 infection, severe illness, and death.
  • Boosters are recommended  6 months after your initial Pfizer of Moderna series, or two months after your one-dose J&J vaccine. Early data from South Africa suggest increased transmissibility of the Omicron variant, and scientists in the United States and around the world are urgently examining vaccine effectiveness related to this variant. Click to view the full CDC statement.
  • Based on the state’s dashboard, 77 percent of county residents have been vaccinated; another 63 percent have been partially vaccinated.  Booster vaccines are proven safe and effective in protecting you against COVID-19, including any variants. If you’re are eligible to receive it, County Executive Hughes urges you to get a booster.
  • If you have not yet been vaccinated, or need a booster, use the New Jersey vaccine provider search: covid19.nj.gov/pages/vaccine. You can also be vaccinated at any Mercer-operated clinic, which supplies Moderna, Pfizer or J&J vaccine for anyone age 5 and up, and boosters for anyone 18 and older. For a list of upcoming clinics, click here.
  • The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) confirmed that the Omicron variant is in the United States. New Jersey residents who attended the Anime NYC 2021 Convention at the Javits Center in New York City from November 19-21 should get a COVID-19 test as soon as possible, monitor for symptoms and seek medical help if they are sick following news that a Minnesota resident who attended the conference tested positive for the Omicron variant.
  • The NJ Department of Health continues to work on a comprehensive analysis of breakthrough cases. The data thus far show that vaccinated persons continue to have greater protection from the virus and the potential for serious illness, hospitalization, and death.
  • The Division continues to partner with NJDOH to provide information and guidance on the virus as well as any vaccine-related questions. Residents are encouraged to call 1-800-962-1253 (24/7) with any and all questions they may have. For vaccine support, call 1-855-568-0545 (8 a.m.-8 p.m.).
  • Residents should continue to follow CDC guidance on masking, maintain physical distancing, wash your hands regularly, and if you’re sick, stay home and get tested.

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Drew Mumich

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