Protect Yourself and Others:
NYC is still experiencing a surge in COVID-19 cases. These are the five most important steps you can take to protect yourself and your City:

• Get vaccinated and get your booster dose: 

Data from the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene shows that the COVID-19 vaccines work, particularly to prevent severe disease. If you’re vaccinated, you’re far less likely to land in the hospital. Learn more.

New Yorkers who get their first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine at a participating site can receive $100. Those who receive the COVID-19 booster by December 31st at a NYC-run vaccination site, are also eligible to receive $100. Vaccines and incentives are available to anyone 5 and older.

Visit nyc.gov/vaccinefinder to find a vaccination site near you. If you are interested in receiving the incentive, look for locations that include "$100 incentive available" in the listing.

• Wear a good quality mask, especially in closed places. Also, consider upgrading to an N95 or KN95 mask for more protection.

• Get tested immediately if you show symptoms, and before traveling or meeting with other people. Learn more and find a testing location near you. 

• Ventilation is key if you are going to meet with other people.

• Elderly adults and other people at greater risk of contracting COVID-19 should avoid optional activities at least for the next few weeks.

Stay Safe this New Year's Eve:
Help prevent the spread of COVID-19 this New Year's Eve with these tips:

• Avoid large indoor gatherings

• Move activities and gatherings outdoors

• Wear a mask during indoor and outdoor celebrations

• Consider staying home and celebrating virtually if you are at increased risk for COVID-19 or if you are not fully vaccinated

Learn more.

For Children Ages 5-11:
In NYC, we're seeing a sharp increase in hospitalizations among children with COVID-19. Parents should get their children vaccinated to keep them protected this winter. Vaccines are safe, effective, and free! Learn more and find a location near you.

Children ages 5 to 11 are now required to have proof of vaccination for public indoor activities, such as:

• Indoor dining at restaurants and coffee shops

• Taking classes at dance studios

• Visiting museums, aquariums, and movie theaters

Learn more

COVID-19 Treatment:
The FDA recently authorized two antiviral pills to treat people with COVID-19. Both antiviral pills are currently only available to people who have tested positive and are at the highest risk for severe illness from COVID-19. If you think you may eligible for these treatments, talk to your health care provider or call 212-COVID19 (212-268-4319).

Monoclonal antibody treatment is also available for people who have COVID-19, have felt mild to moderate symptoms for 10 days or less, and are at a higher risk for severe illness. Learn more about treatments for COVID-19.

Message from the FDNY:
Ambulances do not provide testing for COVID-19, and patients are not transported to a hospital to be tested upon request. Transport decisions are made based on medical needs. Please only call 911 during a real emergency. For non-emergencies, call 311. For coronavirus information, visit http://nyc.gov/coronavirus and text COVID to 692-692 for updates.

Update from the VA New York Harbor Healthcare System:
Due to the rise in the omicron variant of COVID, the VA New York Harbor Healthcare System is temporarily suspending all visitation to our facilities, with the exception of visitation for patients imminently dying.

Effective January 3rd through January 14th, there will be a pause on all non-urgent procedures and in-person clinic visits at NY Harbor due to rising cases of COVID in our area. 

For more information, please contact your providers.

• Episode 1: Stories of the Black Veteran Experience Across Generations 
• Episode 2: Black Post 9/11 Veterans 
• Episode 3: Black Woman. Veteran. (In that Order)