Covid-19 News

A Norwegian Cruise Lines (NCL) cruise ship disembarking in New Orleans this weekend has identified 10 COVID-19 cases among its crew members and passengers.

The Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) is reporting its first probable case of the Omicron variant of COVID-19 in Louisiana.

Louisiana residents now have until December 31, 2021 to get their vaccine at a participating community-based site as listed on ShotFor100.com. As of November 29, more than 34,300 debit cards have been distributed through Shot For 100.

People who are vaccinated and eligible for a booster need to use this time to get their boosters. Those who are not vaccinated should get vaccinated.

The Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) is partnering with the Bayou Classic and the National Medical Association to offer free COVID-19 vaccines at Bayou Classic events this Friday, Nov. 26 and Saturday, Nov. 27. Adults and children getting their first shots will receive a $100 Shot for 100 debit card.

The event will also feature activities for the entire family including live music, free food, a photo booth, door prizes and one hour of free play at Quarters.

"With the winter holidays approaching again, we want families to have maximum protection as they celebrate together," said State Health Officer Dr. Joseph Kanter.

All Louisiana children ages 5 to 11 are now eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine, following the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) formal recommendation on Tuesday evening. Prior to this announcement, the Pfizer-BioNTech (Comirnaty) vaccine was recommended and authorized for people ages 12 and older.

The Louisiana Department of Health is currently reviewing the guidance and underlying information, and will provide formal guidance to vaccine providers for children in Louisiana tomorrow.

Community flu and COVID clinics are open to the public, and walk-ups are welcome. Wear short or loose-fitting sleeves and, if you have it, bring your private insurance, Medicaid or Medicare card.