COVID-19 Update 9/20/21
Situation Update
As of September 20, there are 106,979 cases of COVID-19 and 1,155 deaths in Columbus Public Health’s jurisdiction.
Columbus Public Health has administered 111,840 doses of the COVID-19 vaccine.
View the summary report at columbus.gov/coronavirus for up-to-date case and vaccinations numbers. (The report is updated every Monday, Wednesday and Friday.)
COVID-19 Booster Shots
Last week, the FDA recommended COVID-19 booster shots for people 65 and older and other vulnerable populations. The CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices will meet to discuss booster doses later this week.
Upon FDA and CDC approval, booster doses will be available from healthcare providers, retail pharmacies and public health, including Columbus Public Health’s COVID-19 vaccine clinics. At this time, Columbus Public Health will not have a mega clinic or drive through clinic.
Indoor Mask Requirement
Last week, the City Councils of Columbus and Worthington passed laws requiring that everyone 3 years of age and older wears a mask in indoor areas accessible to the public. The mask requirement in Columbus and Worthington will be enforced by Columbus Public Health based on complaints. People can report Columbus and Worthington organizations or businesses allowing unmasked people into their offices or establishments by emailing 311@columbus.gov or calling 614-645-3111.
Flu Shots
It will soon be flu season. Getting a flu shot is more important than ever this year to protect your health and the health of those around you during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. It is safe to get your COVID-19 vaccine and flu shot at the same time. Check with your healthcare provider or learn more here: columbus.gov/flu.
Vax Cash
All remaining Vax Cash cards will be given out to Franklin County residents getting their first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine at the Columbus Public Health COVID-19 vaccine clinic while supplies last. The clinic is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. No appointment needed. Learn more at www.Columbus.gov/c19vax.
COVID-19 Testing
Free COVID-19 testing is available at healthcare providers and pharmacies throughout central Ohio. If you are sick or have been exposed to COVID-19, get tested to protect yourself, your loved ones and the community. Call 614-645-1519 or find a testing location in your area here.
ODH has FREE BinaxNow Home Test Kits. To see if your organization is eligible to serve as a community distribution site, please reference the “Category” dropdown box on this page. Eligible organizations should email TestingRequests@odh.ohio.gov to place the order directly through ODH.
Organizations that are not eligible to order kits directly through ODH, should email COVID-19@columbus.gov to request test kits.
Third Dose Recommended for Immunocompromised People
The CDC recommends a third dose of Pfizer or Moderna vaccine for a specific group of immunocompromised individuals because they are at a higher risk of severe illness from COVID-19. Individuals who qualify for a third dose should first contact their healthcare provider to get vaccinated. Columbus Public Health offers same day, walk-in vaccines from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday-Friday at Columbus Public Health. No appointment needed. See the CDC guidance and who is eligible for a third dose here.
Help Prevent COVID-19!
Please do your part to prevent the spread of COVID-19:
Get the COVID-19 vaccine as soon as you can!
Wear a face covering.
Practice social distancing by staying 6 feet apart from others.
Wash your hands often and use hand sanitizer.
Stay home if you are sick and get tested. Call 614-645-1519 for an appointment.
Avoid large gatherings.
Learn More about COVID-19
Please use only credible and reliable sources for information and updates on COVID-19. See the latest here:
