COLORADO SPRINGS — With so much information being announced daily about the COVID-19 pandemic, here is a review and preview of what is going on in Southern Colorado as it pertains to the virus.
The Review
The most significant development last was the retirement of the state health department's COVID-19 dial.The change allows for more local control over capacity limits moving forward. Most counties made no changes while others have adjusted their health orders, depending on their number of positive. All of this is subject to change based on statewide conditions.
But as the dial goes away, we are seeing another rise in cases across the state and hospitalizations. Governor Jared Polis and state health leaders urging everyone to remain vigilant, get vaccinated, wear masks, and maintain social distancing.
The new federal vaccination site at the Colorado State Fairgrounds in Pueblo got underway on Wednesday with more than 100 Fort Carson soldiers helping out. Other members of the same unit from the Mountain Post returned from California after assisting in the public vaccination effort in Los Angeles.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention alongside the Food & Drug Administration paused the distribution of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine after at least six women reported getting blood clots. One person died. Keep in mind, that is from more than seven million doses distributed. It will be at least another week before that pause may end.
We also heard from the CEO of Pfizer that a third booster shot of the vaccine may be required in a year. The company continues doing research to see how long the current two-shot vaccine remains effective.
And an investigation is underway, involving the Dr. Moma clinic in Colorado Springs which was shut down after it vaccinated thousands of people. The state health department says the vaccinations are invalid for improper handling of the vaccine. The clinic is questioning the investigation and will reportedly address reporters today.
The Preview
Looking ahead this week on News5, we're talking about how to self-schedule your COVID-19 vaccine appointment. Ira Cronin is walking us through the process as more vaccine becomes available and everyone over 16 years old is eligible for vaccination.
News5 Investigates Eric Ross is checking on lost vaccine cards, including what can happen if you lose yours, the steps to take to protect your information, and the latest on the Dr. Moma clinic investigation.
Also ahead this week, there are a lot of email scams and phishing attacks, more so than usual right now. Patrick Nelson is giving us tips to keep our businesses and personal accounts safe.
Downtown Colorado Springs will see the ribbon-cutting for the brand new soccer complex for the Switchbacks FC at Weidner Field on Friday.
With The Rebound Colorado, News5's team will be here to answer your questions, bringing you expert advice to balance the books, pay the bills, and rebuild savings accounts. E-mail us any time at rebound@koaa.com with your suggestions, feedback, frustrations, ideas, suggestions, and anything else you need.
The Rebound Colorado
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