Regular immunizations decline during the pandemic

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – An initiative called Raise Your Guard is urging people to get their families back on track with scheduled vaccinations. 

Health officials want to remind people that it’s important to stay up to date as immunization numbers have dropped during the pandemic. 

“There are many diseases that we need to be aware of. Especially as we approach flu season again. We don’t know what the dynamic is gonna be yet when we mix in the COVID-19 situation,” said Gary McGuffey, pharmacist at Ely Drugs of Bowling Green. 

McGuffey has noted a decline in the number of people coming in to get regular vaccinations. 

“I think it was the general apprehension of going anywhere. The unknown of you know is this a place where I can contract the virus, a place where I could come across germs I’m not ready to come across,” said McGuffey.

It’s important to stay up on regular vaccinations to stay healthy and protect your immune system from disease. 

Kristin Appling, shot room practice manager at Graves Gilbert Clinic wants people to know that it’s safe to come in. 

“Definitely come in. We’re taking precautions here, we have staff that’s always here cleaning. Everyone’s required to wear a mask. At the registration desk you’re required to stand 6 feet apart so we’re doing our best to comply with the COVID-19 measures, so it’s definitely safe to come in,” said Appling.

Even though there is no vaccine for COVID-19 yet, getting regular vaccines can help prevent you from getting other diseases, especially if you are immuno-compromised.