COVID-19 cases are rising again in many parts of the Hudson Valley, including Ulster County. In fact, this week’s active caseload has been higher than the county’s rate one year ago, just before it experienced the worst spike, and associated death rate, in the entire pandemic.

When asked whether Ulster County was planning to address this spike in cases, the Pat Ryan administration issued a press release in response. “If you look at what happened last year between mid-November and early December 2020, we saw a 378 percent increase in active cases,” the county executive stated. “We’re at a similar moment now in 2021, where we’re starting to see a slow build of another possible wave. The decisions we make and the precautions we take in the next week or two really will be determinative of whether we have another big spike or whether we can keep things at a relative plateau.

“Our goal is to not repeat what happened last year during the winter,” Ryan continued. “Our Ulster County Department of Health has administered 5,676 booster doses as of [Nov. 16], and I encourage all residents who are eligible, which is basically anyone over the age of 18 who completed the vaccine series at least six months ago, to get the COVID-19 booster.”

On Wednesday, Gov. Kathy Hochul stated via Twitter, “COVID numbers are on the rise in regions across the state, including western New York & the Finger Lakes. We know what needs to be done: more shots in arms, boosters for everyone at risk, and common-sense social distancing & masking measures. Let's move forward, not back.”

The county Department of Health will run two COVID-19 vaccination sites next week, ahead of the holidays, at the former Hudson Valley Mall Best Buy (1300 Ulster Ave., Kingston). On Monday, Nov. 22, shots will be available from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., for first, second, additional and booster doses of the Pfizer, Moderna, and Johnson & Johnson vaccines. On Tuesday, Nov. 23, pediatric vaccinations will be given at Best Buy from 3 to 7 p.m. to administer doses of the Pfizer vaccine to 5- to 11-year-olds.

According to the county, roughly 120,500 Ulster County residents are fully vaccinated. Pfizer and Moderna boosters are recommended for people who received a second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine at least six months ago and are: 65 years and older; 18 and older who live in a long-term care setting; 18 and older who have underlying medical conditions; 18 and older who work or live in high-risk settings, like essential, public-facing workers. A Johnson & Johnson booster is recommended for anyone 18 and older who is two or more months from having received the vaccine.

While people who received a Pfizer or Moderna vaccine should opt to receive a booster of the same brand, you can get a booster of a different brand if your original brand is not available. Consult with your doctor to determine which COVID-19 booster is best for you.

The county recommends scheduling an appointment for your booster, as walk-ins will be accommodated as capacity allows. Minors must be accompanied by a legal guardian. For more information, visit vaccinateulster.com.