COVID-19

While it is no longer considered an active pandemic, COVID-19 is still a highly contagious, dangerous respiratory pathogen that circulates within our communities. The COVID-19 vaccine is safe and effective at reducing spread and preventing adverse health outcomes. 

Mercer County Health Department is currently administering the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccines for initial doses and booster doses. Full vaccination status is considered 2+ doses of the vaccine. The vaccine is regularly updated to best protect against emerging strains of the virus. Please call 419-586-3251, Option 2, to ask questions or schedule an appointment.

COVID-19 Vaccine Form

As of 10/1/2025, COVID-19 is no longer considered a reportable infectious disease, with the exception of hospitalized cases. 

Latest Official Recommendations

Current federal guidance on the COVID-19 vaccine is evolving. According to the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) as of September 19, 2025, the COVID-19 vaccine is recommended for individuals 6 months of age and older following consultation with a healthcare provider, in support of shared clinical decision-making, pending approval and adoption by a future CDC Director.

This recommendation indicates that the COVID-19 vaccine should appear on CDC/ACIP immunization schedules, ensuring continued no-cost coverage of COVID-19 vaccines for all children, regardless of insurance status. Adults with private insurance, Medicare, or Medicaid will also remain covered. Trade groups representing insurance companies have stated that their members plan to continue covering the vaccine, even though it is no longer required in all cases under current CDC recommendations. It remains unclear how broadly individual insurers will continue to provide this coverage.

However, the FDA has only approved the COVID-19 vaccine for people in high-risk groups, including people over 65 years of age and children and adults with underlying conditions that may put them at increased risk of severe illness. Underlying conditions are self-reported and do not require supporting documentation. According to the CDC, the conditions that put someone at a higher risk of severe COVID-19 include:

Major medical groups such as the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, and independent expert groups like the Vaccine Integrity Project have recently issued their own scientific assessments and guidelines. Those groups all continue to recommend the shots for all pregnant women and young children, who are as likely to get seriously ill from COVID-19 as adults.

Precautions against respiratory diseases:

To help prevent infection and reduce the spread of COVID-19, the following standard respiratory disease precautions are recommended:

• Wash hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Avoid touching the eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid close contact with individuals who are ill.
• Stay home when experiencing symptoms of illness and limit contact with others.
• Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or the inside of your elbow.
• Maintain a healthy lifestyle, including adequate rest and a balanced diet, to support immune function.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces regularly.
• Avoid crowded indoor environments when possible.
• Wear a well-fitting mask in indoor public settings, particularly when respiratory viruses are circulating in the community.

Visit CDC Coronavirus Disease 2019 & ODH COVID-19 for more information.