Coronavirus

Reinfection is the main concern for the BA.5 subvariant of Omicron. BA.5 can avoid vaccines but also immunities from past infections. Studies show people who have had COVID-19 twice are at a higher risk for complications and hospitalization.

Health officials said the best protection against severe illness is vaccines and booster shots.

Cooper is vaccinated and has received two booster shots, a news release stated.

The doses for this age group are much smaller than those for other age groups.

Only about 4% of N.C. children 5 to 11 years old are fully vaccinated, and of those about 5% have gotten a booster.

There are safety measures the health department suggests residents follow.