Updated COVID-19 booster restores immunity and protects against Omicron variants available to the Upstate

GREENVILLE, SC, April 25, 2023 — With support from the American Heart Association and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, community organizations are offering free COVID-19 bivalent booster vaccines at one local upcoming event.

COVID-19 immunity doesn’t last forever; the updated vaccine is necessary to restore protection. The new bivalent booster helps prevent serious illness from the Omicron variants and the original COVID-19 strain. COVID-19 vaccines are effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death.

Eligible individuals include anyone 12 and older who received their last COVID-19 booster prior to September 2022 and prior to October for young children. The bivalent vaccine should be a priority for anyone with a chronic health condition, who is over the age of 50 or anyone who is pregnant.

People with cardiovascular risk factors, heart disease, and heart attack and stroke survivors should get vaccinated because they are at much greater risk from the virus than they are from the vaccine, according to leaders of the American Heart Association. The AHA urges people with medical conditions to discuss vaccination with their health care team. Event registration is not required, and walk-ins are welcome.

Event Date and Location

Saturday, May 20, 1 p.m. - 5 p.m.

Unity Park

320 S. Hudson Street, Greenville, SC 29601

Vaccine locations can also be found at www.vaccines.gov/.

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About the American Heart Association

The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. We are dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations, and powered by millions of volunteers, we fund innovative research, advocate for the public’s health and share lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based organization has been a leading source of health information for nearly a century. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, Twitter or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.  

For Media Inquiries:

Mattie Lee, Communications Director

Email: Mattie.lee@heart.org

For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)

heart.org and stroke.org