Health Department

Mission

To Protect and Promote Health Through Prevention and Control of Disease and Injury.

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Fall 2025 COVID-19 Vaccine Update 

Updated 2025-2026 COVID-19 vaccines are now available in North Carolina.
The CDC has updated its child and adult immunization schedules to support individual, provider-based decision-making for people ages 6 months and older. Getting vaccinated remains the best way to reduce your risk of severe illness, hospitalization, and long-term complications from COVID-19.

Key Updates for the Public:

  • Most pharmacies and clinics now have the updated vaccine.
  • Adults 65 and older can get vaccinated at pharmacies without a prescription.
  • Adults 18–64 with certain health conditions can also get vaccinated at pharmacies without a prescription, under the NCDHHS standing order.
  • Anyone ages 7 to 17 can also come into a pharmacy and obtain a vaccine without a prescription—with parental or guardian consent and the shared decision-making with a pharmacist.
  • Parents or caregivers of children under age 7 should consult with their pediatrician or health care provider.
  • Always call ahead to confirm vaccine availability and whether an appointment is needed.
  • Bring your insurance care if you have one.
  • If you're uninsured or under-insured, your local health department or community clinic may be able to vaccinate you at low or no cost.

Talk with your healthcare provider about the best options for you and your family.

For more information, visit:

Health Director's Message

Public Health's mission is to protect and promote health. This is accomplished through the prevention of disease and injury and the promotion of good health habits, to ensure a longer, healthier life. Striving to meet these challenges, the Health Department offers a wide range of services that are critical to the well-being of our community. These diverse programs include those mandated by the State; such as communicable disease, public health planning, preparedness and response, environmental health, and vital records. Other programs include a combination of direct healthcare services and community-wide programs. In addition, Health Department staff play a prominent role in partnering with the community to create innovative programs to address specific health problems, such as breast cancer awareness, childhood immunizations, injury prevention, and dental care.

Today, there are many challenges facing the health status of our community including cardiovascular disease, cancer, obesity, maternal & child health, communicable disease, vector-borne disease, safe food and water, and dental care, as well as biological, chemical, and radiological terrorism.

More than ever, it is the people…you…who can help keep our communities and our children safe and healthy. Every citizen has a responsibility to become informed and involved in ensuring a healthy future for themselves, their family, and their community.

Matthew Garner, MPA 

Health Director