ITHACA, N.Y. (WHCU) — COVID-19 vaccines and boosters will still be available in Tompkins County. 

Whole Health Commissioner Frank Kruppa says even though federal emergency declarations ended Thursday, the virus is here to stay. That means some pandemic-era moves are changing.

The CDC will no longer maintain their “community level” metrics and insurance companies no longer need to provide COVID-19 testing for free.

Cortland County Public Health Director Nicole Anjeski says the public should still stay up to date on COVID-19 vaccines and stay away from anyone with symptoms of the virus.

Kruppa says the Bivalent booster, which can be given to anyone six months and older, will still be available at local pharmacies.