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John,
COVID cases are surging across the country right now, and there are multiple ways we can protect ourselves and our communities.
Remember: COVID is an airborne virus, which is spread by people's breath. That’s why well-fitting masks provide important protection.
People can be contagious without having symptoms, so testing regularly also helps prevent spread.
You can now order 4 or more COVID tests for free at https://special.usps.com/testkits.
There are also updated COVID vaccines available:
Updated Pfizer and Moderna vaccines are now available for children and adults at healthcare providers and pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens.
And you can find a newer vaccine called Novovax at Costco and CVS locations around the country.
Call your local pharmacy to see which updated vaccines they have available. If you need help, you can call 1-800-232-0233.
Vaccines will likely be free for people with health insurance. If you do not have health insurance, or if your insurance provider doesn't fully cover vaccines, you can get free vaccines at locations participating in the Center for Disease Control’s (CDC) Bridge Access Program.
Staying up-to-date with the latest vaccines helps to lower the chances of infection, as the virus continues to shift into new variants. If you get infected, being vaccinated can also reduce symptoms and protect you from some of the virus’s worst effects.
However, vaccinated people can still spread COVID and develop disabling conditions known as long COVID. That's why it's important to use multiple methods to keep ourselves and our communities safe.
Gathering outdoors is another way to reduce risk. When indoors, we can reduce the amount of time the virus stays in the air by filtering or ventilating indoor air (including by opening windows and using air purifiers).
If you do test positive for COVID, you can reduce the risk of developing long COVID by resting as much as possible and checking with your healthcare provider about getting a prescription for Paxlovid.
You may also be able to see a medical provider about COVID for free at https://www.test2treat.org.
I hope you and your loved ones can stay as safe and healthy as possible this winter. Community care is part of how we build a better and more just world.
-Rashida
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