PAGE 11 / AUGUST 2022
COVID-19 UPDATE COVID-19 UPDATE
The BA.5 variant is now the most dominant strain of
COVID-19 in the country, according to the Centers for
Disease Control and Prevention. And while it's hard to
get an exact count — given how many people are
taking rapid tests at home — there are indications
that both reinfections and hospitalizations are
increasing. For people who are
immunocompromised this is especially concerning. If
you or someone you love or spend time with is
immunocompromised, it is important to have a
COVID-19 plan to protect yourself from infection and
prepare for what to do if you get sick. Your plan
should include:
How to Protect Yourself
• Stay up to date on COVID-19 vaccinations.
• Talk with your healthcare provider about COVID-19
pre-exposure prophylaxis (preventive medications).
• Take extra precautions, including wearing a mask,
avoiding poorly ventilated or crowded indoor
settings, and washing your hands often.
What you can do now to prepare
• Know the symptoms of COVID-19.
• Learn how to check your COVID-19 Community Level.
• Know how to get tested as soon as possible.
• Know how to reach a healthcare provider right
away.
• Have an updated list of all your current medications.
What to do if you were exposed to COVID-19
• Determine if you should stay home.
• Monitor your health for COVID-19 symptoms and get
tested at least 5 days after exposure.
• Wear a well-fitting mask for 10 full days any time
you are around others.
What to do if you have COVID-19 symptoms
• Stay home.
• Get tested right away. Use a self-test at home or
find a testing location near you.
What to do if you test positive for COVID-19
• Contact your healthcare provider, health
department, or Community Health Center to learn
about treatment options.
• Check if a Test to Treat location is in your community.
• Isolate until it's safe to be around others.
• Monitor your symptoms. If you notice emergency
warning signs, call 911 or call ahead to your local
emergency facility.
Learn How to Get Treatment Quickly
If you test positive for COVID-19, oral antiviral and
monoclonal antibody treatments are available for
people who are more likely to get very sick. Learn
more about COVID-19 treatment.
Don't delay. Treatment must be started right away to
be effective. Talk to your healthcare provider about
what treatment options are best for you.
Share your COVID-19 plan with your family, friends,
and healthcare providers so they can support your
prevention and preparation steps.
LEARN MORE