Prepare now to prevent, test and treat COVID-19
11/14/2022
COVID-19 continues to evolve and spread. As the weather turns colder and people spend more time indoors, the combined impact of COVID-19, influenza and other respiratory illnesses such as RSV could be significant. Fortunately, Ohio is in a much better position than it was in the early days of COVID-19. There are more tools than ever to help prevent serious illness, including safe and effective COVID-19 vaccines, rapid testing and lifesaving treatments for people who are more vulnerable to serious outcomes. The Ohio Department of Health encourages Ohioans to take steps now to be prepared.
To prevent serious illness, updated booster doses are recommended for people ages 5 years and older at least two months after completion of the primary vaccine series or an original booster dose. Ohioans can check booster eligibility at gettheshot.coronavirus.ohio.gov. Other steps for prevention include masking when appropriate, frequent hand-washing and staying home when sick.
Ohioans should make sure they have access to rapid COVID-19 tests so they can quickly take the appropriate steps to protect themselves and prevent spread to others. Keep a supply of tests on hand in the home or know where to find testing through a local health care provider. Plan now on how to isolate and prevent spread in the home, just in case.
Ohioans should test promptly if:
Treatment with lifesaving medications is available. A Test to Treat location can test patients and immediately administer treatment. People also may talk to their doctor about prescription treatments for COVID-19. Treatment options include prescription at-home pills or IV infusions or injections. Timing is critical. To be effective, most of these treatments must begin very quickly after symptoms appear.
For more information about COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses, visit the Ohio Department of Health website. The COVID-19 call center can answer questions about COVID-19 at 1-833-4-ASK-ODH (1-833-427-5934).