Chances are you or someone you know has had Covid recently. The JN.1 variant is responsible for a rise in Covid infections. According to the CDC, there is no evidence that this new variant causes more severe disease. While infection rates are rising, hospitalizations and deaths from Covid are lower than last year. Still, it is wise to take precautions to reduce the risk of getting infected.

Protect Yourself and Others

• Get your updated COVID-19 vaccine. The vaccines are readily available at local pharmacies. If you are not sure that you are up to date on your vaccine, check with your medical provider or pharmacist.
• Wear a Mask when Covid rates are high. N95 or KN95 masks are recommended for older adults and others who are at high risk for serious illness. This article from the Mayo Clinic makes sense of your mask options.
• Improve your indoor air quality. It is one of the best ways to prevent spread. This can be as simple as using a portable air cleaner or opening windows (if it’s not too cold out). And if your home thermostat offers a fan option, turn it from AUTO to ON when you have visitors to keep air running continuously.
• Test if you develop respiratory symptoms or are exposed to someone who has COVID-19. This article from The New York Times addresses how to make the most of your at-home test kits.
• What if You Test Positive – Contact your healthcare provider. If you are over 65, ask about Paxlovid. Please stay home for at least 5 days and isolate from others in your home. To track isolation, note that day one is the first full day after you had symptoms, which for some, may not coincide with the day you’ve taken the test. It’s best to stay indoors until you test negative, but if you must go out, wait until after the first five days have passed and wear a mask until after day ten or after two sequential negative tests in 48 hours. Click here to learn more about isolation. As a reminder, members and volunteers who test positive for Covid must refrain from in-person services and programs until testing negative.

NNV Full Members who need help with rides to a vaccine appointment, acquiring Test Kits, or interpreting Test Kit expiration dates, can request volunteer help by calling the office 202-935-6060 or sending an email to info@nnvdc.org. As always, please feel free to contact the office if you have any questions or concerns.