Keeping Safe During Omicron
Season 1, Episode 31, Jan 21, 2021, 08:02 AM
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COVID-19 FAQ: Testing, Immunity, and Masking
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When to test: Get tested if you have COVID-19 symptoms, regardless of vaccination status. Stay home while awaiting results. Contact your PCP if unsure about testing. Fully vaccinated and boosted individuals don't need to quarantine, but should wear a mask for 10 days. - Antigen vs. PCR tests: PCR tests are more accurate, detecting the virus even at low levels, as early as one day post-symptom or a few days post-exposure. Antigen tests require a high viral load for a positive result.
- Immunity after COVID: Most people develop some immunity, but its duration is unknown. Vaccination and boosting are still crucial. Wait to vaccinate until symptoms resolve and isolation criteria are met.
- When to test after exposure: Test five days after exposure or if symptoms appear.
- Testing after vaccination: Get tested if you experience symptoms to protect others.
- Re-testing after positive: No need to re-test for 90 days unless new symptoms appear and no other cause is identified.
- Masking after vaccination: Masks are required indoors due to Omicron's easy spread. Maintain 6 feet distance outdoors.
- Critical care guidelines: Federal guidelines exist for severe COVID-19 care. Oregon hospitals may face staff shortages. OHA provides tools for fair care decisions based on medical evidence, not non-medical status.
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Preventing hospital strain: Get vaccinated and boosted (5+ for vaccines, 12+ for boosters). Stay home if sick, maintain distance, wash hands, and disinfect shared surfaces. Use ER only for emergencies. For testing, call 2-1-1 or visit GetVaccinated.Oregon.gov.
Local Vaccine Events (Jan 22-27):
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Jan 22, 11 AM - 4 PM: Rosewood Initiative, 16126 SE Stark St, Portland, OR - Jan 25, 9 AM - 3 PM: Highland Haven, 7600 NE Glisan St, Portland, OR
- Jan 25, 2 PM - 8 PM: Lloyd Center, 1260 Lloyd Center, Portland, OR
- Jan 27, 8 AM - 2 PM: Lloyd Center, 1260 Lloyd Center, Portland, OR
More events: multco.us/vaccineclinics.
Accessibility: OHA provides information in alternate formats. Contact Health Information Center at 1-971-673-2411, 711 TTY, or COVID19.LanguageAccess@dhsoha.state.or.us.
Accessibility: OHA provides information in alternate formats. Contact Health Information Center at 1-971-673-2411, 711 TTY, or COVID19.LanguageAccess@dhsoha.state.or.us.