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"content": "\u003cp>As unbelievable as it might seem, we're now approaching a fourth year of the COVID pandemic.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And while the coronavirus is still very much with us, navigating life with COVID might feel quite different for you in 2023 than it did in previous years.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Perhaps you're facing new, confusing challenges without clear answers. We'd like to assist with that. So:\u003cstrong> What do you need to know?\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>You might be wondering:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>What's the latest on COVID variants, and how worried should I be?\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>When might the next round of COVID boosters be here?\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>What do we know about long COVID and how it's affecting the Bay Area?\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>How can people — especially workers — navigate returning to shared indoor spaces, and what kinds of protections still exist?\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>No matter the topic, share your question with us in the Google Form below. You may see your question featured — and answered — on KQED.org, KQED Public Radio or our social media. We've also left space for you to tell us anything you want to share about how COVID has affected your life. You can stay anonymous if you want to.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScNhCXWDUmb3AeOpu6259r2ivjMlQi8FhfR9Cu_w4pzDAuqaw/viewform?embedded=true\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>We won't be able to respond to every question personally, but what you share with us will help us make our coverage more useful and relevant to you and the people you know. We always appreciate your time and energy in helping us serve our communities.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad fullwidth]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n",
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"content": "\u003cp>Around the holidays, many folks’ thoughts turn to food banks.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>This can be because people particularly need the services that food banks provide at this time of year. It can also stem from a personal desire to donate money or time to these organizations. For some people, it’s about both.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>When people can’t buy the food they need, that’s known as food insecurity. And for many individuals and families, food banks offer a crucial lifeline, offering free food.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Keep reading for where to find your local food bank, how demand for these organizations has persisted through the COVID pandemic, and how best to support a food bank near you.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jump to: \u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>\u003ca href=\"#find\">Where can I find a food bank near me?\u003c/a>\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>\u003ca href=\"#support\">How can I best support my local food bank?\u003c/a>\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003ch2>Demand for food banks rose during the pandemic — and has stayed that way\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>In 2020, San José’s Second Harvest of Silicon Valley had “literally doubled the amount of food we’re distributing” from before the COVID outbreak, \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/forum/2010101880355/food-banks-struggle-to-meet-pandemic-fueled-demand\">CEO Leslie Bacho told KQED Forum in 2020\u003c/a> — and demand was already high.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“We are seeing so many people who are already just living on the edge, having to then burn through their savings,” Bacho said in that 2020 interview. “More than half the people we’re serving now have never sought food assistance before.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>An ongoing housing crisis, continuing gentrification, high cost of living and inflation hitting food prices means Bay Area residents continue to be particularly vulnerable to food insecurity as 2022 draws to a close. But what’s happening here continues to be felt nationwide: According to the most recent numbers from the Department of Agriculture’s Economic Research Service, in 2021 \u003ca href=\"https://www.ers.usda.gov/topics/food-nutrition-assistance/food-security-in-the-u-s/key-statistics-graphics/\">more than 33 million people across the United States were food insecure\u003c/a>. And \u003ca href=\"https://www.npr.org/2022/10/02/1125571699/hunger-poverty-us-dc-food-pantry\">as NPR has reported, “No community is spared\u003c/a>, with rural areas, families with children and communities of color disproportionately affected.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“Coming out of the height of the pandemic with inflation being as sustained and high as it is, \u003ca href=\"https://www.npr.org/2022/10/02/1125571699/hunger-poverty-us-dc-food-pantry\">it’s a hard time for many families\u003c/a>,” Radha Muthiah, CEO of Washington, D.C.’s Capital Area Food Bank, told NPR recently.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Michael Altfest, community engagement and marketing director at the Alameda County Community Food Bank, said that the need for his organization’s services has only risen in 2023. Thirty percent of the calls made to the Alameda County Community Food Bank emergency food line are still coming from first-time callers, he said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“Since 2021, it’s been a pretty sustained need,” said Altfest. “We’re serving far more people now than we were in 2020, and we continue to see new people regularly.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_11847434\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\" style=\"max-width: 1920px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-11847434 size-full\" src=\"https://ww2.kqed.org/app/uploads/sites/10/2020/11/drive-thru-fb.png\" alt=\"Two volunteers load food into a dark red car. One volunteer with long brown hair, a baseball cap, a green shirt and a yellow jacket is holding the door of the car. The other volunteer, wearing a blue shirt with short brown hair, is crouched to lift a heavy-looking box into the car.\" width=\"1920\" height=\"1280\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2020/11/drive-thru-fb.png 1920w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2020/11/drive-thru-fb-800x533.png 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2020/11/drive-thru-fb-1020x680.png 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2020/11/drive-thru-fb-160x107.png 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2020/11/drive-thru-fb-1536x1024.png 1536w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">As demand for food banks soars, drive-thru facilities like this have proved effective at getting people what they need during the pandemic. \u003ccite>(Frederic J. Brown/Getty)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003ch2>\u003ca id=\"support\">\u003c/a>How can you help your local food bank?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Donating money might be better than donating food\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Altfest said that “the best thing anybody can do to support our food bank or any food bank right now is financial donations.” The same inflation that’s making it harder for people to afford food is also \u003ca href=\"https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2022/11/23/us-food-banks-pantries-struggle/10671432002/\">affecting the ability of food banks to purchase supplies to serve their clients\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Around 60% of the Alameda County Community Food Bank’s funding comes just from the holiday season, said Altfest. But the need for food banks isn’t confined to the holidays. He explains that “hunger is a 365-day-a-year problem,” and that food banks still need support all throughout the year.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Donating money might also be more effective than donating food in helping your local food bank acquire and bring food to those it serves: When the pandemic hit in 2020, it changed the way many food banks solicit and accept food donations due to the risks of spreading COVID — and you still might not see as many food drive collection barrels in stores these days.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Donating money rather than food gives food banks far more flexibility. Second Harvest in San José, for example, is able to negotiate special deals for the food it buys “by the truckload” — at a “much better value than you could get if you went to Costco or Safeway,” \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/forum/2010101880355/food-banks-struggle-to-meet-pandemic-fueled-demand\">as Second Harvest’s Leslie Bacho told KQED in 2020\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Put simply, food banks know how to make your cash go a long way when it comes to buying food — almost certainly further than if you donated food yourself.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Donate your time\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you don’t need the services of a food bank right now, and you have time to spare, you might consider volunteering at a local food bank.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Altfest said that while volunteers are critical, it’s common that their shifts are mostly filled over the holidays. But after January 1, it’s a different story.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you’re considering taking on a volunteer shift, Altfest said that January and February are important times to consider — and maybe even more impactful — because a lot of support peters out after the holidays end. That’s when you could be needed most.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you’re planning on volunteering at a food bank this holiday season or beyond, check for any COVID vaccination requirements but also still expect potential rules including wearing face coverings and gloves, and maintaining social distance. If you’re nervous about volunteering in person during the ongoing pandemic, speak with someone at the food bank you’re thinking of supporting and ask them about their COVID safety procedures.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Give back in a way that connects with you\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Altfest said that it’s also crucial that volunteers support food banks in a way that fosters community.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“We are always encouraging people to support us in the ways that are most meaningful to them,” he said. “Added to that individual direct support — like making a donation, putting food in a food drive barrel, coming in — volunteering is sharing what you’re doing, and what the impact is with other people.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“It’s our intent to get as many people in this community involved in our work in as many ways,” said Altfest.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>How to sign up to help\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The quickest way to offer your support is by visiting your local food bank’s website and signing up there to volunteer or make a donation.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad fullwidth]\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>\u003ca id=\"find\">\u003c/a>Find a food bank near you\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>San Francisco:\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.sfmfoodbank.org/\">SF-Marin Food Bank\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.stanthonysf.org/\">St. Anthony Foundation\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"http://www.glide.org/\">Glide Memorial Church\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.sfcityimpact.com/programs/#hunger\">San Francisco City Impact\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.foodrunners.org/\">Food Runners\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.oldfirst.org/volunteer.html\">Old First Presbyterian Church Inter-Faith Food Pantry\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>East Bay:\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"http://www.accfb.org/\">Alameda County Community Food Bank\u003c/a> (and \u003ca href=\"https://www.accfb.org/get-involved/volunteer-community/\">ACCFB’s partner organizations\u003c/a>)\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"http://www.loavesfishescc.org/\">Loaves and Fishes of Contra Costa\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.berkeleyfoodpantry.org/\">Berkeley Food Pantry\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.edfufoundation.org/bay-area-street-pantry.html\">Bay Area Street Pantry\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://unitycouncil.org/program/food-distribution/\">Unity Council’s Food Security Project\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://trivalleyhaven.org/homeless-and-family-support/food-pantry/\">Tri-Valley Haven Food Pantry\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"http://www.refp.org/\">Richmond Emergency Food Pantry\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://tmcoakland.org/\">Telegraph Community Ministry Center\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>North Bay:\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"http://www.vinnies.org/\">St. Vincent de Paul Society of Marin County\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.sfmfoodbank.org/\">SF-Marin Food Bank\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"http://canv.org/\">Community Action of Napa County Food Bank\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"http://www.refb.org/\">Redwood Empire Food Bank\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>South Bay:\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.shfb.org/\">Second Harvest of Silicon Valley\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"http://www.marthas-kitchen.org/\">Martha’s Kitchen\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.sacredheartcs.org/holidays\">Sacred Heart Community Service\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.theriverflows.org/food-pantry\">River of Life Foundation Food Pantry\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>Other smaller food banks and community fridges may be operating in your area. Some food banks also can offer advice and assistance with applying for food benefits such as \u003ca href=\"https://www.getcalfresh.org/\">CalFresh\u003c/a> (also known as food stamps).\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>A version of this story first published on November 23, 2021.\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad floatright]\u003c/p>\n",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003cp>Around the holidays, many folks’ thoughts turn to food banks.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>This can be because people particularly need the services that food banks provide at this time of year. It can also stem from a personal desire to donate money or time to these organizations. For some people, it’s about both.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>When people can’t buy the food they need, that’s known as food insecurity. And for many individuals and families, food banks offer a crucial lifeline, offering free food.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Keep reading for where to find your local food bank, how demand for these organizations has persisted through the COVID pandemic, and how best to support a food bank near you.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jump to: \u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>\u003ca href=\"#find\">Where can I find a food bank near me?\u003c/a>\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>\u003ca href=\"#support\">How can I best support my local food bank?\u003c/a>\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003ch2>Demand for food banks rose during the pandemic — and has stayed that way\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>In 2020, San José’s Second Harvest of Silicon Valley had “literally doubled the amount of food we’re distributing” from before the COVID outbreak, \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/forum/2010101880355/food-banks-struggle-to-meet-pandemic-fueled-demand\">CEO Leslie Bacho told KQED Forum in 2020\u003c/a> — and demand was already high.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“We are seeing so many people who are already just living on the edge, having to then burn through their savings,” Bacho said in that 2020 interview. “More than half the people we’re serving now have never sought food assistance before.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>An ongoing housing crisis, continuing gentrification, high cost of living and inflation hitting food prices means Bay Area residents continue to be particularly vulnerable to food insecurity as 2022 draws to a close. But what’s happening here continues to be felt nationwide: According to the most recent numbers from the Department of Agriculture’s Economic Research Service, in 2021 \u003ca href=\"https://www.ers.usda.gov/topics/food-nutrition-assistance/food-security-in-the-u-s/key-statistics-graphics/\">more than 33 million people across the United States were food insecure\u003c/a>. And \u003ca href=\"https://www.npr.org/2022/10/02/1125571699/hunger-poverty-us-dc-food-pantry\">as NPR has reported, “No community is spared\u003c/a>, with rural areas, families with children and communities of color disproportionately affected.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“Coming out of the height of the pandemic with inflation being as sustained and high as it is, \u003ca href=\"https://www.npr.org/2022/10/02/1125571699/hunger-poverty-us-dc-food-pantry\">it’s a hard time for many families\u003c/a>,” Radha Muthiah, CEO of Washington, D.C.’s Capital Area Food Bank, told NPR recently.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Michael Altfest, community engagement and marketing director at the Alameda County Community Food Bank, said that the need for his organization’s services has only risen in 2023. Thirty percent of the calls made to the Alameda County Community Food Bank emergency food line are still coming from first-time callers, he said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“Since 2021, it’s been a pretty sustained need,” said Altfest. “We’re serving far more people now than we were in 2020, and we continue to see new people regularly.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_11847434\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\" style=\"max-width: 1920px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-11847434 size-full\" src=\"https://ww2.kqed.org/app/uploads/sites/10/2020/11/drive-thru-fb.png\" alt=\"Two volunteers load food into a dark red car. One volunteer with long brown hair, a baseball cap, a green shirt and a yellow jacket is holding the door of the car. The other volunteer, wearing a blue shirt with short brown hair, is crouched to lift a heavy-looking box into the car.\" width=\"1920\" height=\"1280\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2020/11/drive-thru-fb.png 1920w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2020/11/drive-thru-fb-800x533.png 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2020/11/drive-thru-fb-1020x680.png 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2020/11/drive-thru-fb-160x107.png 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2020/11/drive-thru-fb-1536x1024.png 1536w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">As demand for food banks soars, drive-thru facilities like this have proved effective at getting people what they need during the pandemic. \u003ccite>(Frederic J. Brown/Getty)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003ch2>\u003ca id=\"support\">\u003c/a>How can you help your local food bank?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Donating money might be better than donating food\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Altfest said that “the best thing anybody can do to support our food bank or any food bank right now is financial donations.” The same inflation that’s making it harder for people to afford food is also \u003ca href=\"https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2022/11/23/us-food-banks-pantries-struggle/10671432002/\">affecting the ability of food banks to purchase supplies to serve their clients\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Around 60% of the Alameda County Community Food Bank’s funding comes just from the holiday season, said Altfest. But the need for food banks isn’t confined to the holidays. He explains that “hunger is a 365-day-a-year problem,” and that food banks still need support all throughout the year.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Donating money might also be more effective than donating food in helping your local food bank acquire and bring food to those it serves: When the pandemic hit in 2020, it changed the way many food banks solicit and accept food donations due to the risks of spreading COVID — and you still might not see as many food drive collection barrels in stores these days.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Donating money rather than food gives food banks far more flexibility. Second Harvest in San José, for example, is able to negotiate special deals for the food it buys “by the truckload” — at a “much better value than you could get if you went to Costco or Safeway,” \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/forum/2010101880355/food-banks-struggle-to-meet-pandemic-fueled-demand\">as Second Harvest’s Leslie Bacho told KQED in 2020\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Put simply, food banks know how to make your cash go a long way when it comes to buying food — almost certainly further than if you donated food yourself.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Donate your time\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you don’t need the services of a food bank right now, and you have time to spare, you might consider volunteering at a local food bank.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Altfest said that while volunteers are critical, it’s common that their shifts are mostly filled over the holidays. But after January 1, it’s a different story.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you’re considering taking on a volunteer shift, Altfest said that January and February are important times to consider — and maybe even more impactful — because a lot of support peters out after the holidays end. That’s when you could be needed most.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you’re planning on volunteering at a food bank this holiday season or beyond, check for any COVID vaccination requirements but also still expect potential rules including wearing face coverings and gloves, and maintaining social distance. If you’re nervous about volunteering in person during the ongoing pandemic, speak with someone at the food bank you’re thinking of supporting and ask them about their COVID safety procedures.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Give back in a way that connects with you\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Altfest said that it’s also crucial that volunteers support food banks in a way that fosters community.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“We are always encouraging people to support us in the ways that are most meaningful to them,” he said. “Added to that individual direct support — like making a donation, putting food in a food drive barrel, coming in — volunteering is sharing what you’re doing, and what the impact is with other people.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“It’s our intent to get as many people in this community involved in our work in as many ways,” said Altfest.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>How to sign up to help\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The quickest way to offer your support is by visiting your local food bank’s website and signing up there to volunteer or make a donation.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>\u003ca id=\"find\">\u003c/a>Find a food bank near you\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>San Francisco:\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.sfmfoodbank.org/\">SF-Marin Food Bank\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.stanthonysf.org/\">St. Anthony Foundation\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"http://www.glide.org/\">Glide Memorial Church\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.sfcityimpact.com/programs/#hunger\">San Francisco City Impact\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.foodrunners.org/\">Food Runners\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.oldfirst.org/volunteer.html\">Old First Presbyterian Church Inter-Faith Food Pantry\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>East Bay:\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"http://www.accfb.org/\">Alameda County Community Food Bank\u003c/a> (and \u003ca href=\"https://www.accfb.org/get-involved/volunteer-community/\">ACCFB’s partner organizations\u003c/a>)\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"http://www.loavesfishescc.org/\">Loaves and Fishes of Contra Costa\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.berkeleyfoodpantry.org/\">Berkeley Food Pantry\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.edfufoundation.org/bay-area-street-pantry.html\">Bay Area Street Pantry\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://unitycouncil.org/program/food-distribution/\">Unity Council’s Food Security Project\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://trivalleyhaven.org/homeless-and-family-support/food-pantry/\">Tri-Valley Haven Food Pantry\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"http://www.refp.org/\">Richmond Emergency Food Pantry\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://tmcoakland.org/\">Telegraph Community Ministry Center\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>North Bay:\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"http://www.vinnies.org/\">St. Vincent de Paul Society of Marin County\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.sfmfoodbank.org/\">SF-Marin Food Bank\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"http://canv.org/\">Community Action of Napa County Food Bank\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"http://www.refb.org/\">Redwood Empire Food Bank\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>South Bay:\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.shfb.org/\">Second Harvest of Silicon Valley\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"http://www.marthas-kitchen.org/\">Martha’s Kitchen\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.sacredheartcs.org/holidays\">Sacred Heart Community Service\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.theriverflows.org/food-pantry\">River of Life Foundation Food Pantry\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>Other smaller food banks and community fridges may be operating in your area. Some food banks also can offer advice and assistance with applying for food benefits such as \u003ca href=\"https://www.getcalfresh.org/\">CalFresh\u003c/a> (also known as food stamps).\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>A version of this story first published on November 23, 2021.\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"slug": "where-can-i-find-a-new-omicron-covid-booster-shot-near-me",
"title": "Where Can I Find a Bivalent COVID Booster Shot Near Me (Now for Kids Under 5, Too)?",
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"headTitle": "Where Can I Find a Bivalent COVID Booster Shot Near Me (Now for Kids Under 5, Too)? | KQED",
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},
"content": "\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2022/s0901-covid-19-booster.html\">New Moderna and Pfizer booster shots of the reformulated COVID-19 vaccine are available \u003c/a>— and Bay Area residents are being urged to get boosted ahead of the holidays amid a sharp rise in infection rates.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The updated booster shots, called bivalent vaccines and sometimes referred to as “the omicron booster,” target both the original strain of the coronavirus and the widespread BA.4/BA.5 omicron subvariants that have largely evaded previous boosters. \u003ca href=\"https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2022/s0901-covid-19-booster.html\">These new booster shots “can help restore protection\u003c/a> that has waned since previous vaccination and were designed to provide broader protection against newer variants,” said CDC Director Rochelle Walensky when initially authorizing the shots in September.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>\u003ca id=\"boosterskids\">\u003c/a>Bivalent boosters now authorized for kids under 5\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>The latest update: As of Dec. 9, \u003ca href=\"https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2022/s1209-covid-vaccine.html\">these boosters are also available for children age 6 months up to 5 years old\u003c/a>. (Bivalent boosters were made available for people age 12 and up in September, and to children age 5 and older in October.)\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>What should you know about finding a bivalent booster for kids under 5?\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Jump to: \u003c/strong>\u003cstrong>\u003ca href=\"#where\">Where can I find a bivalent COVID booster shot near me?\u003c/a>\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>A child under 5 who has had three doses of the Pfizer vaccine can’t get a bivalent booster (yet).\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If your child is under age 5 and has completed their three-dose primary series with the original (monovalent) Pfizer COVID vaccine, they’re \u003cem>not\u003c/em> eligible for a bivalent booster dose at this time.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The Food and Drug Administration’s statement says that’s because “\u003ca href=\"https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/coronavirus-covid-19-update-fda-authorizes-updated-bivalent-covid-19-vaccines-children-down-6-months\">children in this age group who already completed their [Pfizer] primary series would still be expected to have protection\u003c/a> against the most serious outcomes from the currently circulating omicron variant.” The agency says it expects “data to support giving an updated bivalent booster dose for these children” to arrive in January.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>What if a child under 5 has started their Pfizer primary series but hasn’t had all three doses? In that case, the FDA says that child will get the bivalent booster \u003cem>as\u003c/em> their third dose, to replace the previously planned third dose of monovalent vaccine.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>You won’t find a bivalent booster for kids under 3 at a pharmacy.\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The state says that pharmacies aren’t authorized to vaccinate children age 2 and under.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>This means that unless your child is age 3 or older, you won’t be able to get their updated booster (or any COVID shot) at a pharmacy.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The exception to this is CVS’s MinuteClinics, which are staffed by providers who \u003cem>can\u003c/em> administer a COVID booster or primary series vaccine to kids age 18 months and older. But CVS’s regular pharmacies will only offer a bivalent booster to kids age 5 and older (not 3, like other pharmacies).\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>This means that if your child is between 6 months and 18 months, you’ll need to find a bivalent booster appointment for them through My Turn, through your county or through your pediatrician instead of at a pharmacy. \u003ca href=\"#where\">Jump to how you can make an appointment for a bivalent COVID booster shot.\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Kids under 5 should stay with the vaccine brand they initially received (for now).\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Yes, \u003ca href=\"#mix\">“mixing and match” the new COVID boosters \u003c/a>(that is, receiving a different vaccine brand for your bivalent booster from the one you got for your primary vaccine series) has been deemed fine for other age groups. But the CDC’s statement authorizing these boosters recommends that children under 5 get the \u003cem>same\u003c/em> brand for their booster:\u003c/p>\n\u003cblockquote>\u003cp>Children ages 6 months through 5 years who previously completed a Moderna primary series are eligible to receive a Moderna bivalent booster 2 months after their final primary series dose. Children ages 6 months through 4 years who are currently completing a Pfizer primary series will receive a Pfizer bivalent vaccine as their third primary dose.\u003c/p>\u003c/blockquote>\n\u003cp>This means that in \u003ca href=\"#where\">making an appointment for the bivalent COVID booster shot for a child under age 5\u003c/a>, you’ll need to be extra-certain that the pharmacy or clinic is offering the vaccine brand you need. You may find that certain locations are low on supply of a particular brand, or are awaiting shipments.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Booster appointments for kids under 5 may take a while to become available.\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>As the most recently approved age group authorized to receive these updated omicron boosters, you may find that not all pharmacies are offering appointments yet for this age group. \u003ca href=\"https://myturn.ca.gov/\">The state’s My Turn website\u003c/a> can also be slow to provide scheduling options for a newly approved age group. If one pharmacy chain or clinic or website isn’t offering the appointments you’re seeking, you may have to look at other locations if you’re looking for a shot ASAP.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Read more about\u003ca href=\"#where\"> where you can find a bivalent COVID booster shot \u003c/a>for a child age 6 months to 5 years.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Officials: Get your booster now\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>Uptake on the bivalent booster has been relatively low, despite the shots being available for over three months. According to the state’s data, \u003ca href=\"https://covid19.ca.gov/vaccination-progress-data/#overview\">only 18% of eligible Californians have received their updated omicron booster\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_11935447\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\" style=\"max-width: 1633px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-11935447\" src=\"https://ww2.kqed.org/app/uploads/sites/10/2022/12/Bivalent-Booster-Rates.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"1633\" height=\"830\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/12/Bivalent-Booster-Rates.png 1633w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/12/Bivalent-Booster-Rates-800x407.png 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/12/Bivalent-Booster-Rates-1020x518.png 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/12/Bivalent-Booster-Rates-160x81.png 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/12/Bivalent-Booster-Rates-1536x781.png 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1633px) 100vw, 1633px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Source: California Department of Public Health (data as of Dec. 13, 2022) \u003ccite>(Matthew Green/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>The calls for increased awareness around bivalent booster shots comes as \u003ca href=\"https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2022/11/22/1137649962/experts-are-concerned-thanksgiving-gatherings-could-accelerate-a-tripledemic\">the United States experiences a so-called “tripledemic” of respiratory viruses\u003c/a>: COVID, flu and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11925585/when-should-you-get-your-2022-flu-shot#flushotnearme\">Find out where to get a flu shot near you\u003c/a>, with our without insurance. There is currently no vaccine for RSV.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>On Dec. 6, public health officials in Santa Clara County urged residents to seek out not just the updated bivalent booster but also their flu shot. In a statement, county officials noted a “sharp increase” in COVID levels detected in wastewater by the county’s monitoring program, calling the numbers “a stark reminder for everyone eligible to get vaccinated against both flu and COVID as soon as possible, especially in advance of the holidays.” For context, county officials noted that COVID levels in the particular Palo Alto sewer shed were “higher than they were in January 2022, at the height of the Omicron surge last winter.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Santa Clara officials also noted the “steady rise” of hospitalized patients who were COVID-positive, rising from 98 cases on Nov. 1 to 218 cases by Dec. 2 in Santa Clara County alone. Dr. Sara Cody, health officer and director of public health for the county of Santa Clara, called the most recent COVID surge “not unexpected,” in the context of previous surges over the winter holidays in 2020 and 2021.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>In addition to encouraging residents to seek out their bivalent COVID booster and their flu shot, Cody also noted that Santa Clara public health officials “continue to strongly recommend testing before gathering and wearing a mask indoors in public settings.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Marin has the highest bivalent booster uptake in the Bay Area so far, while Solano has the lowest rates locally. Check \u003ca href=\"https://covid19.ca.gov/vaccination-progress-data/#overview\">what percentage of people in your county have got their bivalent booster\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jump to:\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>\u003ca href=\"#eligiblebooster\">Who is eligible for new COVID boosters?\u003c/a>\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>\u003ca href=\"#mix\">Can I “mix and match” the new COVID boosters?\u003c/a>\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>\u003ca href=\"#where\">Where can I find the new COVID booster shot near me?\u003c/a>\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>Keep reading for what you need to know about the new COVID booster shots from Pfizer and Moderna. And remember, whichever shot you get, all COVID vaccinations are free, with or without health insurance.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>You also will not be asked about your immigration status or be required to show any proof of citizenship. \u003ca href=\"https://www.uscis.gov/green-card/green-card-processes-and-procedures/public-charge/public-charge-resources\">Getting a COVID vaccine does not make you a public charge\u003c/a> and won’t affect any current or future green card applications.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Remember, too: If you work in California for an employer with 26 or more employees, \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11904834/covid-sick-pay-in-california-how-to-claim-this-new-paid-leave\">you are eligible for up to 80 hours of COVID-related paid sick leave\u003c/a> until Dec. 31. This includes time off to get your updated COVID booster or to recover from any side effects — or to take a family member to get their new COVID booster, or care for them while they recover. The law expires at the end of the month, but if you’re eligible and have begun to claim COVID sick pay on or before the deadline, you can continue claiming this paid leave into January. \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11904834/covid-sick-pay-in-california-how-to-claim-this-new-paid-leave\">Read more about California’s paid COVID-related leave.\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>\u003ca id=\"eligiblebooster\">\u003c/a>Who can get a new omicron COVID booster?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>As of Dec. 9, anyone age 6 months and up who got their last COVID vaccine shot at least two months ago — whether that was their primary vaccination series or their last booster shot — can get an updated COVID booster. But there’s specific guidance for different age groups.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Children age 6 months to 5 years:\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"#boosterskids\">Jump to more information about bivalent boosters for children under 5.\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Ages 5 and up:\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The new Pfizer booster is available to those age 5 and older who have had their primary vaccination series.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The new Moderna booster is available to people age 6 and older who have had their primary series.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>People age 12 and older will get a full-sized, adult dose of either the Pfizer or Moderna booster. Kids age 5–11 will get a third of an adult dose for their Pfizer bivalent booster, and a half-sized dose of Moderna’s bivalent booster is on offer for kids age 6–11.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2022/09/01/1120560488/cdc-advisers-back-new-booster-shots-to-fight-omicron\">NPR reports that many vaccine experts are advising that people wait at least four months\u003c/a> since either their last shot or their last COVID infection for the boosters to be most effective. And, of course, with all matters relating to your health, it’s best to speak directly to your health care provider about the best options available to you.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>\u003ca id=\"mix\">\u003c/a>Can I ‘mix and match’ COVID vaccines for my booster shot?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>Yes, everyone except the under-5 age group \u003cem>can\u003c/em> “mix and match” brands, regardless of whether you originally got Pfizer, Moderna or Johnson and Johnson shots for your primary vaccine series or your booster(s) after that.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>So, for instance, someone 5 or older who originally got the Moderna vaccine can now get a new booster from either Moderna or Pfizer — and vice versa.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"#boosterskids\">Jump to more information about bivalent boosters for children under 5.\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_11890214\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\" style=\"max-width: 2560px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-11890214\" src=\"https://ww2.kqed.org/app/uploads/sites/10/2021/09/GettyImages-1234768670-scaled.jpg\" alt=\"A man sitting on a large porch lifts up his sleeve as he awaits his vaccine, beside a woman in an orange safety vest preparing the vaccine.\" width=\"2560\" height=\"1703\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2021/09/GettyImages-1234768670-scaled.jpg 2560w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2021/09/GettyImages-1234768670-800x532.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2021/09/GettyImages-1234768670-1020x679.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2021/09/GettyImages-1234768670-160x106.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2021/09/GettyImages-1234768670-1536x1022.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2021/09/GettyImages-1234768670-2048x1362.jpg 2048w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2021/09/GettyImages-1234768670-1920x1277.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2560px) 100vw, 2560px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">A nurse prepares a first dose of the Pfizer coronavirus vaccine for Jose Luis Sánchez at a clinic in Pasadena, on Aug. 19, 2021. The clinic was one of the first in the city to offer ‘supplemental’ third coronavirus shots to people with immunological conditions, according to organizers. \u003ccite>(Robyn Beck/AFP via Getty Images)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003ch2>\u003ca id=\"where\">\u003c/a>Where can I find a new Pfizer or Moderna booster shot?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>Don’t assume you’ll be proactively contacted about getting the new COVID-19 booster.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Remember that a certain location may only be offering a certain type of new booster, whether that’s Moderna or Pfizer. So be sure that the location you’re walking into or making an appointment for offers the type of vaccine you need or want, particularly if you’re trying to find a bivalent booster for a child. \u003ca href=\"#mix\">Read more about “mixing and matching” COVID vaccine boosters.\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Also make sure the appointment you schedule for your new booster is at least two months after your last COVID vaccine shot, or your last COVID infection. When you’re making an appointment for a booster shot, you’ll likely be asked for the date of your last COVID vaccine dose or booster dose to ensure you’re not getting your shot too soon.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_11890217\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\" style=\"max-width: 2560px\">\u003ca href=\"#mix\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-11890217 size-full\" src=\"https://ww2.kqed.org/app/uploads/sites/10/2021/09/GettyImages-1234768450-scaled.jpg\" alt=\"A close-up of a hand gripping a vaccination card and writing on it with a pen.\" width=\"2560\" height=\"1704\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2021/09/GettyImages-1234768450-scaled.jpg 2560w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2021/09/GettyImages-1234768450-800x532.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2021/09/GettyImages-1234768450-1020x679.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2021/09/GettyImages-1234768450-160x106.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2021/09/GettyImages-1234768450-1536x1022.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2021/09/GettyImages-1234768450-2048x1363.jpg 2048w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2021/09/GettyImages-1234768450-1920x1278.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2560px) 100vw, 2560px\">\u003c/a>\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">A nurse marks a coronavirus vaccination card with a third, booster dose of Pfizer, at a vaccine clinic in Pasadena, on Aug. 19, 2021. \u003ccite>(Robyn Beck/AFP via Getty Images))\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>1. Find a Moderna or Pfizer booster shot through a local pharmacy.\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Pharmacies are usually the first place that new booster shots become available. Several pharmacy chains are offering online appointments for them, and some also offer walk-in appointments with no prescheduling required.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Remember that pharmacies can’t vaccinate kids under 3, with the exception of CVS MinuteClinics, who are permitted to vaccinate kids as young as 18 months old. \u003ca href=\"#boosterskids\">Jump to more information about bivalent boosters for children under 5.\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.cvs.com/immunizations/covid-19-vaccine?icid=cvs-home-hero1-banner-1-link2-coronavirus-vaccine\">CVS COVID-19 vaccine appointments \u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.riteaid.com/pharmacy/covid-qualifier?utm_source=state&utm_medium=web&utm_campaign=Covid19&utm_content=Covid19scheduler_CA_2_12_21\">Rite Aid COVID-19 vaccine appointments\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.mhealthappointments.com/covidappt\">Safeway (Albertsons) COVID-19 vaccine appointments\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.walgreens.com/findcare/vaccination/covid-19?ban=covid_vaccine_landing_schedule\">Walgreens COVID-19 vaccine appointments\u003c/a>, or call (800) WALGREENS/(800) 925-4733\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.costco.com/covid-vaccine.html\">Costco’s COVID-19 vaccine appointments\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>2. Find a Moderna or Pfizer booster shot through My Turn.\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://myturn.ca.gov/\">My Turn is the state’s site\u003c/a> for Californians to schedule vaccination appointments, as supplies allow. You can also try to \u003ca href=\"https://myturn.ca.gov/clinic.html\">find walk-in appointments through My Turn\u003c/a>. Bivalent booster appointments for children under 5 are not yet available on My Turn, as of Dec. 15.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://myturn.ca.gov/\">If you visit the My Turn page\u003c/a>, select “Make an Appointment.” My Turn will ask for your information, and the ZIP code or location you’d like to use to search for vaccine appointments. You can give your home location, or input other locations to see which sites might be available farther away.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>You don’t need to be a resident or a worker in the particular county where your preferred vaccination site is located, according to the California Department of Public Health (CDPH), which manages My Turn. So don’t worry if the site suggests appointments in a different county.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad fullwidth]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you can’t travel to a clinic for your booster shot because of health or transportation issues, you can note this when registering on My Turn, and a representative from the CDPH is supposed to call you to arrange an in-home visit or transportation.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you’re trying to find an appointment at a certain location and can’t see it in the search results, try searching on My Turn for that site’s \u003cem>exact\u003c/em> ZIP code, rather than your own. Remember that if you’re not seeing a specific site in the search results, it might just be because of low supply or lack of available appointments. Most of the results may also likely be pharmacy locations, with a handful of public health clinics mixed in, so make sure to look through the list carefully to find your preferred provider.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>My Turn will ask you to provide a cellphone number and an email address. The state says this is so you can use two-factor authentication to confirm your identity and make your appointment, and to prevent bots from automatically scooping up available appointments online.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you don’t have an email address or a cellphone number, or you have questions, you can call the California COVID-19 hotline at (833) 422-4255 (Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-8 p.m., Saturday and Sunday 8 a.m.-5 p.m PT) and sign up over the phone. Both English-speaking and Spanish-speaking operators are available. Callers needing information in other languages will be connected to a translation service that offers assistance in over 250 languages.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_11889661\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\" style=\"max-width: 1920px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-11889661\" src=\"https://ww2.kqed.org/app/uploads/sites/10/2021/09/michigan_shot_gettyimages-1234850852-8f2a1402d5a0ab808313f55bdac52f950c8ad974-scaled-e1632414475184.jpg\" alt=\"Blue-gloved hands administer a vaccine into a shoulder.\" width=\"1920\" height=\"1440\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Rufus Peoples receives his booster dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech coronavirus vaccine during an Oakland County Health Department vaccination clinic at the Southfield Pavilion on Aug. 24, 2021, in Southfield, Michigan. \u003ccite>(Emily Elconin/Getty Images)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>3. Find a Moderna or Pfizer booster shot through your county.\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11855623/where-can-i-get-a-covid-19-vaccine-in-the-bay-area-your-questions-answered#county\">Visit your county’s public health website \u003c/a>to learn how your county is vaccinating its residents. If the county you work in is different from your county of residence, it’s likely you can get vaccinated in either county. The availability of vaccination appointments in your county will be based on the number of doses it has received from the state.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>You can also sign up to receive notifications via email from your county to be alerted when appointments become available. \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11855623/where-can-i-get-a-covid-19-vaccine-in-the-bay-area-your-questions-answered#county\">Find your Bay Area county in our list.\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>4. Find a Moderna or Pfizer booster shot through your health care provider.\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you have health insurance, check with your provider to see whether they can offer you a booster shot. If you don’t have health insurance but get medical care through a city- or county-run provider, you should check with that location to see whether they can offer you the booster.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>In addition to trying to talk with your health care provider directly, check the website of your provider to see whether it’s offering the ability to make appointments, and sign up for their vaccine notifications if that’s an option.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>A version of this story was originally published on December 6.\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad floatright]\u003c/p>\n",
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"excerpt": "New omicron bivalent booster shots for kids under 5 are now available. Here's where to find an updated COVID booster near you.",
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"title": "Where Can I Find a Bivalent COVID Booster Shot Near Me (Now for Kids Under 5, Too)? | KQED",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2022/s0901-covid-19-booster.html\">New Moderna and Pfizer booster shots of the reformulated COVID-19 vaccine are available \u003c/a>— and Bay Area residents are being urged to get boosted ahead of the holidays amid a sharp rise in infection rates.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The updated booster shots, called bivalent vaccines and sometimes referred to as “the omicron booster,” target both the original strain of the coronavirus and the widespread BA.4/BA.5 omicron subvariants that have largely evaded previous boosters. \u003ca href=\"https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2022/s0901-covid-19-booster.html\">These new booster shots “can help restore protection\u003c/a> that has waned since previous vaccination and were designed to provide broader protection against newer variants,” said CDC Director Rochelle Walensky when initially authorizing the shots in September.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>\u003ca id=\"boosterskids\">\u003c/a>Bivalent boosters now authorized for kids under 5\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>The latest update: As of Dec. 9, \u003ca href=\"https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2022/s1209-covid-vaccine.html\">these boosters are also available for children age 6 months up to 5 years old\u003c/a>. (Bivalent boosters were made available for people age 12 and up in September, and to children age 5 and older in October.)\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>What should you know about finding a bivalent booster for kids under 5?\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Jump to: \u003c/strong>\u003cstrong>\u003ca href=\"#where\">Where can I find a bivalent COVID booster shot near me?\u003c/a>\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>A child under 5 who has had three doses of the Pfizer vaccine can’t get a bivalent booster (yet).\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If your child is under age 5 and has completed their three-dose primary series with the original (monovalent) Pfizer COVID vaccine, they’re \u003cem>not\u003c/em> eligible for a bivalent booster dose at this time.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The Food and Drug Administration’s statement says that’s because “\u003ca href=\"https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/coronavirus-covid-19-update-fda-authorizes-updated-bivalent-covid-19-vaccines-children-down-6-months\">children in this age group who already completed their [Pfizer] primary series would still be expected to have protection\u003c/a> against the most serious outcomes from the currently circulating omicron variant.” The agency says it expects “data to support giving an updated bivalent booster dose for these children” to arrive in January.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>What if a child under 5 has started their Pfizer primary series but hasn’t had all three doses? In that case, the FDA says that child will get the bivalent booster \u003cem>as\u003c/em> their third dose, to replace the previously planned third dose of monovalent vaccine.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>You won’t find a bivalent booster for kids under 3 at a pharmacy.\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The state says that pharmacies aren’t authorized to vaccinate children age 2 and under.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>This means that unless your child is age 3 or older, you won’t be able to get their updated booster (or any COVID shot) at a pharmacy.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The exception to this is CVS’s MinuteClinics, which are staffed by providers who \u003cem>can\u003c/em> administer a COVID booster or primary series vaccine to kids age 18 months and older. But CVS’s regular pharmacies will only offer a bivalent booster to kids age 5 and older (not 3, like other pharmacies).\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>This means that if your child is between 6 months and 18 months, you’ll need to find a bivalent booster appointment for them through My Turn, through your county or through your pediatrician instead of at a pharmacy. \u003ca href=\"#where\">Jump to how you can make an appointment for a bivalent COVID booster shot.\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Kids under 5 should stay with the vaccine brand they initially received (for now).\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Yes, \u003ca href=\"#mix\">“mixing and match” the new COVID boosters \u003c/a>(that is, receiving a different vaccine brand for your bivalent booster from the one you got for your primary vaccine series) has been deemed fine for other age groups. But the CDC’s statement authorizing these boosters recommends that children under 5 get the \u003cem>same\u003c/em> brand for their booster:\u003c/p>\n\u003cblockquote>\u003cp>Children ages 6 months through 5 years who previously completed a Moderna primary series are eligible to receive a Moderna bivalent booster 2 months after their final primary series dose. Children ages 6 months through 4 years who are currently completing a Pfizer primary series will receive a Pfizer bivalent vaccine as their third primary dose.\u003c/p>\u003c/blockquote>\n\u003cp>This means that in \u003ca href=\"#where\">making an appointment for the bivalent COVID booster shot for a child under age 5\u003c/a>, you’ll need to be extra-certain that the pharmacy or clinic is offering the vaccine brand you need. You may find that certain locations are low on supply of a particular brand, or are awaiting shipments.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Booster appointments for kids under 5 may take a while to become available.\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>As the most recently approved age group authorized to receive these updated omicron boosters, you may find that not all pharmacies are offering appointments yet for this age group. \u003ca href=\"https://myturn.ca.gov/\">The state’s My Turn website\u003c/a> can also be slow to provide scheduling options for a newly approved age group. If one pharmacy chain or clinic or website isn’t offering the appointments you’re seeking, you may have to look at other locations if you’re looking for a shot ASAP.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Read more about\u003ca href=\"#where\"> where you can find a bivalent COVID booster shot \u003c/a>for a child age 6 months to 5 years.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Officials: Get your booster now\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>Uptake on the bivalent booster has been relatively low, despite the shots being available for over three months. According to the state’s data, \u003ca href=\"https://covid19.ca.gov/vaccination-progress-data/#overview\">only 18% of eligible Californians have received their updated omicron booster\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_11935447\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\" style=\"max-width: 1633px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-11935447\" src=\"https://ww2.kqed.org/app/uploads/sites/10/2022/12/Bivalent-Booster-Rates.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"1633\" height=\"830\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/12/Bivalent-Booster-Rates.png 1633w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/12/Bivalent-Booster-Rates-800x407.png 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/12/Bivalent-Booster-Rates-1020x518.png 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/12/Bivalent-Booster-Rates-160x81.png 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/12/Bivalent-Booster-Rates-1536x781.png 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1633px) 100vw, 1633px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Source: California Department of Public Health (data as of Dec. 13, 2022) \u003ccite>(Matthew Green/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>The calls for increased awareness around bivalent booster shots comes as \u003ca href=\"https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2022/11/22/1137649962/experts-are-concerned-thanksgiving-gatherings-could-accelerate-a-tripledemic\">the United States experiences a so-called “tripledemic” of respiratory viruses\u003c/a>: COVID, flu and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11925585/when-should-you-get-your-2022-flu-shot#flushotnearme\">Find out where to get a flu shot near you\u003c/a>, with our without insurance. There is currently no vaccine for RSV.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>On Dec. 6, public health officials in Santa Clara County urged residents to seek out not just the updated bivalent booster but also their flu shot. In a statement, county officials noted a “sharp increase” in COVID levels detected in wastewater by the county’s monitoring program, calling the numbers “a stark reminder for everyone eligible to get vaccinated against both flu and COVID as soon as possible, especially in advance of the holidays.” For context, county officials noted that COVID levels in the particular Palo Alto sewer shed were “higher than they were in January 2022, at the height of the Omicron surge last winter.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Santa Clara officials also noted the “steady rise” of hospitalized patients who were COVID-positive, rising from 98 cases on Nov. 1 to 218 cases by Dec. 2 in Santa Clara County alone. Dr. Sara Cody, health officer and director of public health for the county of Santa Clara, called the most recent COVID surge “not unexpected,” in the context of previous surges over the winter holidays in 2020 and 2021.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>In addition to encouraging residents to seek out their bivalent COVID booster and their flu shot, Cody also noted that Santa Clara public health officials “continue to strongly recommend testing before gathering and wearing a mask indoors in public settings.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Marin has the highest bivalent booster uptake in the Bay Area so far, while Solano has the lowest rates locally. Check \u003ca href=\"https://covid19.ca.gov/vaccination-progress-data/#overview\">what percentage of people in your county have got their bivalent booster\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jump to:\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>\u003ca href=\"#eligiblebooster\">Who is eligible for new COVID boosters?\u003c/a>\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>\u003ca href=\"#mix\">Can I “mix and match” the new COVID boosters?\u003c/a>\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>\u003ca href=\"#where\">Where can I find the new COVID booster shot near me?\u003c/a>\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>Keep reading for what you need to know about the new COVID booster shots from Pfizer and Moderna. And remember, whichever shot you get, all COVID vaccinations are free, with or without health insurance.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>You also will not be asked about your immigration status or be required to show any proof of citizenship. \u003ca href=\"https://www.uscis.gov/green-card/green-card-processes-and-procedures/public-charge/public-charge-resources\">Getting a COVID vaccine does not make you a public charge\u003c/a> and won’t affect any current or future green card applications.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Remember, too: If you work in California for an employer with 26 or more employees, \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11904834/covid-sick-pay-in-california-how-to-claim-this-new-paid-leave\">you are eligible for up to 80 hours of COVID-related paid sick leave\u003c/a> until Dec. 31. This includes time off to get your updated COVID booster or to recover from any side effects — or to take a family member to get their new COVID booster, or care for them while they recover. The law expires at the end of the month, but if you’re eligible and have begun to claim COVID sick pay on or before the deadline, you can continue claiming this paid leave into January. \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11904834/covid-sick-pay-in-california-how-to-claim-this-new-paid-leave\">Read more about California’s paid COVID-related leave.\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>\u003ca id=\"eligiblebooster\">\u003c/a>Who can get a new omicron COVID booster?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>As of Dec. 9, anyone age 6 months and up who got their last COVID vaccine shot at least two months ago — whether that was their primary vaccination series or their last booster shot — can get an updated COVID booster. But there’s specific guidance for different age groups.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Children age 6 months to 5 years:\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"#boosterskids\">Jump to more information about bivalent boosters for children under 5.\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Ages 5 and up:\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The new Pfizer booster is available to those age 5 and older who have had their primary vaccination series.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The new Moderna booster is available to people age 6 and older who have had their primary series.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>People age 12 and older will get a full-sized, adult dose of either the Pfizer or Moderna booster. Kids age 5–11 will get a third of an adult dose for their Pfizer bivalent booster, and a half-sized dose of Moderna’s bivalent booster is on offer for kids age 6–11.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2022/09/01/1120560488/cdc-advisers-back-new-booster-shots-to-fight-omicron\">NPR reports that many vaccine experts are advising that people wait at least four months\u003c/a> since either their last shot or their last COVID infection for the boosters to be most effective. And, of course, with all matters relating to your health, it’s best to speak directly to your health care provider about the best options available to you.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>\u003ca id=\"mix\">\u003c/a>Can I ‘mix and match’ COVID vaccines for my booster shot?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>Yes, everyone except the under-5 age group \u003cem>can\u003c/em> “mix and match” brands, regardless of whether you originally got Pfizer, Moderna or Johnson and Johnson shots for your primary vaccine series or your booster(s) after that.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>So, for instance, someone 5 or older who originally got the Moderna vaccine can now get a new booster from either Moderna or Pfizer — and vice versa.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"#boosterskids\">Jump to more information about bivalent boosters for children under 5.\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_11890214\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\" style=\"max-width: 2560px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-11890214\" src=\"https://ww2.kqed.org/app/uploads/sites/10/2021/09/GettyImages-1234768670-scaled.jpg\" alt=\"A man sitting on a large porch lifts up his sleeve as he awaits his vaccine, beside a woman in an orange safety vest preparing the vaccine.\" width=\"2560\" height=\"1703\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2021/09/GettyImages-1234768670-scaled.jpg 2560w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2021/09/GettyImages-1234768670-800x532.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2021/09/GettyImages-1234768670-1020x679.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2021/09/GettyImages-1234768670-160x106.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2021/09/GettyImages-1234768670-1536x1022.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2021/09/GettyImages-1234768670-2048x1362.jpg 2048w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2021/09/GettyImages-1234768670-1920x1277.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2560px) 100vw, 2560px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">A nurse prepares a first dose of the Pfizer coronavirus vaccine for Jose Luis Sánchez at a clinic in Pasadena, on Aug. 19, 2021. The clinic was one of the first in the city to offer ‘supplemental’ third coronavirus shots to people with immunological conditions, according to organizers. \u003ccite>(Robyn Beck/AFP via Getty Images)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003ch2>\u003ca id=\"where\">\u003c/a>Where can I find a new Pfizer or Moderna booster shot?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>Don’t assume you’ll be proactively contacted about getting the new COVID-19 booster.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Remember that a certain location may only be offering a certain type of new booster, whether that’s Moderna or Pfizer. So be sure that the location you’re walking into or making an appointment for offers the type of vaccine you need or want, particularly if you’re trying to find a bivalent booster for a child. \u003ca href=\"#mix\">Read more about “mixing and matching” COVID vaccine boosters.\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Also make sure the appointment you schedule for your new booster is at least two months after your last COVID vaccine shot, or your last COVID infection. When you’re making an appointment for a booster shot, you’ll likely be asked for the date of your last COVID vaccine dose or booster dose to ensure you’re not getting your shot too soon.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_11890217\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\" style=\"max-width: 2560px\">\u003ca href=\"#mix\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-11890217 size-full\" src=\"https://ww2.kqed.org/app/uploads/sites/10/2021/09/GettyImages-1234768450-scaled.jpg\" alt=\"A close-up of a hand gripping a vaccination card and writing on it with a pen.\" width=\"2560\" height=\"1704\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2021/09/GettyImages-1234768450-scaled.jpg 2560w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2021/09/GettyImages-1234768450-800x532.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2021/09/GettyImages-1234768450-1020x679.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2021/09/GettyImages-1234768450-160x106.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2021/09/GettyImages-1234768450-1536x1022.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2021/09/GettyImages-1234768450-2048x1363.jpg 2048w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2021/09/GettyImages-1234768450-1920x1278.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2560px) 100vw, 2560px\">\u003c/a>\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">A nurse marks a coronavirus vaccination card with a third, booster dose of Pfizer, at a vaccine clinic in Pasadena, on Aug. 19, 2021. \u003ccite>(Robyn Beck/AFP via Getty Images))\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>1. Find a Moderna or Pfizer booster shot through a local pharmacy.\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Pharmacies are usually the first place that new booster shots become available. Several pharmacy chains are offering online appointments for them, and some also offer walk-in appointments with no prescheduling required.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Remember that pharmacies can’t vaccinate kids under 3, with the exception of CVS MinuteClinics, who are permitted to vaccinate kids as young as 18 months old. \u003ca href=\"#boosterskids\">Jump to more information about bivalent boosters for children under 5.\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.cvs.com/immunizations/covid-19-vaccine?icid=cvs-home-hero1-banner-1-link2-coronavirus-vaccine\">CVS COVID-19 vaccine appointments \u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.riteaid.com/pharmacy/covid-qualifier?utm_source=state&utm_medium=web&utm_campaign=Covid19&utm_content=Covid19scheduler_CA_2_12_21\">Rite Aid COVID-19 vaccine appointments\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.mhealthappointments.com/covidappt\">Safeway (Albertsons) COVID-19 vaccine appointments\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.walgreens.com/findcare/vaccination/covid-19?ban=covid_vaccine_landing_schedule\">Walgreens COVID-19 vaccine appointments\u003c/a>, or call (800) WALGREENS/(800) 925-4733\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.costco.com/covid-vaccine.html\">Costco’s COVID-19 vaccine appointments\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>2. Find a Moderna or Pfizer booster shot through My Turn.\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://myturn.ca.gov/\">My Turn is the state’s site\u003c/a> for Californians to schedule vaccination appointments, as supplies allow. You can also try to \u003ca href=\"https://myturn.ca.gov/clinic.html\">find walk-in appointments through My Turn\u003c/a>. Bivalent booster appointments for children under 5 are not yet available on My Turn, as of Dec. 15.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://myturn.ca.gov/\">If you visit the My Turn page\u003c/a>, select “Make an Appointment.” My Turn will ask for your information, and the ZIP code or location you’d like to use to search for vaccine appointments. You can give your home location, or input other locations to see which sites might be available farther away.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>You don’t need to be a resident or a worker in the particular county where your preferred vaccination site is located, according to the California Department of Public Health (CDPH), which manages My Turn. So don’t worry if the site suggests appointments in a different county.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you can’t travel to a clinic for your booster shot because of health or transportation issues, you can note this when registering on My Turn, and a representative from the CDPH is supposed to call you to arrange an in-home visit or transportation.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you’re trying to find an appointment at a certain location and can’t see it in the search results, try searching on My Turn for that site’s \u003cem>exact\u003c/em> ZIP code, rather than your own. Remember that if you’re not seeing a specific site in the search results, it might just be because of low supply or lack of available appointments. Most of the results may also likely be pharmacy locations, with a handful of public health clinics mixed in, so make sure to look through the list carefully to find your preferred provider.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>My Turn will ask you to provide a cellphone number and an email address. The state says this is so you can use two-factor authentication to confirm your identity and make your appointment, and to prevent bots from automatically scooping up available appointments online.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you don’t have an email address or a cellphone number, or you have questions, you can call the California COVID-19 hotline at (833) 422-4255 (Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-8 p.m., Saturday and Sunday 8 a.m.-5 p.m PT) and sign up over the phone. Both English-speaking and Spanish-speaking operators are available. Callers needing information in other languages will be connected to a translation service that offers assistance in over 250 languages.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_11889661\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\" style=\"max-width: 1920px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-11889661\" src=\"https://ww2.kqed.org/app/uploads/sites/10/2021/09/michigan_shot_gettyimages-1234850852-8f2a1402d5a0ab808313f55bdac52f950c8ad974-scaled-e1632414475184.jpg\" alt=\"Blue-gloved hands administer a vaccine into a shoulder.\" width=\"1920\" height=\"1440\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Rufus Peoples receives his booster dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech coronavirus vaccine during an Oakland County Health Department vaccination clinic at the Southfield Pavilion on Aug. 24, 2021, in Southfield, Michigan. \u003ccite>(Emily Elconin/Getty Images)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>3. Find a Moderna or Pfizer booster shot through your county.\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11855623/where-can-i-get-a-covid-19-vaccine-in-the-bay-area-your-questions-answered#county\">Visit your county’s public health website \u003c/a>to learn how your county is vaccinating its residents. If the county you work in is different from your county of residence, it’s likely you can get vaccinated in either county. The availability of vaccination appointments in your county will be based on the number of doses it has received from the state.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>You can also sign up to receive notifications via email from your county to be alerted when appointments become available. \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11855623/where-can-i-get-a-covid-19-vaccine-in-the-bay-area-your-questions-answered#county\">Find your Bay Area county in our list.\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>4. Find a Moderna or Pfizer booster shot through your health care provider.\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you have health insurance, check with your provider to see whether they can offer you a booster shot. If you don’t have health insurance but get medical care through a city- or county-run provider, you should check with that location to see whether they can offer you the booster.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>In addition to trying to talk with your health care provider directly, check the website of your provider to see whether it’s offering the ability to make appointments, and sign up for their vaccine notifications if that’s an option.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>A version of this story was originally published on December 6.\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Update September 26, 2024: Looking for how to order free COVID-19 tests through USPS? You can now read \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12006600/free-covid-tests-antigen-usps-order-2024-september\">our latest September 2024 guide to ordering your four free antigen kits from the federal government\u003c/a>, as this 2022 story below is out of date.\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Update Thursday, March 7: \u003c/strong>Friday — March 8, 2024 — is now your last chance to \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11901928/you-can-now-order-free-covid-at-home-tests-via-usps\">order four free at-home COVID-19 tests \u003c/a>from the federal government through the United States Postal Service (USPS).\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>A message on the \u003ca href=\"https://covidtests.gov/\">covidtests.gov\u003c/a> site states, “Ordering four free COVID-19 tests via this website will be suspended after Friday, March 8, 2024,” and that “All orders placed on or before March 8 will be delivered.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>To be extra safe you don’t miss this deadline, place an order for your free COVID-19 tests (if you’re eligible) before midnight Eastern time on Friday, which is 9 p.m. Pacific time. \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11940562/how-to-find-a-free-covid-test-near-you-in-2023-because-its-getting-harder\">Read more about the closure of the White House’s free COVID-19 test program.\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Update Friday, Sept. 22:\u003c/strong> Starting Monday, Sept. 25, you’ll be able to \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11940562/how-to-find-a-free-covid-test-near-you-in-2023-because-its-getting-harder\">order another four free COVID tests from the federal government through USPS\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Back on June 1, the federal government closed the program that allowed you to \u003ca href=\"https://covidtests.gov/\">order these free COVID tests in the mail\u003c/a>. But in a statement on Sept. 20, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HSS) said that the \u003ca href=\"https://covidtests.gov/\">covidtests.gov \u003c/a>program is restarting on Sept. 25.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>These tests, said HSS, “will detect the currently circulating COVID-19 variants, are intended for use through the end of 2023, and will include clear instructions on how to verify extended expiration dates.” Each household is eligible to receive four tests.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Read more about \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11940562/how-to-find-a-free-covid-test-near-you-in-2023-because-its-getting-harder\">how to order this latest round of free COVID tests, and other ways to find a free COVID test near you while you wait\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Original story:\u003c/strong> Starting Thursday, Dec. 15, you can once again \u003ca href=\"https://www.covidtests.gov/\">order more free at-home COVID-19 tests online\u003c/a> from the federal government and the U.S. Postal Service.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Since January, this White House program has offered free at-home COVID tests to every household in the United States, to be shipped by USPS. The tests and shipping are completely free of charge, and NPR reports that \u003ca href=\"https://www.npr.org/2022/12/15/1142926180/free-covid-tests-mail-order\">this latest round of four free tests will start to ship the week of Dec. 19\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The program ended back in September, but has now been revived amid rising COVID infection rates ahead of the holidays. The White House originally cited a lack of funding from Congress as the reason for ending the program. But \u003ca href=\"https://apnews.com/article/white-house-reveals-winter-covid-plans-test-kits-2b015ef4e3c97520a3981c47d00467c3\">the administration has now apparently reallocated funds from other virus programs to purchase more tests\u003c/a> while the Biden administration pursues congressional buy-in for additional COVID emergency funding, according to a senior administration official who spoke on the condition of anonymity.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Keep reading for what you need to know about these at-home tests.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Skip straight to:\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>\u003ca href=\"#problems\">Why am I having problems ordering my at-home COVID tests?\u003c/a>\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>\u003ca href=\"#reimburse\">I want to get reimbursed by my health insurer for tests instead.\u003c/a>\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003ch2>How many free COVID tests can my family and I get through USPS?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>For this new version of the free COVID test program, you can \u003ca href=\"https://special.usps.com/testkits\">place an online order for four free COVID tests\u003c/a> for your household today.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>(You might remember that when the program was running earlier this year, you were able to order multiple rounds of tests, and receive four tests per household each time. That’s no longer the case, and the White House is offering you just one order of four tests this time.)\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>You can \u003ca href=\"https://special.usps.com/testkits\">place your order for these four free COVID tests online at USPS.com\u003c/a>. According to NPR, \u003ca href=\"https://www.npr.org/2022/12/15/1142926180/free-covid-tests-mail-order\">this latest round of free tests will start to ship the week of Dec. 19\u003c/a>, meaning that if you order your tests as soon as possible, you could have them in good time for use during the holidays.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>This program is separate from the one that allows folks with private health insurance to get reimbursed for the cost of at-home COVID tests. \u003ca href=\"#reimburse\">Read more about getting reimbursed by your health insurer for at-home tests.\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>No payment or credit card details are required to place an order. You also don’t need to provide any ID or health insurance information. You can, however, supply an email address if you’d like to receive shipping notifications from the Postal Service via email.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>You also will not be asked for proof of citizenship or about your immigration status. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services says that \u003ca href=\"https://www.uscis.gov/green-card/green-card-processes-and-procedures/public-charge/public-charge-resources\">accessing free COVID testing (or getting a COVID vaccine) does not make you a public charge\u003c/a> and won’t affect any current or future green card applications.\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\">[aside postID=news_11902122 hero='https://ww2.kqed.org/app/uploads/sites/10/2022/01/RS53229_GettyImages-1237664205-qut-1020x707.jpg']\u003c/span>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you or someone in your community doesn’t have access to the internet to order online, the Postal Service says you can contact the \u003ca href=\"https://faq.usps.com/s/article/At-Home-COVID-19-Test-Kits#online_ordering\">CovidTests.gov test kit order-fulfillment help line\u003c/a> by calling (800) 232-0233 (TTY 1-888-720-7489). Please note that an earlier version of this number given on \u003ca href=\"https://faq.usps.com/s/article/At-Home-COVID-19-Test-Kits#online_ordering\">the Postal Service’s FAQ page\u003c/a> appears to have been the wrong one. You also should be prepared for potentially long wait times at this help line.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The Postal Service also offers a Disability Information and Access Line (DIAL) specifically to assist disabled people in placing their orders. You can call (888) 677-1199, Monday-Friday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET, or email dial@usaginganddisability.org.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Something very important to note: Every residential address (and \u003ca href=\"https://faq.usps.com/s/article/At-Home-COVID-19-Test-Kits\">residential P.O. box\u003c/a>) in the United States is eligible to receive one order of four at-home COVID tests — not every person or every family. This means multiple orders to the same address under different names won’t be processed.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>For example, if you live with several roommates, or in a large multigenerational household, only one person can place an order for that address. Realistically, this might mean that the tests you receive are not enough to cover everyone in your household.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>On its website, the Postal Service states that it will “limit [the number of orders to three] per residential address.” Each order includes four tests.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Tests are also available for residential addresses in U.S. territories and overseas military and diplomatic addresses (\u003ca href=\"https://www.usps.com/ship/apo-fpo-dpo.htm\">APO/FPO/DPO\u003c/a>).\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Can I pick up my tests instead of getting them delivered?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>The federal government’s FAQ for the free at-home COVID tests available via the Postal Service states that \u003ca href=\"https://www.covidtests.gov/faq/\">you cannot pick up your tests somewhere else\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>However, your county may be operating its own free at-home COVID test delivery/pickup program, or considering starting one. Check your county’s public health website.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>When will my free COVID at-home tests arrive?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>According to NPR, \u003ca href=\"https://www.npr.org/2022/12/15/1142926180/free-covid-tests-mail-order\">this latest round of free tests will start to ship the week of Dec. 19\u003c/a>. Previously, \u003ca href=\"https://www.covidtests.gov/\">the White House’s free COVID test home page\u003c/a> said that your order would “usually ship in 7-12 days,” but this information is no longer present on the site.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_11901954\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1920px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-11901954\" src=\"https://ww2.kqed.org/app/uploads/sites/10/2022/01/RS53139_GettyImages-1228962296-qut.jpg\" alt=\"A uniformed postal service worker stands inside her mail van, with USPS logo visible on side of van\" width=\"1920\" height=\"1280\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/01/RS53139_GettyImages-1228962296-qut.jpg 1920w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/01/RS53139_GettyImages-1228962296-qut-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/01/RS53139_GettyImages-1228962296-qut-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/01/RS53139_GettyImages-1228962296-qut-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/01/RS53139_GettyImages-1228962296-qut-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">A White House program offers free at-home COVID tests to every household in the United States, to be shipped by the Postal Service. Tests and shipping are free of charge. \u003ccite>(Nathan Howard/Getty Images)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003ch2>What kind of tests are these at-home COVID tests?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>These at-home COVID tests are antigen tests that you can use whenever and wherever you prefer, without requiring the assistance of a clinic. Your test results are usually available within 30 minutes, and these types of tests are good for telling you whether you’re actively infectious.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that you use an at-home test if:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>You begin to have COVID symptoms.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>It’s been at least five days since you came in close contact with someone who has COVID.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>You’re gathering indoors with a group of people who are at risk of severe disease, or who are unvaccinated.\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11901008/covid-tests-from-rapid-home-tests-to-pcr-heres-what-to-know-right-now#types\">Read more about the difference between at-home antigen tests and PCR tests.\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[aside postID=news_11901008 hero='https://ww2.kqed.org/app/uploads/sites/10/2022/01/GettyImages-1237588762-1020x680.jpg']\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>So I can order these free COVID tests for my household even if I don’t currently need to get tested?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>That’s right.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The White House has explicitly said that \u003ca href=\"https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2022/01/14/fact-sheet-the-biden-administration-to-begin-distributing-at-home-rapid-covid-19-tests-to-americans-for-free/\">the goal of these at-home test deliveries\u003c/a> is “to help ensure Americans have tests on hand if a need arises.” Go ahead and order yours.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>\u003ca id=\"problems\">\u003c/a>I’m having problems ordering my home COVID tests. What’s up?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>The Postal Service says it will send three sets of free tests to “valid residential addresses” (and \u003ca href=\"https://faq.usps.com/s/article/At-Home-COVID-19-Test-Kits\">residential P.O. boxes\u003c/a>). But this obviously creates problems for people who live in spaces that don’t fit the Postal Service’s definition of a valid residential address, from folks with less common mailing addresses (like half street numbers) to our unhoused neighbors.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The federal government’s FAQ states that, currently, \u003ca href=\"https://www.covidtests.gov/faq/\">you cannot pick up your tests somewhere\u003c/a> or have them held at your local post office instead of getting them shipped to your home. (\u003ca href=\"https://faq.usps.com/s/article/At-Home-COVID-19-Test-Kits\">Residential P.O. boxes \u003cem>are\u003c/em> acceptable, however.\u003c/a>)\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://faq.usps.com/s/article/At-Home-COVID-19-Test-Kits\">The Postal Service’s FAQ on ordering free at-home COVID tests \u003c/a>note that “some residents of multi-unit buildings may have difficulty placing orders” because the Postal Service’s system “does not recognize the address being entered as a single residence within a multi-unit building.” If that’s you, the Postal Service advises you to \u003ca href=\"https://emailus.usps.com/s/the-postal-store-inquiry\">file a service request\u003c/a> with them.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>When the program launched, there were isolated reports of issues relating to the website’s address-verification tool erroneously enforcing the four-per-household cap on apartment buildings and other multiunit dwellings, but it was not immediately clear how widespread the issue was.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you’re experiencing issues with ordering your at-home COVID tests, try refreshing the page and then attempting to order again — especially if your residential address includes an apartment number. You might also consider that someone in your household has already ordered all the orders set aside for your residential address.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If the system isn’t recognizing your address as valid, the \u003ca href=\"https://faq.usps.com/s/article/At-Home-COVID-19-Test-Kits\">Postal Service recommends that you confirm the proper formatting\u003c/a> of your address by using the \u003ca href=\"https://tools.usps.com/zip-code-lookup.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">USPS.com Look Up a ZIP Code\u003c/a> tool. “Once you validate your address, you may attempt ordering your tests again,” says the Postal Service.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>When the program launched, there were initially \u003ca href=\"https://twitter.com/jachristian/status/1483490855361024003\">complaints that people with a home address that was actually a commercial address\u003c/a>, or connected to a commercial building, could not place an order for their tests. USPS’s FAQs now say that\u003ca href=\"https://faq.usps.com/s/article/At-Home-COVID-19-Test-Kits#online_ordering\"> “Ordering eligibility has been expanded to include Commercial Mail Receiving Agencies.”\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you’re still having problems, the Postal Service says \u003ca href=\"https://emailus.usps.com/s/the-postal-store-inquiry\">you can file a service request\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If your problem is something else, try consulting these links to see whether your problem or error message is listed:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli style=\"list-style-type: none;\">\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://faq.usps.com/s/article/At-Home-COVID-19-Test-Kits\">U.S. Postal Service: FAQ on ordering free at-home COVID tests\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.covidtests.gov/faq/\">White House: FAQ on ordering free at-home COVID tests\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>The Postal Service says that people with questions about eligibility, the online ordering form, shipping or delivery can contact the Postal Service Help Desk at (800) ASK-USPS, or (800) 275-8777.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Remember, if you or someone in your community doesn’t have access to the internet to order online, the Postal Service says you can contact the \u003ca href=\"https://faq.usps.com/s/article/At-Home-COVID-19-Test-Kits#online_ordering\">covidtests.gov test kit order fulfillment help line\u003c/a> by calling (800) 232-0233 (TTY 1-888-720-7489). Please note that an earlier version of this number given on \u003ca href=\"https://faq.usps.com/s/article/At-Home-COVID-19-Test-Kits#online_ordering\">the Postal Service’s FAQ page\u003c/a> appears to have been the wrong one. You should also be prepared for potentially long wait times using this help line.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>We’ll be monitoring for updates on these issues, and looking for answers for folks who have been experiencing problems ordering their free at-home COVID tests. In the meantime, \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11898455/where-to-find-a-covid-test-near-you-in-the-bay-area\">get our advice on finding a free or low-cost COVID test near you\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad fullwidth]\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>How do I know which COVID at-home test order site is legit?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>The Federal Trade Commission has already warned that \u003ca href=\"https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/blog/2022/01/how-avoid-buying-fake-covid-tests-online\">scammers are popping up online to sell fake COVID tests\u003c/a>, so it’s especially important to know which websites are the right ones to request free at-home tests.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>There are only two authorized websites for requesting tests:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.covidtests.gov/\">Covidtests.gov\u003c/a> and its Spanish-language equivalent, \u003ca href=\"https://www.covidtests.gov/es\">covidtests.gov/es\u003c/a>.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>The Postal Service ordering portal that the above page links to, \u003ca href=\"https://special.usps.com/testkits\">special.usps.com/covidtest\u003c/a>, which is also available in \u003ca href=\"https://special.usps.com/testkits-zh\">Simplified Chinese\u003c/a> and \u003ca href=\"https://special.usps.com/testkits-es\">Spanish\u003c/a>.\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>Remember: These tests are free, so you will \u003cem>never\u003c/em> be prompted to share your financial information, health insurance details, Social Security number or immigration status.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>You are required to share only your full name and address to order your free COVID tests. So remember: If a site is asking you to give more information than that, it’s very likely that you are on the wrong website.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_11890084\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\" style=\"max-width: 1452px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-11890084 size-full\" src=\"https://ww2.kqed.org/app/uploads/sites/10/2021/09/092521_RapdiCovidTest_PG_sized_05.jpeg\" alt=\"An open COVID test card. The card is white and indicates through black-and-white graphic illustrations how the swab should be used to collect the sample. A pair of blue-gloved hands inserts the swab into the card.\" width=\"1452\" height=\"2000\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2021/09/092521_RapdiCovidTest_PG_sized_05.jpeg 1452w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2021/09/092521_RapdiCovidTest_PG_sized_05-800x1102.jpeg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2021/09/092521_RapdiCovidTest_PG_sized_05-1020x1405.jpeg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2021/09/092521_RapdiCovidTest_PG_sized_05-160x220.jpeg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2021/09/092521_RapdiCovidTest_PG_sized_05-1115x1536.jpeg 1115w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1452px) 100vw, 1452px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">A rapid antigen test at the Canal Alliance COVID-19 testing site in San Rafael, on Sept. 25, 2021. \u003ccite>(Penni Gladstone/CalMatters)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003ch2>\u003ca id=\"reimburse\">\u003c/a>Is this different from getting my insurer to reimburse me for tests?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>Yes. As of January 15, \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11902122/at-home-covid-test-reimbursement-from-blue-shield-to-kaiser-how-to-get-your-health-insurance-to-pay-you-back\">people with private health insurance can get reimbursed by their insurer\u003c/a> for the cost of up to eight at-home COVID tests per month.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>This program applies only to at-home tests purchased on or after January 15, and covers eight free tests \u003cem>per covered individual\u003c/em> per month. “That means \u003ca href=\"https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2022/01/14/fact-sheet-the-biden-administration-to-begin-distributing-at-home-rapid-covid-19-tests-to-americans-for-free/\">a family of four, all on the same plan, would be able to get 32 of these tests\u003c/a> covered by their health plan per month,” confirmed the White House.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you have private health insurance, how you get your reimbursement and your tests, and whether you get reimbursed after purchase or have costs covered up front, totally depends on which insurer you have. Each insurance company is doing this differently, so make sure you know what’s available for you according to your plan \u003cem>before\u003c/em> you buy a test.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>People covered by Medicare are not eligible to get reimbursed for at-home COVID-19 tests. However, Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) plans \u003cem>are\u003c/em> required to cover the costs of at-home tests.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11902122/at-home-covid-test-reimbursement-from-blue-shield-to-kaiser-how-to-get-your-health-insurance-to-pay-you-back\">Read our full guide to getting reimbursed by your health care provider for the cost of at-home COVID tests.\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ci>This story includes reporting from The Associated Press and NPR. An earlier version of this story originally published on August 31.\u003c/i>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad floatright]\u003c/p>\n",
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"excerpt": "Starting Dec. 15, you can once again order four more free at-home COVID-19 tests online from the federal government and the US Postal Service. Here's how.",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Update September 26, 2024: Looking for how to order free COVID-19 tests through USPS? You can now read \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12006600/free-covid-tests-antigen-usps-order-2024-september\">our latest September 2024 guide to ordering your four free antigen kits from the federal government\u003c/a>, as this 2022 story below is out of date.\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Update Thursday, March 7: \u003c/strong>Friday — March 8, 2024 — is now your last chance to \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11901928/you-can-now-order-free-covid-at-home-tests-via-usps\">order four free at-home COVID-19 tests \u003c/a>from the federal government through the United States Postal Service (USPS).\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>A message on the \u003ca href=\"https://covidtests.gov/\">covidtests.gov\u003c/a> site states, “Ordering four free COVID-19 tests via this website will be suspended after Friday, March 8, 2024,” and that “All orders placed on or before March 8 will be delivered.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>To be extra safe you don’t miss this deadline, place an order for your free COVID-19 tests (if you’re eligible) before midnight Eastern time on Friday, which is 9 p.m. Pacific time. \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11940562/how-to-find-a-free-covid-test-near-you-in-2023-because-its-getting-harder\">Read more about the closure of the White House’s free COVID-19 test program.\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Update Friday, Sept. 22:\u003c/strong> Starting Monday, Sept. 25, you’ll be able to \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11940562/how-to-find-a-free-covid-test-near-you-in-2023-because-its-getting-harder\">order another four free COVID tests from the federal government through USPS\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Back on June 1, the federal government closed the program that allowed you to \u003ca href=\"https://covidtests.gov/\">order these free COVID tests in the mail\u003c/a>. But in a statement on Sept. 20, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HSS) said that the \u003ca href=\"https://covidtests.gov/\">covidtests.gov \u003c/a>program is restarting on Sept. 25.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>These tests, said HSS, “will detect the currently circulating COVID-19 variants, are intended for use through the end of 2023, and will include clear instructions on how to verify extended expiration dates.” Each household is eligible to receive four tests.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Read more about \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11940562/how-to-find-a-free-covid-test-near-you-in-2023-because-its-getting-harder\">how to order this latest round of free COVID tests, and other ways to find a free COVID test near you while you wait\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Original story:\u003c/strong> Starting Thursday, Dec. 15, you can once again \u003ca href=\"https://www.covidtests.gov/\">order more free at-home COVID-19 tests online\u003c/a> from the federal government and the U.S. Postal Service.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Since January, this White House program has offered free at-home COVID tests to every household in the United States, to be shipped by USPS. The tests and shipping are completely free of charge, and NPR reports that \u003ca href=\"https://www.npr.org/2022/12/15/1142926180/free-covid-tests-mail-order\">this latest round of four free tests will start to ship the week of Dec. 19\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The program ended back in September, but has now been revived amid rising COVID infection rates ahead of the holidays. The White House originally cited a lack of funding from Congress as the reason for ending the program. But \u003ca href=\"https://apnews.com/article/white-house-reveals-winter-covid-plans-test-kits-2b015ef4e3c97520a3981c47d00467c3\">the administration has now apparently reallocated funds from other virus programs to purchase more tests\u003c/a> while the Biden administration pursues congressional buy-in for additional COVID emergency funding, according to a senior administration official who spoke on the condition of anonymity.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Keep reading for what you need to know about these at-home tests.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Skip straight to:\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>\u003ca href=\"#problems\">Why am I having problems ordering my at-home COVID tests?\u003c/a>\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>\u003ca href=\"#reimburse\">I want to get reimbursed by my health insurer for tests instead.\u003c/a>\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003ch2>How many free COVID tests can my family and I get through USPS?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>For this new version of the free COVID test program, you can \u003ca href=\"https://special.usps.com/testkits\">place an online order for four free COVID tests\u003c/a> for your household today.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>(You might remember that when the program was running earlier this year, you were able to order multiple rounds of tests, and receive four tests per household each time. That’s no longer the case, and the White House is offering you just one order of four tests this time.)\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>You can \u003ca href=\"https://special.usps.com/testkits\">place your order for these four free COVID tests online at USPS.com\u003c/a>. According to NPR, \u003ca href=\"https://www.npr.org/2022/12/15/1142926180/free-covid-tests-mail-order\">this latest round of free tests will start to ship the week of Dec. 19\u003c/a>, meaning that if you order your tests as soon as possible, you could have them in good time for use during the holidays.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>This program is separate from the one that allows folks with private health insurance to get reimbursed for the cost of at-home COVID tests. \u003ca href=\"#reimburse\">Read more about getting reimbursed by your health insurer for at-home tests.\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>No payment or credit card details are required to place an order. You also don’t need to provide any ID or health insurance information. You can, however, supply an email address if you’d like to receive shipping notifications from the Postal Service via email.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>You also will not be asked for proof of citizenship or about your immigration status. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services says that \u003ca href=\"https://www.uscis.gov/green-card/green-card-processes-and-procedures/public-charge/public-charge-resources\">accessing free COVID testing (or getting a COVID vaccine) does not make you a public charge\u003c/a> and won’t affect any current or future green card applications.\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003c/span>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you or someone in your community doesn’t have access to the internet to order online, the Postal Service says you can contact the \u003ca href=\"https://faq.usps.com/s/article/At-Home-COVID-19-Test-Kits#online_ordering\">CovidTests.gov test kit order-fulfillment help line\u003c/a> by calling (800) 232-0233 (TTY 1-888-720-7489). Please note that an earlier version of this number given on \u003ca href=\"https://faq.usps.com/s/article/At-Home-COVID-19-Test-Kits#online_ordering\">the Postal Service’s FAQ page\u003c/a> appears to have been the wrong one. You also should be prepared for potentially long wait times at this help line.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The Postal Service also offers a Disability Information and Access Line (DIAL) specifically to assist disabled people in placing their orders. You can call (888) 677-1199, Monday-Friday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET, or email dial@usaginganddisability.org.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Something very important to note: Every residential address (and \u003ca href=\"https://faq.usps.com/s/article/At-Home-COVID-19-Test-Kits\">residential P.O. box\u003c/a>) in the United States is eligible to receive one order of four at-home COVID tests — not every person or every family. This means multiple orders to the same address under different names won’t be processed.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>For example, if you live with several roommates, or in a large multigenerational household, only one person can place an order for that address. Realistically, this might mean that the tests you receive are not enough to cover everyone in your household.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>On its website, the Postal Service states that it will “limit [the number of orders to three] per residential address.” Each order includes four tests.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Tests are also available for residential addresses in U.S. territories and overseas military and diplomatic addresses (\u003ca href=\"https://www.usps.com/ship/apo-fpo-dpo.htm\">APO/FPO/DPO\u003c/a>).\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Can I pick up my tests instead of getting them delivered?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>The federal government’s FAQ for the free at-home COVID tests available via the Postal Service states that \u003ca href=\"https://www.covidtests.gov/faq/\">you cannot pick up your tests somewhere else\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>However, your county may be operating its own free at-home COVID test delivery/pickup program, or considering starting one. Check your county’s public health website.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>When will my free COVID at-home tests arrive?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>According to NPR, \u003ca href=\"https://www.npr.org/2022/12/15/1142926180/free-covid-tests-mail-order\">this latest round of free tests will start to ship the week of Dec. 19\u003c/a>. Previously, \u003ca href=\"https://www.covidtests.gov/\">the White House’s free COVID test home page\u003c/a> said that your order would “usually ship in 7-12 days,” but this information is no longer present on the site.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_11901954\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1920px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-11901954\" src=\"https://ww2.kqed.org/app/uploads/sites/10/2022/01/RS53139_GettyImages-1228962296-qut.jpg\" alt=\"A uniformed postal service worker stands inside her mail van, with USPS logo visible on side of van\" width=\"1920\" height=\"1280\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/01/RS53139_GettyImages-1228962296-qut.jpg 1920w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/01/RS53139_GettyImages-1228962296-qut-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/01/RS53139_GettyImages-1228962296-qut-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/01/RS53139_GettyImages-1228962296-qut-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/01/RS53139_GettyImages-1228962296-qut-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">A White House program offers free at-home COVID tests to every household in the United States, to be shipped by the Postal Service. Tests and shipping are free of charge. \u003ccite>(Nathan Howard/Getty Images)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003ch2>What kind of tests are these at-home COVID tests?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>These at-home COVID tests are antigen tests that you can use whenever and wherever you prefer, without requiring the assistance of a clinic. Your test results are usually available within 30 minutes, and these types of tests are good for telling you whether you’re actively infectious.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that you use an at-home test if:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>You begin to have COVID symptoms.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>It’s been at least five days since you came in close contact with someone who has COVID.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>You’re gathering indoors with a group of people who are at risk of severe disease, or who are unvaccinated.\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11901008/covid-tests-from-rapid-home-tests-to-pcr-heres-what-to-know-right-now#types\">Read more about the difference between at-home antigen tests and PCR tests.\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>So I can order these free COVID tests for my household even if I don’t currently need to get tested?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>That’s right.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The White House has explicitly said that \u003ca href=\"https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2022/01/14/fact-sheet-the-biden-administration-to-begin-distributing-at-home-rapid-covid-19-tests-to-americans-for-free/\">the goal of these at-home test deliveries\u003c/a> is “to help ensure Americans have tests on hand if a need arises.” Go ahead and order yours.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>\u003ca id=\"problems\">\u003c/a>I’m having problems ordering my home COVID tests. What’s up?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>The Postal Service says it will send three sets of free tests to “valid residential addresses” (and \u003ca href=\"https://faq.usps.com/s/article/At-Home-COVID-19-Test-Kits\">residential P.O. boxes\u003c/a>). But this obviously creates problems for people who live in spaces that don’t fit the Postal Service’s definition of a valid residential address, from folks with less common mailing addresses (like half street numbers) to our unhoused neighbors.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The federal government’s FAQ states that, currently, \u003ca href=\"https://www.covidtests.gov/faq/\">you cannot pick up your tests somewhere\u003c/a> or have them held at your local post office instead of getting them shipped to your home. (\u003ca href=\"https://faq.usps.com/s/article/At-Home-COVID-19-Test-Kits\">Residential P.O. boxes \u003cem>are\u003c/em> acceptable, however.\u003c/a>)\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://faq.usps.com/s/article/At-Home-COVID-19-Test-Kits\">The Postal Service’s FAQ on ordering free at-home COVID tests \u003c/a>note that “some residents of multi-unit buildings may have difficulty placing orders” because the Postal Service’s system “does not recognize the address being entered as a single residence within a multi-unit building.” If that’s you, the Postal Service advises you to \u003ca href=\"https://emailus.usps.com/s/the-postal-store-inquiry\">file a service request\u003c/a> with them.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>When the program launched, there were isolated reports of issues relating to the website’s address-verification tool erroneously enforcing the four-per-household cap on apartment buildings and other multiunit dwellings, but it was not immediately clear how widespread the issue was.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you’re experiencing issues with ordering your at-home COVID tests, try refreshing the page and then attempting to order again — especially if your residential address includes an apartment number. You might also consider that someone in your household has already ordered all the orders set aside for your residential address.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If the system isn’t recognizing your address as valid, the \u003ca href=\"https://faq.usps.com/s/article/At-Home-COVID-19-Test-Kits\">Postal Service recommends that you confirm the proper formatting\u003c/a> of your address by using the \u003ca href=\"https://tools.usps.com/zip-code-lookup.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">USPS.com Look Up a ZIP Code\u003c/a> tool. “Once you validate your address, you may attempt ordering your tests again,” says the Postal Service.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>When the program launched, there were initially \u003ca href=\"https://twitter.com/jachristian/status/1483490855361024003\">complaints that people with a home address that was actually a commercial address\u003c/a>, or connected to a commercial building, could not place an order for their tests. USPS’s FAQs now say that\u003ca href=\"https://faq.usps.com/s/article/At-Home-COVID-19-Test-Kits#online_ordering\"> “Ordering eligibility has been expanded to include Commercial Mail Receiving Agencies.”\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you’re still having problems, the Postal Service says \u003ca href=\"https://emailus.usps.com/s/the-postal-store-inquiry\">you can file a service request\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If your problem is something else, try consulting these links to see whether your problem or error message is listed:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli style=\"list-style-type: none;\">\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://faq.usps.com/s/article/At-Home-COVID-19-Test-Kits\">U.S. Postal Service: FAQ on ordering free at-home COVID tests\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.covidtests.gov/faq/\">White House: FAQ on ordering free at-home COVID tests\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>The Postal Service says that people with questions about eligibility, the online ordering form, shipping or delivery can contact the Postal Service Help Desk at (800) ASK-USPS, or (800) 275-8777.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Remember, if you or someone in your community doesn’t have access to the internet to order online, the Postal Service says you can contact the \u003ca href=\"https://faq.usps.com/s/article/At-Home-COVID-19-Test-Kits#online_ordering\">covidtests.gov test kit order fulfillment help line\u003c/a> by calling (800) 232-0233 (TTY 1-888-720-7489). Please note that an earlier version of this number given on \u003ca href=\"https://faq.usps.com/s/article/At-Home-COVID-19-Test-Kits#online_ordering\">the Postal Service’s FAQ page\u003c/a> appears to have been the wrong one. You should also be prepared for potentially long wait times using this help line.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>We’ll be monitoring for updates on these issues, and looking for answers for folks who have been experiencing problems ordering their free at-home COVID tests. In the meantime, \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11898455/where-to-find-a-covid-test-near-you-in-the-bay-area\">get our advice on finding a free or low-cost COVID test near you\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>How do I know which COVID at-home test order site is legit?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>The Federal Trade Commission has already warned that \u003ca href=\"https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/blog/2022/01/how-avoid-buying-fake-covid-tests-online\">scammers are popping up online to sell fake COVID tests\u003c/a>, so it’s especially important to know which websites are the right ones to request free at-home tests.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>There are only two authorized websites for requesting tests:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.covidtests.gov/\">Covidtests.gov\u003c/a> and its Spanish-language equivalent, \u003ca href=\"https://www.covidtests.gov/es\">covidtests.gov/es\u003c/a>.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>The Postal Service ordering portal that the above page links to, \u003ca href=\"https://special.usps.com/testkits\">special.usps.com/covidtest\u003c/a>, which is also available in \u003ca href=\"https://special.usps.com/testkits-zh\">Simplified Chinese\u003c/a> and \u003ca href=\"https://special.usps.com/testkits-es\">Spanish\u003c/a>.\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>Remember: These tests are free, so you will \u003cem>never\u003c/em> be prompted to share your financial information, health insurance details, Social Security number or immigration status.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>You are required to share only your full name and address to order your free COVID tests. So remember: If a site is asking you to give more information than that, it’s very likely that you are on the wrong website.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_11890084\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\" style=\"max-width: 1452px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-11890084 size-full\" src=\"https://ww2.kqed.org/app/uploads/sites/10/2021/09/092521_RapdiCovidTest_PG_sized_05.jpeg\" alt=\"An open COVID test card. The card is white and indicates through black-and-white graphic illustrations how the swab should be used to collect the sample. A pair of blue-gloved hands inserts the swab into the card.\" width=\"1452\" height=\"2000\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2021/09/092521_RapdiCovidTest_PG_sized_05.jpeg 1452w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2021/09/092521_RapdiCovidTest_PG_sized_05-800x1102.jpeg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2021/09/092521_RapdiCovidTest_PG_sized_05-1020x1405.jpeg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2021/09/092521_RapdiCovidTest_PG_sized_05-160x220.jpeg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2021/09/092521_RapdiCovidTest_PG_sized_05-1115x1536.jpeg 1115w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1452px) 100vw, 1452px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">A rapid antigen test at the Canal Alliance COVID-19 testing site in San Rafael, on Sept. 25, 2021. \u003ccite>(Penni Gladstone/CalMatters)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003ch2>\u003ca id=\"reimburse\">\u003c/a>Is this different from getting my insurer to reimburse me for tests?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>Yes. As of January 15, \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11902122/at-home-covid-test-reimbursement-from-blue-shield-to-kaiser-how-to-get-your-health-insurance-to-pay-you-back\">people with private health insurance can get reimbursed by their insurer\u003c/a> for the cost of up to eight at-home COVID tests per month.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>This program applies only to at-home tests purchased on or after January 15, and covers eight free tests \u003cem>per covered individual\u003c/em> per month. “That means \u003ca href=\"https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2022/01/14/fact-sheet-the-biden-administration-to-begin-distributing-at-home-rapid-covid-19-tests-to-americans-for-free/\">a family of four, all on the same plan, would be able to get 32 of these tests\u003c/a> covered by their health plan per month,” confirmed the White House.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you have private health insurance, how you get your reimbursement and your tests, and whether you get reimbursed after purchase or have costs covered up front, totally depends on which insurer you have. Each insurance company is doing this differently, so make sure you know what’s available for you according to your plan \u003cem>before\u003c/em> you buy a test.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>People covered by Medicare are not eligible to get reimbursed for at-home COVID-19 tests. However, Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) plans \u003cem>are\u003c/em> required to cover the costs of at-home tests.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11902122/at-home-covid-test-reimbursement-from-blue-shield-to-kaiser-how-to-get-your-health-insurance-to-pay-you-back\">Read our full guide to getting reimbursed by your health care provider for the cost of at-home COVID tests.\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ci>This story includes reporting from The Associated Press and NPR. An earlier version of this story originally published on August 31.\u003c/i>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cp>As Thanksgiving fast approaches and the holiday season gets underway, California public health leaders are urging folks to bolster protections against a triple threat of respiratory viruses: RSV (respiratory syncytial virus), flu and COVID-19.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“In every category that we track — whether it’s test positivity, case rate numbers, wastewater surveillance, hospitalizations — we’re seeing increases for RSV, flu and COVID,” said Dr. Mark Ghaly, secretary of California Health and Human Services, during a news conference last week.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>According to Ghaly, COVID transmission — both in test positivity and case rates — was up by 25% over the past one to two weeks.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>This is further compounded by an alarming uptick in cases of flu and RSV, \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/science/1980524/bay-area-childrens-hospitals-strained-as-rsv-surge-arrives\">a respiratory virus that primarily affects infants and has been straining hospitals across the region\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Another concerning statewide trend? The vaccine uptake for the bivalent booster is low. \u003ca href=\"https://covid19.ca.gov/vaccination-progress-data/#overview\">Only around 16% of eligible Californians have gotten a second booster.\u003c/a>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\">[aside postID='news_11924327,news_11914514' label='Resources for staying safe this holiday season']\u003c/span>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“I think people are kind of tired of talking about getting boosted, and this is another reason why we need to talk about this,” said Dr. Kavita Trivedi, communicable disease controller for Alameda County’s public health department. “We know that these boosters are still really good at preventing severe disease and hospitalization.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Along with rapid testing and the expansion of treatment options like Paxlovid, boosters can help lower the risk of gathering together, said Dr. Mychi Nguyen, chief medical officer at Asian Health Services, a community health provider with sites across Oakland.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“I would tell folks, ‘Have a plan,'” for gathering over the holidays, she said. “It’s very important to make one before, during and after.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Nguyen talked with KQED’s Brian Watt about how to reduce the health risks of gathering this Thanksgiving — for yourself and your loved ones. Keep reading for the highlights of their conversation, which have been edited for length and clarity.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>BRIAN WATT: Are you concerned hospitals and clinics will be overwhelmed in the coming weeks?\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>DR. MYCHI NGUYEN:\u003c/strong> As we’re approaching the holiday season, we do expect respiratory viruses to increase as people gather with their loved ones and celebrate more.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>We know that both flu and RSV are circulating earlier this year, with right now not a lot of folks getting boosters or their flu shots. And with the workforce shortage, we’re seeing that hospitals are getting overwhelmed with the number of cases.\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\">[pullquote size='medium' align='right' citation=\"Dr. Mychi Nguyen, chief medical officer, Asian Health Services\"]‘I would say ‘yes’ to celebrating — with some precautions.’[/pullquote]\u003c/span>\u003cstrong>Given all this, is it a good idea for folks to be getting together for Thanksgiving — in the way we’re used to doing that?\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>I would say “yes” to celebrating — with some precautions.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>I would recommend that folks get tested the morning of, if you’re going to have a holiday dinner. And limit your interactions with folks the weeks and days coming up for the holidays. Something that you may consider is limiting your interactions in crowds.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>We know that in California — in the Bay Area in particular — if you can have good weather, dine outdoors if possible. Or if it is indoors, have really good ventilation.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And even despite your best efforts, if someone does get ill or if you have symptoms, then make sure that you \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11914514/if-you-get-covid-should-you-try-to-get-paxlovid-heres-how-with-or-without-health-insurance\">get tested right away and seek treatment\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Is COVID testing something you should factor into a plan?\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Yes, you don’t want to be the dreaded spreader, especially to a vulnerable loved one. So I would recommend testing the day of or the morning of, if you’re going to gather later that day.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>It will allow for folks who do test positive to know right away — even if you don’t have symptoms — to know to stay home, and probably join in via Zoom, or other ways. And if you’re \u003cem>having\u003c/em> symptoms, if you’re feeling ill, definitely stay home and don’t gather and find other ways to celebrate.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>If you do get infected with COVID, tell us more about the treatment options.\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>As soon as you have symptoms, it is important to test right away, and \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11914514/if-you-get-covid-should-you-try-to-get-paxlovid-heres-how-with-or-without-health-insurance\">if you are positive, it’s important to seek treatment\u003c/a>. Most adults and some children 12 years and above are eligible. And a lot of folks do not know that they’re eligible for treatment.\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\">[pullquote size='medium' align='right' citation=\"Dr. Mychi Nguyen, chief medical officer, Asian Health Services\"]‘You don’t want to be the dreaded spreader, especially to a vulnerable loved one. So I would recommend testing the day of or the morning of, if you’re going to gather later that day.’[/pullquote]\u003c/span>Treatment and the medications can prevent risk of hospitalizations and death up to 88%. You must act quickly for the effectiveness to take. It’s usually within the first five to seven days of symptom onset. Treatment is free.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>How useful is it to get boosted right before the holidays? Are we talking about some immediate protection if someone goes and gets boosted right away?\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Full immunity will occur in about two weeks. So really, as we’re approaching the holidays, \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11924327/where-can-i-find-a-new-omicron-covid-booster-shot-near-me\">getting vaccinated as soon as possible is very important\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>You mentioned not a lot of folks have gotten their booster. Do you get this sense as well that there is vaccine fatigue?\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>There is a sense of vaccine fatigue that I’m seeing in the clinic. One of the things that I do [with patients] is exploring \u003cem>why\u003c/em>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Some of the concerns are perhaps side effects. And so I would ask them what happened at their previous vaccination, and we would talk about making a plan if there’s some pain or a fever.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Usually those symptoms last for a couple days. We tell folks that getting COVID creates potentially more illness and [they] also [could] develop long COVID. And so the short-term benefits outweigh a lot of getting sick from COVID long-term.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Is it concerning that you’re still hearing some of this hesitation as we enter the third year of this pandemic?\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>It is concerning. One thing that we know is that COVID is still with us. It is something that we are learning to live with, and it is very different from before.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>We are in a much better place with vaccines, with testing, with treatment and really getting that information out there. Those strategies should continue to be strategies that help to fight against COVID.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad fullwidth]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>How do you get the word out at this moment about the importance of getting the bivalent booster? What is this outreach looking like on the ground?\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>At Asian Health Services, we serve patients in English and 14 Asian languages. And we know that if folks do not have access in language, it is very, very difficult to even get testing, or vaccinations, or treatment or to learn how to prevent or take care of themselves if they do get sick. So we really provide that cultural competency, that language outreach in different ethnic media. We send patient newsletters. We go and do outreach into the community, and make sure that websites are translated into the different languages.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>One thing we also know is that in addition to the language barrier, there is a digital divide. Anyone who has helped a family member navigate online accounts or get to a website knows that if you are not tech-savvy, you can get left behind in terms of accessing a lot of these resources.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad floatright]\u003c/p>\n",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003cp>As Thanksgiving fast approaches and the holiday season gets underway, California public health leaders are urging folks to bolster protections against a triple threat of respiratory viruses: RSV (respiratory syncytial virus), flu and COVID-19.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“In every category that we track — whether it’s test positivity, case rate numbers, wastewater surveillance, hospitalizations — we’re seeing increases for RSV, flu and COVID,” said Dr. Mark Ghaly, secretary of California Health and Human Services, during a news conference last week.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>According to Ghaly, COVID transmission — both in test positivity and case rates — was up by 25% over the past one to two weeks.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>This is further compounded by an alarming uptick in cases of flu and RSV, \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/science/1980524/bay-area-childrens-hospitals-strained-as-rsv-surge-arrives\">a respiratory virus that primarily affects infants and has been straining hospitals across the region\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Another concerning statewide trend? The vaccine uptake for the bivalent booster is low. \u003ca href=\"https://covid19.ca.gov/vaccination-progress-data/#overview\">Only around 16% of eligible Californians have gotten a second booster.\u003c/a>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003c/span>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“I think people are kind of tired of talking about getting boosted, and this is another reason why we need to talk about this,” said Dr. Kavita Trivedi, communicable disease controller for Alameda County’s public health department. “We know that these boosters are still really good at preventing severe disease and hospitalization.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Along with rapid testing and the expansion of treatment options like Paxlovid, boosters can help lower the risk of gathering together, said Dr. Mychi Nguyen, chief medical officer at Asian Health Services, a community health provider with sites across Oakland.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“I would tell folks, ‘Have a plan,'” for gathering over the holidays, she said. “It’s very important to make one before, during and after.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Nguyen talked with KQED’s Brian Watt about how to reduce the health risks of gathering this Thanksgiving — for yourself and your loved ones. Keep reading for the highlights of their conversation, which have been edited for length and clarity.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>BRIAN WATT: Are you concerned hospitals and clinics will be overwhelmed in the coming weeks?\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>DR. MYCHI NGUYEN:\u003c/strong> As we’re approaching the holiday season, we do expect respiratory viruses to increase as people gather with their loved ones and celebrate more.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>We know that both flu and RSV are circulating earlier this year, with right now not a lot of folks getting boosters or their flu shots. And with the workforce shortage, we’re seeing that hospitals are getting overwhelmed with the number of cases.\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003c/span>\u003cstrong>Given all this, is it a good idea for folks to be getting together for Thanksgiving — in the way we’re used to doing that?\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>I would say “yes” to celebrating — with some precautions.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>I would recommend that folks get tested the morning of, if you’re going to have a holiday dinner. And limit your interactions with folks the weeks and days coming up for the holidays. Something that you may consider is limiting your interactions in crowds.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>We know that in California — in the Bay Area in particular — if you can have good weather, dine outdoors if possible. Or if it is indoors, have really good ventilation.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And even despite your best efforts, if someone does get ill or if you have symptoms, then make sure that you \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11914514/if-you-get-covid-should-you-try-to-get-paxlovid-heres-how-with-or-without-health-insurance\">get tested right away and seek treatment\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Is COVID testing something you should factor into a plan?\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Yes, you don’t want to be the dreaded spreader, especially to a vulnerable loved one. So I would recommend testing the day of or the morning of, if you’re going to gather later that day.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>It will allow for folks who do test positive to know right away — even if you don’t have symptoms — to know to stay home, and probably join in via Zoom, or other ways. And if you’re \u003cem>having\u003c/em> symptoms, if you’re feeling ill, definitely stay home and don’t gather and find other ways to celebrate.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>If you do get infected with COVID, tell us more about the treatment options.\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>As soon as you have symptoms, it is important to test right away, and \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11914514/if-you-get-covid-should-you-try-to-get-paxlovid-heres-how-with-or-without-health-insurance\">if you are positive, it’s important to seek treatment\u003c/a>. Most adults and some children 12 years and above are eligible. And a lot of folks do not know that they’re eligible for treatment.\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003c/span>Treatment and the medications can prevent risk of hospitalizations and death up to 88%. You must act quickly for the effectiveness to take. It’s usually within the first five to seven days of symptom onset. Treatment is free.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>How useful is it to get boosted right before the holidays? Are we talking about some immediate protection if someone goes and gets boosted right away?\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Full immunity will occur in about two weeks. So really, as we’re approaching the holidays, \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11924327/where-can-i-find-a-new-omicron-covid-booster-shot-near-me\">getting vaccinated as soon as possible is very important\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>You mentioned not a lot of folks have gotten their booster. Do you get this sense as well that there is vaccine fatigue?\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>There is a sense of vaccine fatigue that I’m seeing in the clinic. One of the things that I do [with patients] is exploring \u003cem>why\u003c/em>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Some of the concerns are perhaps side effects. And so I would ask them what happened at their previous vaccination, and we would talk about making a plan if there’s some pain or a fever.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Usually those symptoms last for a couple days. We tell folks that getting COVID creates potentially more illness and [they] also [could] develop long COVID. And so the short-term benefits outweigh a lot of getting sick from COVID long-term.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Is it concerning that you’re still hearing some of this hesitation as we enter the third year of this pandemic?\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>It is concerning. One thing that we know is that COVID is still with us. It is something that we are learning to live with, and it is very different from before.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>We are in a much better place with vaccines, with testing, with treatment and really getting that information out there. Those strategies should continue to be strategies that help to fight against COVID.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>How do you get the word out at this moment about the importance of getting the bivalent booster? What is this outreach looking like on the ground?\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>At Asian Health Services, we serve patients in English and 14 Asian languages. And we know that if folks do not have access in language, it is very, very difficult to even get testing, or vaccinations, or treatment or to learn how to prevent or take care of themselves if they do get sick. So we really provide that cultural competency, that language outreach in different ethnic media. We send patient newsletters. We go and do outreach into the community, and make sure that websites are translated into the different languages.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>One thing we also know is that in addition to the language barrier, there is a digital divide. Anyone who has helped a family member navigate online accounts or get to a website knows that if you are not tech-savvy, you can get left behind in terms of accessing a lot of these resources.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cp>The U.S. on Wednesday authorized updated COVID-19 boosters for children as young as 5, seeking to expand protection ahead of an expected winter wave.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11924327/where-can-i-find-a-new-omicron-covid-booster-shot-near-me\">Tweaked boosters rolled out for Americans 12 and older last month\u003c/a>, doses modified to target today's most common and contagious omicron relative. While there wasn't a big rush, federal health officials are urging that people seek the extra protection ahead of holiday gatherings.\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">[aside postID=news_11924327 hero='https://ww2.kqed.org/app/uploads/sites/10/2022/09/RS58338_GettyImages-1242749971-qut.jpg]\u003c/span>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Now the Food and Drug Administration has given a green light for elementary school-age kids to get the updated booster doses, too — one made by Pfizer for 5- to 11-year-olds, and a version from rival Moderna for those as young as 6.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which recommends how vaccines are used, also signed off.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Americans may be tired of repeated calls to get boosted against COVID-19 but experts say the updated shots have an advantage: They contain half the recipe that targeted the original coronavirus strain and half protection against the dominant BA.4 and BA.5 omicron versions.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad fullwidth]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11924327/where-can-i-find-a-new-omicron-covid-booster-shot-near-me\">These combination or \"bivalent\" boosters are designed to broaden immune defenses\u003c/a> so that people are better protected against serious illness whether they encounter an omicron relative in the coming months — or a different mutant that's more like the original virus.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\"We want to have the best of both worlds,\" Pfizer's Dr. Bill Gruber, a pediatrician, told The Associated Press. He hopes the updated shots will \"re-energize interest in protecting children for the winter.\"\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The updated boosters are \"extremely important\" for keeping kids healthy and in school, said Dr. Jason Newland, a pediatric infectious disease specialist at Washington University in St. Louis.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Parents should know \"there is no concern from the safety perspective with the bivalent vaccines, whether Moderna or Pfizer,\" Newland added.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Only people who've gotten their initial vaccinations — with any of the original-formula versions — qualify for an updated booster. That means about three-fourths of Americans 12 and older are eligible. As of last weekend, only at least 13 million had gotten an updated booster, White House COVID-19 coordinator Dr. Ashish Jha estimated Tuesday.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>To pediatricians' chagrin, getting children their first vaccinations has been tougher. Less than a third of 5- to 11-year-olds have had their two primary doses and thus would qualify for the new booster.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>This age group will get kid-size doses of the new omicron-targeting booster — and they can receive it at least two months after their last dose, whether that was their primary vaccination series or an earlier booster, the FDA said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\"Vaccination remains the most effective measure to prevent the severe consequences of COVID-19,\" Dr. Peter Marks, FDA's vaccine chief, said in a statement.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>While children tend to get less seriously ill than adults, \"as the various waves of COVID-19 have occurred, more children have gotten sick with the disease and have been hospitalized,\" Marks said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>For the updated booster made by Pfizer and its partner BioNTech, 5- to 11-year-olds would get a third of the dose that anyone 12 and older already receives. Pfizer said it could ship up to 6 million kid-sized doses within a week of authorization, in addition to ongoing shipments of adult-sized doses.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Until now, Moderna's updated booster was cleared only for adults. FDA just expanded that adult bivalent dosage to 12- to 17-year-olds, and authorized half the dose for kids ages 6 to 11.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>As for even younger tots, first vaccinations didn't open for the under-5 age group until mid-June — and it will be several more months before regulators decide if they'll also need a booster using the updated recipe.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Exactly how much protection does an updated COVID-19 booster shot offer? That's hard to know. Pfizer and Moderna are starting studies in young children.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But the FDA cleared the COVID-19 booster tweaks without requiring human test results — just like it approves yearly changes to flu vaccines. That's partly because both companies already had studied experimental shots tweaked to target prior COVID-19 variants, including an earlier omicron version, and found they safely revved up virus-fighting antibodies.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\"It's clearly a better vaccine, an important upgrade from what we had before,\" Jha said earlier this week.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Jha urged adults to get their updated shot in October — like they get flu vaccinations — or at least well before holiday gatherings with high-risk family and friends. People who've recently had COVID-19 still need the booster but can wait about three months, he added.\u003c/p>\n\u003cdiv class=\"fullattribution\">Copyright 2022 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org.\u003cimg src=\"https://www.google-analytics.com/__utm.gif?utmac=UA-5828686-4&utmdt=Omicron+boosters+for+kids+5-12+are+cleared+by+the+CDC&utme=8(APIKey)9(MDAxOTAwOTE4MDEyMTkxMDAzNjczZDljZA004)\">\u003c/div>\n\n",
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"excerpt": "Tweaked boosters rolled out for Americans 12 and older last month, modified to target today's most common and contagious variant. The latest move may expand protection before an expected winter wave.",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003cp>The U.S. on Wednesday authorized updated COVID-19 boosters for children as young as 5, seeking to expand protection ahead of an expected winter wave.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11924327/where-can-i-find-a-new-omicron-covid-booster-shot-near-me\">Tweaked boosters rolled out for Americans 12 and older last month\u003c/a>, doses modified to target today's most common and contagious omicron relative. While there wasn't a big rush, federal health officials are urging that people seek the extra protection ahead of holiday gatherings.\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003c/span>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Now the Food and Drug Administration has given a green light for elementary school-age kids to get the updated booster doses, too — one made by Pfizer for 5- to 11-year-olds, and a version from rival Moderna for those as young as 6.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which recommends how vaccines are used, also signed off.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Americans may be tired of repeated calls to get boosted against COVID-19 but experts say the updated shots have an advantage: They contain half the recipe that targeted the original coronavirus strain and half protection against the dominant BA.4 and BA.5 omicron versions.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11924327/where-can-i-find-a-new-omicron-covid-booster-shot-near-me\">These combination or \"bivalent\" boosters are designed to broaden immune defenses\u003c/a> so that people are better protected against serious illness whether they encounter an omicron relative in the coming months — or a different mutant that's more like the original virus.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\"We want to have the best of both worlds,\" Pfizer's Dr. Bill Gruber, a pediatrician, told The Associated Press. He hopes the updated shots will \"re-energize interest in protecting children for the winter.\"\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The updated boosters are \"extremely important\" for keeping kids healthy and in school, said Dr. Jason Newland, a pediatric infectious disease specialist at Washington University in St. Louis.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Parents should know \"there is no concern from the safety perspective with the bivalent vaccines, whether Moderna or Pfizer,\" Newland added.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Only people who've gotten their initial vaccinations — with any of the original-formula versions — qualify for an updated booster. That means about three-fourths of Americans 12 and older are eligible. As of last weekend, only at least 13 million had gotten an updated booster, White House COVID-19 coordinator Dr. Ashish Jha estimated Tuesday.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>To pediatricians' chagrin, getting children their first vaccinations has been tougher. Less than a third of 5- to 11-year-olds have had their two primary doses and thus would qualify for the new booster.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>This age group will get kid-size doses of the new omicron-targeting booster — and they can receive it at least two months after their last dose, whether that was their primary vaccination series or an earlier booster, the FDA said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\"Vaccination remains the most effective measure to prevent the severe consequences of COVID-19,\" Dr. Peter Marks, FDA's vaccine chief, said in a statement.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>While children tend to get less seriously ill than adults, \"as the various waves of COVID-19 have occurred, more children have gotten sick with the disease and have been hospitalized,\" Marks said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>For the updated booster made by Pfizer and its partner BioNTech, 5- to 11-year-olds would get a third of the dose that anyone 12 and older already receives. Pfizer said it could ship up to 6 million kid-sized doses within a week of authorization, in addition to ongoing shipments of adult-sized doses.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Until now, Moderna's updated booster was cleared only for adults. FDA just expanded that adult bivalent dosage to 12- to 17-year-olds, and authorized half the dose for kids ages 6 to 11.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>As for even younger tots, first vaccinations didn't open for the under-5 age group until mid-June — and it will be several more months before regulators decide if they'll also need a booster using the updated recipe.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Exactly how much protection does an updated COVID-19 booster shot offer? That's hard to know. Pfizer and Moderna are starting studies in young children.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But the FDA cleared the COVID-19 booster tweaks without requiring human test results — just like it approves yearly changes to flu vaccines. That's partly because both companies already had studied experimental shots tweaked to target prior COVID-19 variants, including an earlier omicron version, and found they safely revved up virus-fighting antibodies.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\"It's clearly a better vaccine, an important upgrade from what we had before,\" Jha said earlier this week.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Jha urged adults to get their updated shot in October — like they get flu vaccinations — or at least well before holiday gatherings with high-risk family and friends. People who've recently had COVID-19 still need the booster but can wait about three months, he added.\u003c/p>\n\u003cdiv class=\"fullattribution\">Copyright 2022 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org.\u003cimg src=\"https://www.google-analytics.com/__utm.gif?utmac=UA-5828686-4&utmdt=Omicron+boosters+for+kids+5-12+are+cleared+by+the+CDC&utme=8(APIKey)9(MDAxOTAwOTE4MDEyMTkxMDAzNjczZDljZA004)\">\u003c/div>\n\n\u003c/div>\u003c/p>",
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"slug": "monkeypox-in-the-bay-area-from-symptoms-to-how-to-find-a-vaccine-heres-what-we-know",
"title": "Mpox in the San Francisco Bay Area: What We Know About Symptoms, Cases and Spread",
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"content": "\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Update, 12:20 p.m. October 20: \u003c/strong>The San Francisco Department of Public Health has announced it will end the city’s state of emergency around monkeypox (MPX) on October 31.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>SF health officials said that MPX cases “have slowed to less than one case per day,” and that more than 27,000 city residents have now received the MPX vaccine.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>San Francisco originally declared this public health emergency for MPX back in July, and was the first U.S. city to do so.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Original post:\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>A note: Several public health organizations, including the California Department of Public Health, have chosen to refer to monkeypox as “MPX” (pronounced “em-pox”) with the aim of \u003ca href=\"https://www.latimes.com/science/story/2022-08-26/many-say-the-name-is-racist-so-what-do-you-call-monkeypox\">reducing homophobic and racial stigma surrounding the virus\u003c/a>. For the rest of this story, we use “MPX” for these reasons, except in direct quotes or other cases where it would confuse readers.\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Back on August 4, \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11921618/white-house-declares-monkeypox-a-public-health-emergency\">the White House declared MPX a public health emergency\u003c/a>. At the time of this announcement, there were more than 6,616 cases reported in the U.S.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>As of Sept. 14, \u003ca href=\"https://www.cdc.gov/poxvirus/monkeypox/response/2022/us-map.html\">the CDC now reports 22,630 cases nationwide\u003c/a>. And because of limited testing, this figure most likely still represents something of an undercount.\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Looking for where to find an MPX vaccine near you? \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11920455/where-can-i-find-a-monkeypox-vaccine-near-me\">Read our full guide to the MPX vaccine in the Bay Area.\u003c/a>\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>“We are prepared to take our response to the next level in addressing this virus and we urge every American to take monkeypox seriously,” Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra said. Read more about \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11921618/white-house-declares-monkeypox-a-public-health-emergency\">what the public health emergency means.\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>On August 1, Gov. Gavin Newsom \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11921185/newsom-declares-statewide-emergency-amid-rapid-spread-of-monkeypox-virus\">declared a State of Emergency over the MPX outbreak in California\u003c/a>. A week prior, \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11920764/an-epicenter-for-the-country-san-francisco-declares-state-of-emergency-over-monkeypox-outbreak\">San Francisco had declared its own state of emergency over MPX\u003c/a>. State and local health officials have affirmed that cases are rapidly rising and have asked the federal government to make MPX vaccines more widely available.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jump to a specific answer:\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>\u003ca href=\"#monkeypoxsymptoms\">What are the symptoms of MPX?\u003c/a>\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>\u003ca href=\"#monkeypoxcases\">How many MPX cases are in the Bay Area?\u003c/a>\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>\u003ca href=\"#monkeypoxtreament\">What should I do if I think I have MPX?\u003c/a>\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>\u003ca href=\"#monkeypoxprevention\">How can I prevent being infected with MPX?\u003c/a>\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>MPX has existed for decades — the first case among humans was registered in 1970 — but we’re now seeing multiple outbreaks across the U.S. \u003ca href=\"https://www.cdc.gov/poxvirus/monkeypox/response/2022/us-map.html\">See how many cases have now been reported nationwide according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The majority of infections have been detected among gay and bisexual men, but public health experts have made it clear that MPX is an “equal opportunity disease,” meaning that anybody, regardless of sexual orientation, race, class or other demographic categories, is susceptible to infection.[aside postID=news_11920455 hero='https://ww2.kqed.org/app/uploads/sites/10/2022/07/RS57399_GettyImages-1408879341-qut-1020x765.jpg']\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>However, public health organizations that serve the LGBTQ+ community in the Bay Area are still advising residents to learn more about MPX and how it spreads, particularly in the context of large public events in San Francisco celebrated by the queer community like Pride (the weekend of June 25), Dore Alley Weekend (the weekend of July 30) and Folsom Street Fair (the weekend of September 24) that take place in the summer and fall. \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11920764/an-epicenter-for-the-country-san-francisco-declares-state-of-emergency-over-monkeypox-outbreak\">San Francisco formally declared the outbreak a public health emergency back on July 28.\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>KQED spoke to physicians, public health officials and LGBTQ+ health groups to create this guide that includes the latest information on the disease, its transmission and available treatment, and what to do if you become infected. And if you’re looking for vaccine details specifically, you can \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11920455/where-can-i-find-a-monkeypox-vaccine-near-me\">read our full guide to where to find a MPX vaccine near you.\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>What is MPX?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://sf.gov/information/monkeypox\">MPX is a disease that is caused when a person is infected with the MPX virus\u003c/a>. As the name might suggest, the virus is related to the smallpox virus but it’s generally less severe and “much less contagious” than smallpox, according to the California Department of Public Health (CDPH).\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Although you might assume MPX is also related to chickenpox, it’s not.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch3>How did MPX get its name?\u003c/h3>\n\u003cp>The disease was called “monkeypox” because \u003ca href=\"https://www.cdc.gov/poxvirus/monkeypox/about.html\">it was first found in 1958 in monkeys\u003c/a>. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention say that the first human case of MPX was recorded in 1970.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Several public health bodies, including the California Department of Public Health and the San Francisco Department of Public Health, have now chosen to refer to the virus as “MPX” to address concerns that \u003ca href=\"https://www.latimes.com/science/story/2022-08-26/many-say-the-name-is-racist-so-what-do-you-call-monkeypox\">the original name furthers both racist and homophobic stigma\u003c/a> around the disease and those who contract it.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>In speech, MPX is usually pronounced “em-pox,” or the initials “em-pee-ecks.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>You may often see “monkeypox” on first usage, and “MPX” thereafter throughout an article or a resource from a public agency. Some official resources may also use “MPOX”. Rest assured these names are referring to the same disease.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>How dangerous is MPX?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>While it’s less severe than smallpox, MPX can still be a serious disease. The good news is that according to the CDC, MPX is “rarely fatal” — and that “\u003ca href=\"https://www.cdc.gov/poxvirus/monkeypox/faq.html\">over 99% of people who get this form of the disease are likely to survive\u003c/a>.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>However, “people with weakened immune systems, children under 8 years of age, people with a history of eczema, and people who are pregnant or breastfeeding may be more likely to get seriously ill or die.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Being sick with MPX typically lasts 2-4 weeks. The symptoms of MPX are similar to smallpox symptoms, but luckily are milder.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>\u003ca id=\"monkeypoxcases\">\u003c/a>How many MPX cases are in California and the Bay Area right now?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>See \u003ca href=\"https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CID/DCDC/Pages/monkeypox.aspx\">the number of probable and confirmed MPX cases reported in California right now\u003c/a>, via the California Department of Public Health.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>See \u003ca href=\"https://sf.gov/information/monkeypox-cases\">the current number of probable and confirmed cases of MPX in San Francisco\u003c/a>, via the San Francisco Public Health Department.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>See \u003ca href=\"https://www.cdc.gov/poxvirus/monkeypox/response/2022/us-map.html\">the number of nationwide MPX cases state-by-state\u003c/a>, according to the CDC’s map.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_11919133\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\" style=\"max-width: 1920px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-11919133\" src=\"https://ww2.kqed.org/app/uploads/sites/10/2022/07/RS57172_GettyImages-1400054668-qut.jpg\" alt=\"A woman wearing a white lab coat and blue surgical gloves is photographed from behind over her left shoulder as she prepared a medical sample on a white table.\" width=\"1920\" height=\"1280\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/07/RS57172_GettyImages-1400054668-qut.jpg 1920w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/07/RS57172_GettyImages-1400054668-qut-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/07/RS57172_GettyImages-1400054668-qut-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/07/RS57172_GettyImages-1400054668-qut-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/07/RS57172_GettyImages-1400054668-qut-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">A nurse prepares a PCR test for MPX testing. \u003ccite>(Carlos Lujan/Europa Press via Getty Images)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003ch2>\u003ca id=\"monkeypoxsymptoms\">\u003c/a>What are the symptoms of MPX?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>According to the World Health Organization, \u003ca href=\"https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/monkeypox\">the incubation period of MPX\u003c/a>— that is, the amount of time between getting infected with MPX and actually developing the symptoms — is usually from six to 13 days. It can, however, range from five to 21 days.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The CDC says that \u003ca href=\"https://www.cdc.gov/poxvirus/monkeypox/clinicians/clinical-recognition.html\">you aren’t contagious during this incubation period.\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>After that initial incubation period, a person who’s infected with MPX will start to develop symptoms and become contagious to others. The CDC says that symptoms of MPX can include:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>A rash (also known as lesions) that can look like pimples or blisters that appears on the face, inside the mouth, and on other parts of the body, like the hands, feet, chest, genitals or anus. The rash goes through different stages before healing completely.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Fever\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Headache\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Muscle aches and backache\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Swollen lymph nodes\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Chills\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Exhaustion\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>Much like with COVID, symptoms can present quite differently in different people. According to the CDC, some people get a rash first, and other symptoms follow. Other folks will only experience the rash itself.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The symptoms of MPX that aren’t the rash — like chills, fatigue and headache — are similar to symptoms of COVID. This means it’s entirely possible you could initially mistake a MPX infection for a COVID infection (or you could assume it’s another illness entirely, if you then test for COVID and get a negative result). This is why watching out for a rash is really important.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The San Francisco Department of Public Health says that usually, that \u003ca href=\"https://sf.gov/information/monkeypox\">MPX rash will start in the form of red, flat spots\u003c/a>, which then become bumps. The bumps then become filled with fluid, which will then break and crust over into a scab.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>In addition to the itch they can cause, MPX lesions can be very painful, especially in genital areas or the anus. The CDC notes that people also can have permanent scarring after the rash.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/monkeypox\">The symptoms of MPX can last two to four weeks.\u003c/a> This means that, with an incubation period that could be as short as five days or as long as 21 days, a person could be dealing with an MPX infection for anywhere from under three weeks to almost two months.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Who can get MPX?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>Anyone can get MPX.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>As more details emerge of the outbreak in the U.S., it appears that \u003ca href=\"https://www.who.int/publications/m/item/monkeypox-public-health-advice-for-men-who-have-sex-with-men\">MPX infections are particularly affecting communities of gay and bisexual men\u003c/a>, and men who have sex with men.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The World Health Organization notes that \u003ca href=\"https://www.who.int/news/item/25-05-2022-monkeypox--public-health-advice-for-gay--bisexual-and-other-men-who-have-sex-with-men\">trans people and gender-diverse people “may also be more vulnerable\u003c/a> in the context of the current outbreak.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>San Francisco Health Officer Susan Philip says that LGBTQ+ folks currently being at higher risk for MPX has “nothing to do with sexual orientation or gender identity,” but is more about “being part of these networks and having close contact within those networks.” People in these networks “will likely then have expanded eligibility, expanded access to [an MPX] vaccine,” she says.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad fullwidth]\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>How does MPX spread?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>According to the CDC, the MPX virus can spread from person to person in the following ways:\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>From contact with an infected person:\u003c/strong>\u003cbr>\nThis could be direct contact with the infectious rash, scabs or body fluids, or during intimate physical contact, such as kissing, cuddling or sex. It could also spread via respiratory droplets during prolonged, face-to-face contact (even talking with someone at very close range).\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The CDC says that right now, it’s “not known” if MPX can spread through semen or vaginal fluids.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>From contact with an item that’s previously touched the rash or fluids of an infected person:\u003c/strong>\u003cbr>\nThis could include touching or sharing clothes, bedsheets or towels. SFDPH notes that according to the CDC, studies show the MPX virus can live on surfaces for as long as 15 days and still infect someone — but that you’d need to touch that surface “for a pretty long time.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>You can get MPX from an infected animal, either through a scratch or bite, or by preparing or eating meat or products from an infected animal. Pregnant people also can spread the virus to their fetus.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>How you \u003cem>cannot\u003c/em> get MPX: \u003c/strong>\u003cbr>\nFrom casual conversations, or by passing someone with MPX (say, in a store) or briefly touching surfaces like doorknobs.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_11919136\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\" style=\"max-width: 1920px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-11919136\" src=\"https://ww2.kqed.org/app/uploads/sites/10/2022/07/RS57173_A-couple-holding-hands-on-a-couch-qut-1.jpg\" alt=\"A seated couple holding hands. One person wears a dark plaid shirt, the other person wears dark blue jeans. Both of their faces are obscured.\" width=\"1920\" height=\"1282\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/07/RS57173_A-couple-holding-hands-on-a-couch-qut-1.jpg 1920w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/07/RS57173_A-couple-holding-hands-on-a-couch-qut-1-800x534.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/07/RS57173_A-couple-holding-hands-on-a-couch-qut-1-1020x681.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/07/RS57173_A-couple-holding-hands-on-a-couch-qut-1-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/07/RS57173_A-couple-holding-hands-on-a-couch-qut-1-1536x1026.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Talking about health, and especially sexual health, is paramount. \u003ccite>(Zackary Drucker/The Gender Spectrum Collection via Creative Commons)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003ch2>How contagious is MPX?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>The California Department of Public Health says that MPX is “far less contagious” than COVID.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>You can be contagious with MPX — meaning you can spread the virus to another person — from the time your symptoms start until the time any scabs have fully dropped off and the rash has fully healed (i.e., until a fresh layer of skin has formed over them). The illness typically lasts 2-4 weeks.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Can you have — and spread — MPX without having symptoms (also known as being asymptomatic)? This is an area where what we know about MPX is still evolving.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The CDC’s current guidance says that people who don’t have MPX symptoms cannot spread the virus to others. But the World Health Organization also says “the extent to which asymptomatic infection may occur is unknown.”\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Is MPX a sexually transmitted infection/disease (STI/STD)?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>MPX is not strictly an STI.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>MPX can spread through close, skin-to-skin contact and \u003ca href=\"https://www.cdc.gov/poxvirus/monkeypox/symptoms.html\">coming into contact with objects and fabrics used by somebody infected with MPX\u003c/a>. This also includes coming into contact with the rashes and sores that can develop on an infected person’s skin and even inside their mouth. The virus can also spread through respiratory droplets and saliva.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>This makes it possible for MPX to spread during sex and other intimate actions, like kissing and cuddling. But it can also spread through nonsexual behavior, like using a towel or bedsheets previously used by an infected person that have not been washed yet.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>When someone tests positive for MPX, health officials will work with them to contact their close contacts, similar to the contact tracing method used for sexually transmitted infection, says Dr. Peter Chin-Hong, an infectious disease specialist at UCSF.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“That’s the highest priority for vaccines right now,” he says, “the contacts of people who are known cases.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Chin-Hong also encourages sexual partners to talk about MPX before having sex.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“Whenever you have a new partner, you should have a very frank and open conversation that’s health-positive, and open-ended,” he explains. This can include things like possible HIV exposures and HIV test results, and asking about any potential MPX symptoms.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“‘Have you noticed any rash or anything like that recently or have you been in contact with anyone [with symptoms]?’,” he suggests as possible questions. “They are the people who are weighing the risks and benefits in different ways. So I think that … open and honest conversation is really important, not just to MPX, but just as a good practice in general.”\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>\u003ca id=\"monkeypoxtreament\">\u003c/a>What should I do if I suspect I have MPX?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>If you’re experiencing the \u003ca href=\"#monkeypoxsymptoms\">symptoms of MPX\u003c/a>, or you’ve been informed you could have been exposed to MPX, it’s important you take action as soon as possible. Here are the steps:\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Contact a health care provider right away\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you have health insurance, reach out to your regular provider ASAP, or call your provider’s medical hotline if they have one.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you don’t have health insurance, you should contact your county’s public health department to ask for their guidance:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://sf.gov/information/monkeypox\">San Francisco community clinics\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://acphd.org/clinics/\">Alameda County community clinics\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://cchealth.org/centers-clinics/\">Contra Costa County community clinics\u003c/a>, or call Contra Costa Public Health at (925) 313-6740\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://sonomacounty.ca.gov/health-and-human-services/health-services/divisions/public-health/disease-control/immunizations/community-clinics\">Sonoma County community clinics\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.smchealth.org/smmc-find-location\">San Mateo County community clinics\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.solanocounty.com/depts/ph/fhs/primary_care_clinics/default.asp\">Solano County community clinics\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.marinhhs.org/community-resource-guide/marin-community-clinics-5-locations-larkspur-novato-san-rafael\">Marin County community clinics\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://chpscc.org/member-clinics/\">Santa Clara community clinics\u003c/a>, or call the County Patient Access Department at (866) 967-4677\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.rchc.net/napa-county-health-centers/\">Napa County community clinics\u003c/a>, or call Napa County Public Health at (707) 253-4270\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>The San Francisco Department of Public Health recommends that if you live in the city and you don’t have a provider, or have difficulty scheduling an appointment, you can be seen at SF City Clinic at 7th Street (628-217-6600) or at Strut at 470 Castro Street (415-581-1600).\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Learn whether you can get tested for MPX\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The test for MPX is a swab test, in which a swab is rubbed on your skin and then sent to a specialized laboratory.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The test results will take a few days, during which period you should isolate from other people and animals, and take steps to reduce the chances of spreading the disease yourself.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But right now, you may need to meet certain criteria to get a MPX test — San Francisco, for example, says that \u003ca href=\"https://sf.gov/information/monkeypox-faq\">SF residents must have a rash or spots present to get a MPX test\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“Monkeypox is circulating here in our community,” says Tyler TerMeer, CEO of the San Francisco AIDS Foundation, but he stresses that testing isn’t available for everyone who wants it — yet. “This is different than some other viral infections,” says TerMeer. “You actually have to have an active lesion or rash that we can take a sample from in order to test to confirm whether it’s monkeypox or not.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Find out whether you can get a MPX vaccine\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>A vaccine for MPX is being offered to people who may have been exposed to the virus, which is most effective given within the first four days of infection. \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11920455/where-can-i-find-a-monkeypox-vaccine-near-me\">Read our full guide to how to find a MPX vaccine near you. \u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Contact anyone you’ve had close physical contact with\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Ask health providers about formal contact tracing, but in the meantime, reach out by calling or texting anyone you’ve been physically close to since your symptoms started.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Do what you can to manage your symptoms \u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The World Health Organization says that the symptoms of MPX, while often painful, normally get better on their own without the need for treatment — but that you should ultimately follow the advice of a health care provider. \u003ca href=\"#monkeypoxtreatment\">Jump to more information about what treatments are available for MPX.\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.who.int/news-room/questions-and-answers/item/monkeypox\">The WHO says that medication for pain (analgesics) and fever (antipyretics) can be used\u003c/a> to relieve some symptoms if needed, and that lidocaine can be applied to oral and perianal lesions to relieve pain. Talk to a health care provider about taking these kinds of medications.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The WHO also gives these tips for \u003ca href=\"https://www.who.int/news-room/questions-and-answers/item/monkeypox\">managing the symptoms of MPX at home\u003c/a>:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>Avoid scratching your skin.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Clean hands before and after touching lesions.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Keep your skin dry and uncovered.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Keep your rash clean with sterilized water or antiseptic.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>If you have lesions on your body, take a warm bath with baking soda and Epsom salts.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Use saltwater rinses for lesions in your mouth.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Stay hydrated, eat well and get enough sleep.\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Isolate yourself as much as possible\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>To avoid infecting other people, isolate yourself from others as much as possible. Avoid sharing your bedding, towels or clothing, as well as utensils and cups. Jump to \u003ca href=\"#monkeypoxprevention\">more information about reducing the spread of MPX\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you can’t avoid being in the same room as other people, the WHO advises you to keep your rash or lesions covered with clothing or a bandage. The organization also recommends \u003ca href=\"https://www.who.int/news-room/questions-and-answers/item/monkeypox\">keeping your own mental health in mind if you’re self-isolating\u003c/a>, by staying connected to others using technology, and exercising if you feel well enough.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_11919132\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1920px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-11919132\" src=\"https://ww2.kqed.org/app/uploads/sites/10/2022/07/RS57171_GettyImages-1401335558-qut.jpg\" alt=\"The right, blue-gloved hand of a medical technician holds a small vial, into which their other hand (offcamera) is dispensing liquid sample from a long white tool. The cap of the vial is bright green, and there are six vials in the background out of focus, with purple caps.\" width=\"1920\" height=\"1280\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/07/RS57171_GettyImages-1401335558-qut.jpg 1920w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/07/RS57171_GettyImages-1401335558-qut-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/07/RS57171_GettyImages-1401335558-qut-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/07/RS57171_GettyImages-1401335558-qut-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/07/RS57171_GettyImages-1401335558-qut-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">A medical laboratory technician inactivates suspected MPX samples to be PCR-tested in a microbiology laboratory. \u003ccite>(Pablo Blazquez Dominguez/Getty Images)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003ch2>\u003ca id=\"monkeypoxvaccine\">\u003c/a>What is the MPX vaccine, and how can I get it?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>The MPX vaccine being offered in the United States right now is called Jynneos. This vaccine is also used to prevent smallpox.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The CDC recommends that the MPX vaccine be given to a person within four days of the date they were exposed to MPX, for the best chance of preventing onset of the disease.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If a person gets the vaccine between four and 14 days of being exposed, the vaccine may reduce the symptoms of MPX, but may not prevent the disease altogether. This timeliness is another reason it’s important to stay vigilant for possible exposure to MPX and watch for symptoms — and to act quickly.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>\u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11920455/where-can-i-find-a-monkeypox-vaccine-near-me\">Read our full guide to the MPX vaccine in the Bay Area.\u003c/a>\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>\u003ca id=\"monkeypoxtreatment\">\u003c/a>What MPX treatments are available?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>Currently, the drug Tecovirimat (also known as TPOXX or ST-246) is being used to treat those experiencing severe MPX. The Food and Drug Administration already has approved Tecovirimat to treat smallpox, and has recently expanded its use for MPX among adults and children.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Tecovirimat is usually a two-week treatment and can be administered either through a capsule or an intravenous (IV) injection. The drug works by making it harder for the virus to infect new cells, therefore limiting the infection growth.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“Most people will get better on their own but some people will require treatment,” says Chin-Hong of UCSF. Those considered for treatment include immunocompromised people, pregnant people and children under 8.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>People who don’t have those particular risk factors but still develop severe MPX also can receive treatment, Chin-Hong says. This includes those who develop extensive oral disease, as that makes it very difficult to eat and drink. “It’s like having a bunch of ulcers in your mouth,” he says. Those who develop the disease extensively in the rectal area or near the eyes also can receive treatment.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The blisters and sores that develop can be quite painful, he adds: “Treatment is not only about vaccines and drug treatments but also about what specific symptoms the patient’s having.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>He recommends talking to your physician about what pain you’re feeling and where. If the disease is in the rectal area, it can be painful to defecate. But there are many options available that can alleviate, or at least reduce, the pain you may be feeling.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The MPX vaccine also can act as a sort of treatment, he says, but only when someone receives it shortly after being exposed. “In MPX, the incubation period is longer,” he explains. “So that means if you got a vaccine shortly after exposure — some people think within four days — it can impact and stop you from getting disease, even though you might have been exposed to an infection.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“If you get the vaccine within 14 days of exposure, even though you might get the rash or disease, it will reduce your symptoms.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_11919138\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\" style=\"max-width: 1920px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-11919138\" src=\"https://ww2.kqed.org/app/uploads/sites/10/2022/07/RS57175_GettyImages-1241638108-qut.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1920\" height=\"1378\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/07/RS57175_GettyImages-1241638108-qut.jpg 1920w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/07/RS57175_GettyImages-1241638108-qut-800x574.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/07/RS57175_GettyImages-1241638108-qut-1020x732.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/07/RS57175_GettyImages-1241638108-qut-160x115.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/07/RS57175_GettyImages-1241638108-qut-1536x1102.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">A vial of the Jynneos MPX vaccine. \u003ccite>(Bill O'Leary/The Washington Post via Getty Images)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003ch2>Do we know how MPX interacts with COVID?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>The California Department of Public Health stresses that MPX is “a completely different disease” from COVID, and that this outbreak is unrelated to COVID.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>MPX is much less contagious than COVID and the way it spreads also is very different. SFDPH says this is “partly because people with MPX are generally thought to be contagious to people with whom they’ve had very close contact over a long period of time, and when they have symptoms like a rash.” COVID, on the other hand, spreads through the air and can be spread even when people do not have COVID symptoms.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>However, UCSF’s Chin-Hong affirms that it’s completely possible to contract COVID-19 and MPX at the same time and adds that the impact that a double infection has on the body is still being studied.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>\u003ca id=\"monkeypoxprevention\">\u003c/a>How can folks protect themselves against contracting MPX?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>The CDC says the following activities will increase your risk for being infected with MPX, and should be avoided to reduce the risk of infection:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>Close, skin-to-skin contact with someone’s MPX rash\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Touching the rash or scabs of someone with MPX\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Kissing, hugging, cuddling or having sex with someone who has MPX\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Sharing eating utensils or cups\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Handling or touch the bedding, towels or clothing of someone with MPX\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>Wash your hands often with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, especially after contact with people who’ve been infected with MPX. \u003ca href=\"https://www.cdc.gov/poxvirus/monkeypox/pdf/Monkeypox-Interim-Guidance-for-Household-Disinfection-508.pdf\">Read the CDC’s guide to disinfecting spaces to prevent the spread of MPX.\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Additionally, the San Francisco Department of Public Health advises you cover exposed skin in crowded settings (whether that’s indoors, like in a bar, or outdoors at a festival or a parade).\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>They also recommend you don’t share bedding or clothing with others generally, even if you aren’t sure if they have MPX, and talk to your close physical and sexual contacts about their health generally, including whether they’re seeing recent rashes or sores on their body.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>What are health officials doing to prevent and combat stigma about MPX?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>San Francisco AIDS Foundation CEO TerMeer says that vaccine equity is also very much on the minds of advocates right now, “ensuring that we don’t repeat any mistakes of the past so that communities of color or other communities that have traditionally been furthest from access and opportunity in the health care space don’t get left out of the conversation.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“Our predominant advocacy at the moment is just ‘we need vaccines and we need them now,’” says TerMeer. “We are really pushing to try and get at least 1,000 doses of vaccine in the next 30 days so that we can get ahead of the issue and are really hoping to be able to respond effectively, before it grows into a larger issue.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you are looking for additional health advice on MPX, you also can access:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>\u003ca href=\"https://www.sfaf.org/monkeypox/\">Magnet Sexual Health Clinic at Strut\u003c/a> (San Francisco AIDS Foundation): (415) 581-1600\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>San Francisco Department of Public Health \u003ca href=\"https://sf.gov/information/monkeypox\">info page about MPX\u003c/a>\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>\u003ca href=\"https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CID/DCDC/Pages/Monkeypox-Questions-and-Answers.aspx\">California Department of Public Health MPX FAQ\u003c/a>\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>This post includes reporting by KQED’s Vanessa Rancaño, Juan Carlos Lara and Matthew Green. A version of this story was published on July 8.\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad floatright]\u003c/p>\n",
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"excerpt": "What is monkeypox? What are the symptoms, how does it spread and how many cases do we know of in the Bay Area? Our guide has answers.",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Update, 12:20 p.m. October 20: \u003c/strong>The San Francisco Department of Public Health has announced it will end the city’s state of emergency around monkeypox (MPX) on October 31.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>SF health officials said that MPX cases “have slowed to less than one case per day,” and that more than 27,000 city residents have now received the MPX vaccine.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>San Francisco originally declared this public health emergency for MPX back in July, and was the first U.S. city to do so.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Original post:\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>A note: Several public health organizations, including the California Department of Public Health, have chosen to refer to monkeypox as “MPX” (pronounced “em-pox”) with the aim of \u003ca href=\"https://www.latimes.com/science/story/2022-08-26/many-say-the-name-is-racist-so-what-do-you-call-monkeypox\">reducing homophobic and racial stigma surrounding the virus\u003c/a>. For the rest of this story, we use “MPX” for these reasons, except in direct quotes or other cases where it would confuse readers.\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Back on August 4, \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11921618/white-house-declares-monkeypox-a-public-health-emergency\">the White House declared MPX a public health emergency\u003c/a>. At the time of this announcement, there were more than 6,616 cases reported in the U.S.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>As of Sept. 14, \u003ca href=\"https://www.cdc.gov/poxvirus/monkeypox/response/2022/us-map.html\">the CDC now reports 22,630 cases nationwide\u003c/a>. And because of limited testing, this figure most likely still represents something of an undercount.\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Looking for where to find an MPX vaccine near you? \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11920455/where-can-i-find-a-monkeypox-vaccine-near-me\">Read our full guide to the MPX vaccine in the Bay Area.\u003c/a>\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>“We are prepared to take our response to the next level in addressing this virus and we urge every American to take monkeypox seriously,” Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra said. Read more about \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11921618/white-house-declares-monkeypox-a-public-health-emergency\">what the public health emergency means.\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>On August 1, Gov. Gavin Newsom \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11921185/newsom-declares-statewide-emergency-amid-rapid-spread-of-monkeypox-virus\">declared a State of Emergency over the MPX outbreak in California\u003c/a>. A week prior, \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11920764/an-epicenter-for-the-country-san-francisco-declares-state-of-emergency-over-monkeypox-outbreak\">San Francisco had declared its own state of emergency over MPX\u003c/a>. State and local health officials have affirmed that cases are rapidly rising and have asked the federal government to make MPX vaccines more widely available.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jump to a specific answer:\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>\u003ca href=\"#monkeypoxsymptoms\">What are the symptoms of MPX?\u003c/a>\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>\u003ca href=\"#monkeypoxcases\">How many MPX cases are in the Bay Area?\u003c/a>\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>\u003ca href=\"#monkeypoxtreament\">What should I do if I think I have MPX?\u003c/a>\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>\u003ca href=\"#monkeypoxprevention\">How can I prevent being infected with MPX?\u003c/a>\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>MPX has existed for decades — the first case among humans was registered in 1970 — but we’re now seeing multiple outbreaks across the U.S. \u003ca href=\"https://www.cdc.gov/poxvirus/monkeypox/response/2022/us-map.html\">See how many cases have now been reported nationwide according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The majority of infections have been detected among gay and bisexual men, but public health experts have made it clear that MPX is an “equal opportunity disease,” meaning that anybody, regardless of sexual orientation, race, class or other demographic categories, is susceptible to infection.\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>However, public health organizations that serve the LGBTQ+ community in the Bay Area are still advising residents to learn more about MPX and how it spreads, particularly in the context of large public events in San Francisco celebrated by the queer community like Pride (the weekend of June 25), Dore Alley Weekend (the weekend of July 30) and Folsom Street Fair (the weekend of September 24) that take place in the summer and fall. \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11920764/an-epicenter-for-the-country-san-francisco-declares-state-of-emergency-over-monkeypox-outbreak\">San Francisco formally declared the outbreak a public health emergency back on July 28.\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>KQED spoke to physicians, public health officials and LGBTQ+ health groups to create this guide that includes the latest information on the disease, its transmission and available treatment, and what to do if you become infected. And if you’re looking for vaccine details specifically, you can \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11920455/where-can-i-find-a-monkeypox-vaccine-near-me\">read our full guide to where to find a MPX vaccine near you.\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>What is MPX?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://sf.gov/information/monkeypox\">MPX is a disease that is caused when a person is infected with the MPX virus\u003c/a>. As the name might suggest, the virus is related to the smallpox virus but it’s generally less severe and “much less contagious” than smallpox, according to the California Department of Public Health (CDPH).\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Although you might assume MPX is also related to chickenpox, it’s not.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch3>How did MPX get its name?\u003c/h3>\n\u003cp>The disease was called “monkeypox” because \u003ca href=\"https://www.cdc.gov/poxvirus/monkeypox/about.html\">it was first found in 1958 in monkeys\u003c/a>. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention say that the first human case of MPX was recorded in 1970.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Several public health bodies, including the California Department of Public Health and the San Francisco Department of Public Health, have now chosen to refer to the virus as “MPX” to address concerns that \u003ca href=\"https://www.latimes.com/science/story/2022-08-26/many-say-the-name-is-racist-so-what-do-you-call-monkeypox\">the original name furthers both racist and homophobic stigma\u003c/a> around the disease and those who contract it.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>In speech, MPX is usually pronounced “em-pox,” or the initials “em-pee-ecks.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>You may often see “monkeypox” on first usage, and “MPX” thereafter throughout an article or a resource from a public agency. Some official resources may also use “MPOX”. Rest assured these names are referring to the same disease.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>How dangerous is MPX?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>While it’s less severe than smallpox, MPX can still be a serious disease. The good news is that according to the CDC, MPX is “rarely fatal” — and that “\u003ca href=\"https://www.cdc.gov/poxvirus/monkeypox/faq.html\">over 99% of people who get this form of the disease are likely to survive\u003c/a>.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>However, “people with weakened immune systems, children under 8 years of age, people with a history of eczema, and people who are pregnant or breastfeeding may be more likely to get seriously ill or die.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Being sick with MPX typically lasts 2-4 weeks. The symptoms of MPX are similar to smallpox symptoms, but luckily are milder.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>\u003ca id=\"monkeypoxcases\">\u003c/a>How many MPX cases are in California and the Bay Area right now?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>See \u003ca href=\"https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CID/DCDC/Pages/monkeypox.aspx\">the number of probable and confirmed MPX cases reported in California right now\u003c/a>, via the California Department of Public Health.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>See \u003ca href=\"https://sf.gov/information/monkeypox-cases\">the current number of probable and confirmed cases of MPX in San Francisco\u003c/a>, via the San Francisco Public Health Department.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>See \u003ca href=\"https://www.cdc.gov/poxvirus/monkeypox/response/2022/us-map.html\">the number of nationwide MPX cases state-by-state\u003c/a>, according to the CDC’s map.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_11919133\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\" style=\"max-width: 1920px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-11919133\" src=\"https://ww2.kqed.org/app/uploads/sites/10/2022/07/RS57172_GettyImages-1400054668-qut.jpg\" alt=\"A woman wearing a white lab coat and blue surgical gloves is photographed from behind over her left shoulder as she prepared a medical sample on a white table.\" width=\"1920\" height=\"1280\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/07/RS57172_GettyImages-1400054668-qut.jpg 1920w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/07/RS57172_GettyImages-1400054668-qut-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/07/RS57172_GettyImages-1400054668-qut-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/07/RS57172_GettyImages-1400054668-qut-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/07/RS57172_GettyImages-1400054668-qut-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">A nurse prepares a PCR test for MPX testing. \u003ccite>(Carlos Lujan/Europa Press via Getty Images)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003ch2>\u003ca id=\"monkeypoxsymptoms\">\u003c/a>What are the symptoms of MPX?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>According to the World Health Organization, \u003ca href=\"https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/monkeypox\">the incubation period of MPX\u003c/a>— that is, the amount of time between getting infected with MPX and actually developing the symptoms — is usually from six to 13 days. It can, however, range from five to 21 days.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The CDC says that \u003ca href=\"https://www.cdc.gov/poxvirus/monkeypox/clinicians/clinical-recognition.html\">you aren’t contagious during this incubation period.\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>After that initial incubation period, a person who’s infected with MPX will start to develop symptoms and become contagious to others. The CDC says that symptoms of MPX can include:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>A rash (also known as lesions) that can look like pimples or blisters that appears on the face, inside the mouth, and on other parts of the body, like the hands, feet, chest, genitals or anus. The rash goes through different stages before healing completely.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Fever\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Headache\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Muscle aches and backache\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Swollen lymph nodes\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Chills\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Exhaustion\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>Much like with COVID, symptoms can present quite differently in different people. According to the CDC, some people get a rash first, and other symptoms follow. Other folks will only experience the rash itself.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The symptoms of MPX that aren’t the rash — like chills, fatigue and headache — are similar to symptoms of COVID. This means it’s entirely possible you could initially mistake a MPX infection for a COVID infection (or you could assume it’s another illness entirely, if you then test for COVID and get a negative result). This is why watching out for a rash is really important.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The San Francisco Department of Public Health says that usually, that \u003ca href=\"https://sf.gov/information/monkeypox\">MPX rash will start in the form of red, flat spots\u003c/a>, which then become bumps. The bumps then become filled with fluid, which will then break and crust over into a scab.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>In addition to the itch they can cause, MPX lesions can be very painful, especially in genital areas or the anus. The CDC notes that people also can have permanent scarring after the rash.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/monkeypox\">The symptoms of MPX can last two to four weeks.\u003c/a> This means that, with an incubation period that could be as short as five days or as long as 21 days, a person could be dealing with an MPX infection for anywhere from under three weeks to almost two months.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Who can get MPX?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>Anyone can get MPX.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>As more details emerge of the outbreak in the U.S., it appears that \u003ca href=\"https://www.who.int/publications/m/item/monkeypox-public-health-advice-for-men-who-have-sex-with-men\">MPX infections are particularly affecting communities of gay and bisexual men\u003c/a>, and men who have sex with men.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The World Health Organization notes that \u003ca href=\"https://www.who.int/news/item/25-05-2022-monkeypox--public-health-advice-for-gay--bisexual-and-other-men-who-have-sex-with-men\">trans people and gender-diverse people “may also be more vulnerable\u003c/a> in the context of the current outbreak.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>San Francisco Health Officer Susan Philip says that LGBTQ+ folks currently being at higher risk for MPX has “nothing to do with sexual orientation or gender identity,” but is more about “being part of these networks and having close contact within those networks.” People in these networks “will likely then have expanded eligibility, expanded access to [an MPX] vaccine,” she says.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>How does MPX spread?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>According to the CDC, the MPX virus can spread from person to person in the following ways:\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>From contact with an infected person:\u003c/strong>\u003cbr>\nThis could be direct contact with the infectious rash, scabs or body fluids, or during intimate physical contact, such as kissing, cuddling or sex. It could also spread via respiratory droplets during prolonged, face-to-face contact (even talking with someone at very close range).\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The CDC says that right now, it’s “not known” if MPX can spread through semen or vaginal fluids.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>From contact with an item that’s previously touched the rash or fluids of an infected person:\u003c/strong>\u003cbr>\nThis could include touching or sharing clothes, bedsheets or towels. SFDPH notes that according to the CDC, studies show the MPX virus can live on surfaces for as long as 15 days and still infect someone — but that you’d need to touch that surface “for a pretty long time.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>You can get MPX from an infected animal, either through a scratch or bite, or by preparing or eating meat or products from an infected animal. Pregnant people also can spread the virus to their fetus.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>How you \u003cem>cannot\u003c/em> get MPX: \u003c/strong>\u003cbr>\nFrom casual conversations, or by passing someone with MPX (say, in a store) or briefly touching surfaces like doorknobs.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_11919136\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\" style=\"max-width: 1920px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-11919136\" src=\"https://ww2.kqed.org/app/uploads/sites/10/2022/07/RS57173_A-couple-holding-hands-on-a-couch-qut-1.jpg\" alt=\"A seated couple holding hands. One person wears a dark plaid shirt, the other person wears dark blue jeans. Both of their faces are obscured.\" width=\"1920\" height=\"1282\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/07/RS57173_A-couple-holding-hands-on-a-couch-qut-1.jpg 1920w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/07/RS57173_A-couple-holding-hands-on-a-couch-qut-1-800x534.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/07/RS57173_A-couple-holding-hands-on-a-couch-qut-1-1020x681.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/07/RS57173_A-couple-holding-hands-on-a-couch-qut-1-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/07/RS57173_A-couple-holding-hands-on-a-couch-qut-1-1536x1026.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Talking about health, and especially sexual health, is paramount. \u003ccite>(Zackary Drucker/The Gender Spectrum Collection via Creative Commons)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003ch2>How contagious is MPX?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>The California Department of Public Health says that MPX is “far less contagious” than COVID.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>You can be contagious with MPX — meaning you can spread the virus to another person — from the time your symptoms start until the time any scabs have fully dropped off and the rash has fully healed (i.e., until a fresh layer of skin has formed over them). The illness typically lasts 2-4 weeks.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Can you have — and spread — MPX without having symptoms (also known as being asymptomatic)? This is an area where what we know about MPX is still evolving.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The CDC’s current guidance says that people who don’t have MPX symptoms cannot spread the virus to others. But the World Health Organization also says “the extent to which asymptomatic infection may occur is unknown.”\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Is MPX a sexually transmitted infection/disease (STI/STD)?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>MPX is not strictly an STI.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>MPX can spread through close, skin-to-skin contact and \u003ca href=\"https://www.cdc.gov/poxvirus/monkeypox/symptoms.html\">coming into contact with objects and fabrics used by somebody infected with MPX\u003c/a>. This also includes coming into contact with the rashes and sores that can develop on an infected person’s skin and even inside their mouth. The virus can also spread through respiratory droplets and saliva.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>This makes it possible for MPX to spread during sex and other intimate actions, like kissing and cuddling. But it can also spread through nonsexual behavior, like using a towel or bedsheets previously used by an infected person that have not been washed yet.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>When someone tests positive for MPX, health officials will work with them to contact their close contacts, similar to the contact tracing method used for sexually transmitted infection, says Dr. Peter Chin-Hong, an infectious disease specialist at UCSF.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“That’s the highest priority for vaccines right now,” he says, “the contacts of people who are known cases.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Chin-Hong also encourages sexual partners to talk about MPX before having sex.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“Whenever you have a new partner, you should have a very frank and open conversation that’s health-positive, and open-ended,” he explains. This can include things like possible HIV exposures and HIV test results, and asking about any potential MPX symptoms.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“‘Have you noticed any rash or anything like that recently or have you been in contact with anyone [with symptoms]?’,” he suggests as possible questions. “They are the people who are weighing the risks and benefits in different ways. So I think that … open and honest conversation is really important, not just to MPX, but just as a good practice in general.”\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>\u003ca id=\"monkeypoxtreament\">\u003c/a>What should I do if I suspect I have MPX?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>If you’re experiencing the \u003ca href=\"#monkeypoxsymptoms\">symptoms of MPX\u003c/a>, or you’ve been informed you could have been exposed to MPX, it’s important you take action as soon as possible. Here are the steps:\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Contact a health care provider right away\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you have health insurance, reach out to your regular provider ASAP, or call your provider’s medical hotline if they have one.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you don’t have health insurance, you should contact your county’s public health department to ask for their guidance:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://sf.gov/information/monkeypox\">San Francisco community clinics\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://acphd.org/clinics/\">Alameda County community clinics\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://cchealth.org/centers-clinics/\">Contra Costa County community clinics\u003c/a>, or call Contra Costa Public Health at (925) 313-6740\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://sonomacounty.ca.gov/health-and-human-services/health-services/divisions/public-health/disease-control/immunizations/community-clinics\">Sonoma County community clinics\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.smchealth.org/smmc-find-location\">San Mateo County community clinics\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.solanocounty.com/depts/ph/fhs/primary_care_clinics/default.asp\">Solano County community clinics\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.marinhhs.org/community-resource-guide/marin-community-clinics-5-locations-larkspur-novato-san-rafael\">Marin County community clinics\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://chpscc.org/member-clinics/\">Santa Clara community clinics\u003c/a>, or call the County Patient Access Department at (866) 967-4677\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.rchc.net/napa-county-health-centers/\">Napa County community clinics\u003c/a>, or call Napa County Public Health at (707) 253-4270\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>The San Francisco Department of Public Health recommends that if you live in the city and you don’t have a provider, or have difficulty scheduling an appointment, you can be seen at SF City Clinic at 7th Street (628-217-6600) or at Strut at 470 Castro Street (415-581-1600).\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Learn whether you can get tested for MPX\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The test for MPX is a swab test, in which a swab is rubbed on your skin and then sent to a specialized laboratory.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The test results will take a few days, during which period you should isolate from other people and animals, and take steps to reduce the chances of spreading the disease yourself.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But right now, you may need to meet certain criteria to get a MPX test — San Francisco, for example, says that \u003ca href=\"https://sf.gov/information/monkeypox-faq\">SF residents must have a rash or spots present to get a MPX test\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“Monkeypox is circulating here in our community,” says Tyler TerMeer, CEO of the San Francisco AIDS Foundation, but he stresses that testing isn’t available for everyone who wants it — yet. “This is different than some other viral infections,” says TerMeer. “You actually have to have an active lesion or rash that we can take a sample from in order to test to confirm whether it’s monkeypox or not.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Find out whether you can get a MPX vaccine\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>A vaccine for MPX is being offered to people who may have been exposed to the virus, which is most effective given within the first four days of infection. \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11920455/where-can-i-find-a-monkeypox-vaccine-near-me\">Read our full guide to how to find a MPX vaccine near you. \u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Contact anyone you’ve had close physical contact with\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Ask health providers about formal contact tracing, but in the meantime, reach out by calling or texting anyone you’ve been physically close to since your symptoms started.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Do what you can to manage your symptoms \u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The World Health Organization says that the symptoms of MPX, while often painful, normally get better on their own without the need for treatment — but that you should ultimately follow the advice of a health care provider. \u003ca href=\"#monkeypoxtreatment\">Jump to more information about what treatments are available for MPX.\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.who.int/news-room/questions-and-answers/item/monkeypox\">The WHO says that medication for pain (analgesics) and fever (antipyretics) can be used\u003c/a> to relieve some symptoms if needed, and that lidocaine can be applied to oral and perianal lesions to relieve pain. Talk to a health care provider about taking these kinds of medications.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The WHO also gives these tips for \u003ca href=\"https://www.who.int/news-room/questions-and-answers/item/monkeypox\">managing the symptoms of MPX at home\u003c/a>:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>Avoid scratching your skin.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Clean hands before and after touching lesions.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Keep your skin dry and uncovered.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Keep your rash clean with sterilized water or antiseptic.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>If you have lesions on your body, take a warm bath with baking soda and Epsom salts.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Use saltwater rinses for lesions in your mouth.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Stay hydrated, eat well and get enough sleep.\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Isolate yourself as much as possible\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>To avoid infecting other people, isolate yourself from others as much as possible. Avoid sharing your bedding, towels or clothing, as well as utensils and cups. Jump to \u003ca href=\"#monkeypoxprevention\">more information about reducing the spread of MPX\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you can’t avoid being in the same room as other people, the WHO advises you to keep your rash or lesions covered with clothing or a bandage. The organization also recommends \u003ca href=\"https://www.who.int/news-room/questions-and-answers/item/monkeypox\">keeping your own mental health in mind if you’re self-isolating\u003c/a>, by staying connected to others using technology, and exercising if you feel well enough.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_11919132\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1920px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-11919132\" src=\"https://ww2.kqed.org/app/uploads/sites/10/2022/07/RS57171_GettyImages-1401335558-qut.jpg\" alt=\"The right, blue-gloved hand of a medical technician holds a small vial, into which their other hand (offcamera) is dispensing liquid sample from a long white tool. The cap of the vial is bright green, and there are six vials in the background out of focus, with purple caps.\" width=\"1920\" height=\"1280\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/07/RS57171_GettyImages-1401335558-qut.jpg 1920w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/07/RS57171_GettyImages-1401335558-qut-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/07/RS57171_GettyImages-1401335558-qut-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/07/RS57171_GettyImages-1401335558-qut-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/07/RS57171_GettyImages-1401335558-qut-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">A medical laboratory technician inactivates suspected MPX samples to be PCR-tested in a microbiology laboratory. \u003ccite>(Pablo Blazquez Dominguez/Getty Images)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003ch2>\u003ca id=\"monkeypoxvaccine\">\u003c/a>What is the MPX vaccine, and how can I get it?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>The MPX vaccine being offered in the United States right now is called Jynneos. This vaccine is also used to prevent smallpox.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The CDC recommends that the MPX vaccine be given to a person within four days of the date they were exposed to MPX, for the best chance of preventing onset of the disease.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If a person gets the vaccine between four and 14 days of being exposed, the vaccine may reduce the symptoms of MPX, but may not prevent the disease altogether. This timeliness is another reason it’s important to stay vigilant for possible exposure to MPX and watch for symptoms — and to act quickly.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>\u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11920455/where-can-i-find-a-monkeypox-vaccine-near-me\">Read our full guide to the MPX vaccine in the Bay Area.\u003c/a>\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>\u003ca id=\"monkeypoxtreatment\">\u003c/a>What MPX treatments are available?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>Currently, the drug Tecovirimat (also known as TPOXX or ST-246) is being used to treat those experiencing severe MPX. The Food and Drug Administration already has approved Tecovirimat to treat smallpox, and has recently expanded its use for MPX among adults and children.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Tecovirimat is usually a two-week treatment and can be administered either through a capsule or an intravenous (IV) injection. The drug works by making it harder for the virus to infect new cells, therefore limiting the infection growth.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“Most people will get better on their own but some people will require treatment,” says Chin-Hong of UCSF. Those considered for treatment include immunocompromised people, pregnant people and children under 8.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>People who don’t have those particular risk factors but still develop severe MPX also can receive treatment, Chin-Hong says. This includes those who develop extensive oral disease, as that makes it very difficult to eat and drink. “It’s like having a bunch of ulcers in your mouth,” he says. Those who develop the disease extensively in the rectal area or near the eyes also can receive treatment.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The blisters and sores that develop can be quite painful, he adds: “Treatment is not only about vaccines and drug treatments but also about what specific symptoms the patient’s having.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>He recommends talking to your physician about what pain you’re feeling and where. If the disease is in the rectal area, it can be painful to defecate. But there are many options available that can alleviate, or at least reduce, the pain you may be feeling.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The MPX vaccine also can act as a sort of treatment, he says, but only when someone receives it shortly after being exposed. “In MPX, the incubation period is longer,” he explains. “So that means if you got a vaccine shortly after exposure — some people think within four days — it can impact and stop you from getting disease, even though you might have been exposed to an infection.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“If you get the vaccine within 14 days of exposure, even though you might get the rash or disease, it will reduce your symptoms.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_11919138\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\" style=\"max-width: 1920px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-11919138\" src=\"https://ww2.kqed.org/app/uploads/sites/10/2022/07/RS57175_GettyImages-1241638108-qut.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1920\" height=\"1378\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/07/RS57175_GettyImages-1241638108-qut.jpg 1920w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/07/RS57175_GettyImages-1241638108-qut-800x574.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/07/RS57175_GettyImages-1241638108-qut-1020x732.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/07/RS57175_GettyImages-1241638108-qut-160x115.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/07/RS57175_GettyImages-1241638108-qut-1536x1102.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">A vial of the Jynneos MPX vaccine. \u003ccite>(Bill O'Leary/The Washington Post via Getty Images)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003ch2>Do we know how MPX interacts with COVID?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>The California Department of Public Health stresses that MPX is “a completely different disease” from COVID, and that this outbreak is unrelated to COVID.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>MPX is much less contagious than COVID and the way it spreads also is very different. SFDPH says this is “partly because people with MPX are generally thought to be contagious to people with whom they’ve had very close contact over a long period of time, and when they have symptoms like a rash.” COVID, on the other hand, spreads through the air and can be spread even when people do not have COVID symptoms.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>However, UCSF’s Chin-Hong affirms that it’s completely possible to contract COVID-19 and MPX at the same time and adds that the impact that a double infection has on the body is still being studied.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>\u003ca id=\"monkeypoxprevention\">\u003c/a>How can folks protect themselves against contracting MPX?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>The CDC says the following activities will increase your risk for being infected with MPX, and should be avoided to reduce the risk of infection:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>Close, skin-to-skin contact with someone’s MPX rash\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Touching the rash or scabs of someone with MPX\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Kissing, hugging, cuddling or having sex with someone who has MPX\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Sharing eating utensils or cups\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Handling or touch the bedding, towels or clothing of someone with MPX\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>Wash your hands often with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, especially after contact with people who’ve been infected with MPX. \u003ca href=\"https://www.cdc.gov/poxvirus/monkeypox/pdf/Monkeypox-Interim-Guidance-for-Household-Disinfection-508.pdf\">Read the CDC’s guide to disinfecting spaces to prevent the spread of MPX.\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Additionally, the San Francisco Department of Public Health advises you cover exposed skin in crowded settings (whether that’s indoors, like in a bar, or outdoors at a festival or a parade).\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>They also recommend you don’t share bedding or clothing with others generally, even if you aren’t sure if they have MPX, and talk to your close physical and sexual contacts about their health generally, including whether they’re seeing recent rashes or sores on their body.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>What are health officials doing to prevent and combat stigma about MPX?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>San Francisco AIDS Foundation CEO TerMeer says that vaccine equity is also very much on the minds of advocates right now, “ensuring that we don’t repeat any mistakes of the past so that communities of color or other communities that have traditionally been furthest from access and opportunity in the health care space don’t get left out of the conversation.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“Our predominant advocacy at the moment is just ‘we need vaccines and we need them now,’” says TerMeer. “We are really pushing to try and get at least 1,000 doses of vaccine in the next 30 days so that we can get ahead of the issue and are really hoping to be able to respond effectively, before it grows into a larger issue.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you are looking for additional health advice on MPX, you also can access:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>\u003ca href=\"https://www.sfaf.org/monkeypox/\">Magnet Sexual Health Clinic at Strut\u003c/a> (San Francisco AIDS Foundation): (415) 581-1600\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>San Francisco Department of Public Health \u003ca href=\"https://sf.gov/information/monkeypox\">info page about MPX\u003c/a>\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>\u003ca href=\"https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CID/DCDC/Pages/Monkeypox-Questions-and-Answers.aspx\">California Department of Public Health MPX FAQ\u003c/a>\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>This post includes reporting by KQED’s Vanessa Rancaño, Juan Carlos Lara and Matthew Green. A version of this story was published on July 8.\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"slug": "starting-friday-thousands-of-california-tenants-still-waiting-on-rent-relief-can-be-evicted",
"title": "Thousands of California Tenants Still Waiting on Rent Relief Can Be Evicted",
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"headTitle": "Thousands of California Tenants Still Waiting on Rent Relief Can Be Evicted | KQED",
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"content": "\u003cp>Tenants who have applied to \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11908640/covid-rent-relief-taking-a-long-time-to-process-what-you-can-do-if-youre-waiting\">California’s emergency COVID rent relief program\u003c/a> and are still awaiting a response now can be evicted from their homes, as the last of the state’s pandemic-era eviction protections expired on June 30.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Sulima Navarrete, of Richmond, applied for rent relief in October after her husband lost his job during the pandemic doing construction work.\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Jump to: \u003ca href=\"#rentreliefwaiting\">What to do if you’re now under threat of eviction\u003c/a>\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>He also contracted COVID and is still experiencing fatigue and other symptoms, making it hard for him to find new work, she said. The couple has three children, ranging in age from 6 to 20.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“It’s frustrating because it’s not something we asked for,” Navarrete said in Spanish. “It’s something the pandemic brought.”\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Exposed to eviction\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>Navarrete is one of 34,510 applicants for the state’s rental aid program, called \u003ca href=\"https://housing.ca.gov/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Housing Is Key\u003c/a>, whose applications were still under review as of June 29.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“It’s highly unlikely that [the state is] going to get through all these applications by June 30th when the eviction protections expire,” said Sarah Treuhaft, a researcher at PolicyLink.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“So, that means that people will still be waiting in line, and they will be exposed to eviction. They’re likely to be evicted or have eviction proceedings against them,” said Treuhaft.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_11918384\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1920px\">\u003ca href=\"https://ww2.kqed.org/app/uploads/sites/10/2022/06/RS56999_003_KQED_HousingSulimaNavarrete_06292022-qut.jpg\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-11918384\" src=\"https://ww2.kqed.org/app/uploads/sites/10/2022/06/RS56999_003_KQED_HousingSulimaNavarrete_06292022-qut.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1920\" height=\"1280\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/06/RS56999_003_KQED_HousingSulimaNavarrete_06292022-qut.jpg 1920w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/06/RS56999_003_KQED_HousingSulimaNavarrete_06292022-qut-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/06/RS56999_003_KQED_HousingSulimaNavarrete_06292022-qut-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/06/RS56999_003_KQED_HousingSulimaNavarrete_06292022-qut-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/06/RS56999_003_KQED_HousingSulimaNavarrete_06292022-qut-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px\">\u003c/a>\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Sulima Navarrete organizes food in her kitchen at the apartment she has rented with her family, on June 26, 2022. She applied for rent relief in October but is still awaiting a response from the state on whether her application will be approved. \u003ccite>(Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>This includes Navarrete, who has already received an eviction notice from her landlord.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“They don’t understand,” Navarrete said of state officials. “The help is coming too late.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>California’s statewide moratorium on evictions expired last fall, on Sept. 30, 2021. The state’s rent relief program has afforded its own kind of eviction protections since then, since \u003ca href=\"https://housing.ca.gov/tenant/protection_guidelines.html\">any landlord wanting to evict a tenant for failing to pay rent as a result of COVID hardship needed to first apply for rental relief\u003c/a> before the March 31, 2022, deadline before continuing with an eviction lawsuit. Renters affected by COVID hardship could prevent an eviction from moving forward if they showed they had applied for the rent relief program as a defense in court. These protections expired on June 30.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Certain jurisdictions — like Alameda County, San Francisco and Marin County — have their own local protections in place that may still shield some tenants from eviction. \u003ca href=\"#rentreliefwaiting\">Read more about resources for people at risk of eviction.\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Joshua Howard, of the California Apartment Association, says his group is advising its members to hold off on evicting tenants who are still awaiting aid.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“It’s better to wait and get the money than to go through with the time, cost and stress of an eviction,” Howard said, “especially knowing those funds from the government are just around the corner.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Attorney General Rob Bonta also issued legal guidance on July 13 to police and sheriff’s departments across the state on how to respond to reports of illegal eviction. That may include landlords changing the locks, shutting off water or electricity, and removing tenants’ belongings in order to force a tenant out of their home, among other behaviors.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“California’s families are facing a housing affordability crisis at levels never seen before,” he said. “We are facing an eviction crisis.”\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Applicants left in limbo\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>The state processed 136,386 applications, or about 11,365 a week, since it stopped accepting new applications on April 1, said Alicia Murillo, a spokesperson for the \u003ca href=\"https://www.hcd.ca.gov/\">California Department of Housing and Community Development\u003c/a> (HCD).\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“We have met our goals for processing applications and continue to work diligently to ensure we provide assistance to the qualified applicants,” Murillo said at the end of June. “We are on track to have all initial applications determined by June 30.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_11883639\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\" style=\"max-width: 1024px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-11883639 size-full\" src=\"https://ww2.kqed.org/app/uploads/sites/10/2021/08/GettyImages-1228140778.jpg\" alt='A woman holds up a big sign that says \"Cancel Rents or People Die.\"' width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2021/08/GettyImages-1228140778.jpg 1024w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2021/08/GettyImages-1228140778-800x534.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2021/08/GettyImages-1228140778-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2021/08/GettyImages-1228140778-160x107.jpg 160w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Los Angeles renters and housing advocates demonstrate on Aug. 21, 2020, against evictions in the region. \u003ccite>(Valerie Macon/AFP via Getty Images)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>She added, “That is to say, the only remaining applications in the system are those in an appeal process or those where there is still missing or unverifiable information from an applicant.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But some tenants say they have been frustrated when their attempts to add or verify information are not accepted.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Yadira Placante, a Los Angeles renter, said she received two notices that her application was declined because she was unresponsive, despite two phone calls and an email attempting to respond to the requests.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“I called them and asked them what happened, and they told me I needed to appeal,” Placante said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Instead, she put in a new application. That was about three months ago, and Placante says she is still waiting for a response.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“It’s been very, very, very like a nightmare for us,” Placante said.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>A rise in denied applications\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>In May, a coalition of tenant organizations filed a lawsuit against the state, claiming its process for denying applications is unfair and opaque. Since the program closed to new applicants on April 1, denials increased from around 20% to about 33% of all applications, Treuhaft said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“We’ve seen this spike in denials,” she said. “So, that raises big questions around, are people receiving due process or should they actually be denied this assistance?”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>On July 7, a judge agreed and ordered HCD to stop issuing denials. Applicants have 30 days to file an appeal, so the judge also ordered the state to keep those cases open until it could determine whether the agency’s process for issuing denials violates applicants’ right to due process.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>HCD’s Murillo said all denials receive explanations for why they were denied. The main reason, she said, is that the applicant didn’t qualify for assistance.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_11909167\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\" style=\"max-width: 1920px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-11909167\" src=\"https://ww2.kqed.org/app/uploads/sites/10/2022/03/RS50490_007_SanFrancisco_Housing_07292021-qut.jpg\" alt=\"A red 'for rent' sign hangs in window of classic SF victorian building with downtown skyline in background\" width=\"1920\" height=\"1280\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/03/RS50490_007_SanFrancisco_Housing_07292021-qut.jpg 1920w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/03/RS50490_007_SanFrancisco_Housing_07292021-qut-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/03/RS50490_007_SanFrancisco_Housing_07292021-qut-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/03/RS50490_007_SanFrancisco_Housing_07292021-qut-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/03/RS50490_007_SanFrancisco_Housing_07292021-qut-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">A ‘For Rent’ sign hangs in the window of an apartment building in Nob Hill in San Francisco on July 29, 2021. \u003ccite>(Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>That could be for a number of factors, including that the applicant’s income was too high, or they couldn’t demonstrate they were a tenant or that they had lost income during the pandemic. Murillo said that as of June 3, about 89,000 applications, or 62% of denials, were for these reasons.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The remaining 38%, or around 55,200 applications, were denied due to non-responsiveness, she said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“If an applicant believes we made an error or has more information to share, they can \u003ca href=\"https://housing.ca.gov/\">file an appeal through the online portal\u003c/a> or by calling the hotline [at (833) 430-2122],” Murillo said. “We also have an appointment center available to help applicants through the appeal in English and other languages.”\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>‘Families just like mine’\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>But despite the state’s efforts to keep residents housed during the pandemic, some have been evicted anyway.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Delilah Medina of South Los Angeles lost her hotel job during the pandemic. She started working at Walmart, even though it was a big pay cut.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Medina applied for rent relief and got some money but had to reapply in January for more.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Shortly after that, she said, her partner received an eviction notice. Since her name was on the rent relief application, the landlord was able to skirt the state protections.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“We are not shiftless people,” Medina said. “We are like the millions of Americans who don’t make a wage that supports the rising cost of rent and living.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Medina says now, she and her two young children live in her car. They occasionally use a friend’s house to shower and rest during the day.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“How many more families just like mine are going to suffer?” she asks.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad fullwidth]\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>\u003ca id=\"rentreliefwaiting\">\u003c/a>What to do if you’re under threat of eviction\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Check whether your city or county has eviction protections\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Several cities and counties across the state had their own rent-related eviction moratoriums that stayed in place after the state moratorium expired. In the Bay Area, those places are:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.acgov.org/cda/hcd/\">Alameda County\u003c/a>: The eviction moratorium ordinance will remain in effect until 60 days after the local health emergency is lifted. \u003ca href=\"https://www.acgov.org/cda/hcd/\">Read more about Alameda County’s eviction moratorium.\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.cityofberkeley.info/Rent_Stabilization_Board/Home/Can_t_Pay_Rent_Due_to_COVID-19_.aspx\">City of Berkeley\u003c/a>: Berkeley’s eviction moratorium will end once the local COVID-19 emergency order is lifted. \u003ca href=\"https://www.cityofberkeley.info/Rent_Stabilization_Board/Home/Can_t_Pay_Rent_Due_to_COVID-19_.aspx\">Read more about the city of Berkeley’s eviction moratorium.\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.oaklandca.gov/news/2021/state-extends-eviction-moratorium-what-this-means-for-oakland-tenants-and-property-managers\">City of Oakland\u003c/a>: Oakland’s moratorium on evictions and rent increases will last until the local emergency is terminated by the Oakland City Council. \u003ca href=\"https://www.oaklandca.gov/news/2021/state-extends-eviction-moratorium-what-this-means-for-oakland-tenants-and-property-managers\">Read more about the city of Oakland’s eviction moratorium.\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.solanocounty.com/depts/ph/coronavirus_links/faq___eviction_moratorium.asp\">Solano County\u003c/a>: Solano County’s ban on COVID-19-related evictions will extend for an additional 90 days once the county’s state of emergency has been lifted. \u003ca href=\"https://www.solanocounty.com/depts/ph/coronavirus_links/faq___eviction_moratorium.asp\">Read more about Solano County’s eviction moratorium.\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>San Francisco’s local rules continue to ban evictions for a number of reasons, including owner move-in, condo conversion, breach of contract, capital improvements and demolition. But \u003ca href=\"https://sfrb.org/temporary-eviction-moratorium\">evictions in San Francisco \u003cem>can\u003c/em> move forward for nonpayment of rent\u003c/a>, for health or safety issues, or if the owner decides to remove the property from the rental market. San Francisco also \u003ca href=\"https://sf.gov/information/covid-19-emergency-tenant-protections\">introduced new eviction protections for renters starting April 1\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_11918427\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\" style=\"max-width: 1920px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-11918427\" src=\"https://ww2.kqed.org/app/uploads/sites/10/2022/06/RS57002_005_KQED_HousingSulimaNavarrete_06292022-qut.jpg\" alt=\"A woman, Sulima Navarrete, wearing a white shirt holds a cardboard box containing an old-looking faucet. The photo is taken above looking down directly into the box\" width=\"1920\" height=\"1280\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/06/RS57002_005_KQED_HousingSulimaNavarrete_06292022-qut.jpg 1920w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/06/RS57002_005_KQED_HousingSulimaNavarrete_06292022-qut-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/06/RS57002_005_KQED_HousingSulimaNavarrete_06292022-qut-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/06/RS57002_005_KQED_HousingSulimaNavarrete_06292022-qut-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/06/RS57002_005_KQED_HousingSulimaNavarrete_06292022-qut-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Sulima Navarrete holds an old faucet that she paid to replace at the apartment in Richmond she shares with her family on June 26, 2022. \u003ccite>(Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Find resources and legal assistance\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>According to the ACLU, \u003ca href=\"https://www.aclu.org/news/racial-justice/tenants-right-to-counsel-is-critical-to-fight-mass-evictions-and-advance-race-equity-during-the-pandemic-and-beyond/\">10% of tenants have an attorney in court, compared with 90% of landlords\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.lawhelpca.org/legal-information\">Find a legal aid office near you \u003c/a>via LawHelpCA. You can also use the Housing Is Key site to \u003ca href=\"https://housing.ca.gov/tenant/resources.html\">find eviction resources for tenants\u003c/a>, or \u003ca href=\"https://housing.ca.gov/covid_rr/resources.html#local_resources\">look up whether your city or county has additional resources, including local rent relief programs\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Lorraine López, senior attorney with the Western Center on Law and Poverty, recommends that you also look up community organizations and nonprofit legal services that assist tenants, and access their information sheets, workshops and clinics to educate you about your rights in the event your landlord issues you with a legal notice.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Don’t move out\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you’re facing eviction, López says it’s critical that you don’t move out of your home.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“We call this ‘self-eviction,'” she explains, and said while “many tenants think that a notice is enough to evict them, in California a landlord needs to get a court order to remove you from your home.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>So until a court has issued an order telling you to move? Don’t leave.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“In some cities and counties, a landlord can face not only criminal penalties if they forcibly remove you from your home without a court order, but also monetary penalties if the tenant files a lawsuit. The moment you leave, you lose many valuable protections and you may even end up with a judgment against you,” said López.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>KQED’s Carly Severn and Kate Wolffe contributed to this story.\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>This story has been updated.\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad floatright]\u003c/p>\n",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003cp>Tenants who have applied to \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11908640/covid-rent-relief-taking-a-long-time-to-process-what-you-can-do-if-youre-waiting\">California’s emergency COVID rent relief program\u003c/a> and are still awaiting a response now can be evicted from their homes, as the last of the state’s pandemic-era eviction protections expired on June 30.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Sulima Navarrete, of Richmond, applied for rent relief in October after her husband lost his job during the pandemic doing construction work.\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Jump to: \u003ca href=\"#rentreliefwaiting\">What to do if you’re now under threat of eviction\u003c/a>\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>He also contracted COVID and is still experiencing fatigue and other symptoms, making it hard for him to find new work, she said. The couple has three children, ranging in age from 6 to 20.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“It’s frustrating because it’s not something we asked for,” Navarrete said in Spanish. “It’s something the pandemic brought.”\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Exposed to eviction\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>Navarrete is one of 34,510 applicants for the state’s rental aid program, called \u003ca href=\"https://housing.ca.gov/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Housing Is Key\u003c/a>, whose applications were still under review as of June 29.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“It’s highly unlikely that [the state is] going to get through all these applications by June 30th when the eviction protections expire,” said Sarah Treuhaft, a researcher at PolicyLink.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“So, that means that people will still be waiting in line, and they will be exposed to eviction. They’re likely to be evicted or have eviction proceedings against them,” said Treuhaft.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_11918384\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1920px\">\u003ca href=\"https://ww2.kqed.org/app/uploads/sites/10/2022/06/RS56999_003_KQED_HousingSulimaNavarrete_06292022-qut.jpg\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-11918384\" src=\"https://ww2.kqed.org/app/uploads/sites/10/2022/06/RS56999_003_KQED_HousingSulimaNavarrete_06292022-qut.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1920\" height=\"1280\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/06/RS56999_003_KQED_HousingSulimaNavarrete_06292022-qut.jpg 1920w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/06/RS56999_003_KQED_HousingSulimaNavarrete_06292022-qut-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/06/RS56999_003_KQED_HousingSulimaNavarrete_06292022-qut-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/06/RS56999_003_KQED_HousingSulimaNavarrete_06292022-qut-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/06/RS56999_003_KQED_HousingSulimaNavarrete_06292022-qut-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px\">\u003c/a>\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Sulima Navarrete organizes food in her kitchen at the apartment she has rented with her family, on June 26, 2022. She applied for rent relief in October but is still awaiting a response from the state on whether her application will be approved. \u003ccite>(Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>This includes Navarrete, who has already received an eviction notice from her landlord.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“They don’t understand,” Navarrete said of state officials. “The help is coming too late.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>California’s statewide moratorium on evictions expired last fall, on Sept. 30, 2021. The state’s rent relief program has afforded its own kind of eviction protections since then, since \u003ca href=\"https://housing.ca.gov/tenant/protection_guidelines.html\">any landlord wanting to evict a tenant for failing to pay rent as a result of COVID hardship needed to first apply for rental relief\u003c/a> before the March 31, 2022, deadline before continuing with an eviction lawsuit. Renters affected by COVID hardship could prevent an eviction from moving forward if they showed they had applied for the rent relief program as a defense in court. These protections expired on June 30.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Certain jurisdictions — like Alameda County, San Francisco and Marin County — have their own local protections in place that may still shield some tenants from eviction. \u003ca href=\"#rentreliefwaiting\">Read more about resources for people at risk of eviction.\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Joshua Howard, of the California Apartment Association, says his group is advising its members to hold off on evicting tenants who are still awaiting aid.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“It’s better to wait and get the money than to go through with the time, cost and stress of an eviction,” Howard said, “especially knowing those funds from the government are just around the corner.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Attorney General Rob Bonta also issued legal guidance on July 13 to police and sheriff’s departments across the state on how to respond to reports of illegal eviction. That may include landlords changing the locks, shutting off water or electricity, and removing tenants’ belongings in order to force a tenant out of their home, among other behaviors.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“California’s families are facing a housing affordability crisis at levels never seen before,” he said. “We are facing an eviction crisis.”\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Applicants left in limbo\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>The state processed 136,386 applications, or about 11,365 a week, since it stopped accepting new applications on April 1, said Alicia Murillo, a spokesperson for the \u003ca href=\"https://www.hcd.ca.gov/\">California Department of Housing and Community Development\u003c/a> (HCD).\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“We have met our goals for processing applications and continue to work diligently to ensure we provide assistance to the qualified applicants,” Murillo said at the end of June. “We are on track to have all initial applications determined by June 30.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_11883639\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\" style=\"max-width: 1024px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-11883639 size-full\" src=\"https://ww2.kqed.org/app/uploads/sites/10/2021/08/GettyImages-1228140778.jpg\" alt='A woman holds up a big sign that says \"Cancel Rents or People Die.\"' width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2021/08/GettyImages-1228140778.jpg 1024w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2021/08/GettyImages-1228140778-800x534.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2021/08/GettyImages-1228140778-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2021/08/GettyImages-1228140778-160x107.jpg 160w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Los Angeles renters and housing advocates demonstrate on Aug. 21, 2020, against evictions in the region. \u003ccite>(Valerie Macon/AFP via Getty Images)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>She added, “That is to say, the only remaining applications in the system are those in an appeal process or those where there is still missing or unverifiable information from an applicant.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But some tenants say they have been frustrated when their attempts to add or verify information are not accepted.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Yadira Placante, a Los Angeles renter, said she received two notices that her application was declined because she was unresponsive, despite two phone calls and an email attempting to respond to the requests.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“I called them and asked them what happened, and they told me I needed to appeal,” Placante said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Instead, she put in a new application. That was about three months ago, and Placante says she is still waiting for a response.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“It’s been very, very, very like a nightmare for us,” Placante said.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>A rise in denied applications\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>In May, a coalition of tenant organizations filed a lawsuit against the state, claiming its process for denying applications is unfair and opaque. Since the program closed to new applicants on April 1, denials increased from around 20% to about 33% of all applications, Treuhaft said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“We’ve seen this spike in denials,” she said. “So, that raises big questions around, are people receiving due process or should they actually be denied this assistance?”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>On July 7, a judge agreed and ordered HCD to stop issuing denials. Applicants have 30 days to file an appeal, so the judge also ordered the state to keep those cases open until it could determine whether the agency’s process for issuing denials violates applicants’ right to due process.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>HCD’s Murillo said all denials receive explanations for why they were denied. The main reason, she said, is that the applicant didn’t qualify for assistance.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_11909167\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\" style=\"max-width: 1920px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-11909167\" src=\"https://ww2.kqed.org/app/uploads/sites/10/2022/03/RS50490_007_SanFrancisco_Housing_07292021-qut.jpg\" alt=\"A red 'for rent' sign hangs in window of classic SF victorian building with downtown skyline in background\" width=\"1920\" height=\"1280\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/03/RS50490_007_SanFrancisco_Housing_07292021-qut.jpg 1920w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/03/RS50490_007_SanFrancisco_Housing_07292021-qut-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/03/RS50490_007_SanFrancisco_Housing_07292021-qut-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/03/RS50490_007_SanFrancisco_Housing_07292021-qut-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/03/RS50490_007_SanFrancisco_Housing_07292021-qut-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">A ‘For Rent’ sign hangs in the window of an apartment building in Nob Hill in San Francisco on July 29, 2021. \u003ccite>(Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>That could be for a number of factors, including that the applicant’s income was too high, or they couldn’t demonstrate they were a tenant or that they had lost income during the pandemic. Murillo said that as of June 3, about 89,000 applications, or 62% of denials, were for these reasons.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The remaining 38%, or around 55,200 applications, were denied due to non-responsiveness, she said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“If an applicant believes we made an error or has more information to share, they can \u003ca href=\"https://housing.ca.gov/\">file an appeal through the online portal\u003c/a> or by calling the hotline [at (833) 430-2122],” Murillo said. “We also have an appointment center available to help applicants through the appeal in English and other languages.”\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>‘Families just like mine’\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>But despite the state’s efforts to keep residents housed during the pandemic, some have been evicted anyway.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Delilah Medina of South Los Angeles lost her hotel job during the pandemic. She started working at Walmart, even though it was a big pay cut.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Medina applied for rent relief and got some money but had to reapply in January for more.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Shortly after that, she said, her partner received an eviction notice. Since her name was on the rent relief application, the landlord was able to skirt the state protections.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“We are not shiftless people,” Medina said. “We are like the millions of Americans who don’t make a wage that supports the rising cost of rent and living.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Medina says now, she and her two young children live in her car. They occasionally use a friend’s house to shower and rest during the day.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“How many more families just like mine are going to suffer?” she asks.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>\u003ca id=\"rentreliefwaiting\">\u003c/a>What to do if you’re under threat of eviction\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Check whether your city or county has eviction protections\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Several cities and counties across the state had their own rent-related eviction moratoriums that stayed in place after the state moratorium expired. In the Bay Area, those places are:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.acgov.org/cda/hcd/\">Alameda County\u003c/a>: The eviction moratorium ordinance will remain in effect until 60 days after the local health emergency is lifted. \u003ca href=\"https://www.acgov.org/cda/hcd/\">Read more about Alameda County’s eviction moratorium.\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.cityofberkeley.info/Rent_Stabilization_Board/Home/Can_t_Pay_Rent_Due_to_COVID-19_.aspx\">City of Berkeley\u003c/a>: Berkeley’s eviction moratorium will end once the local COVID-19 emergency order is lifted. \u003ca href=\"https://www.cityofberkeley.info/Rent_Stabilization_Board/Home/Can_t_Pay_Rent_Due_to_COVID-19_.aspx\">Read more about the city of Berkeley’s eviction moratorium.\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.oaklandca.gov/news/2021/state-extends-eviction-moratorium-what-this-means-for-oakland-tenants-and-property-managers\">City of Oakland\u003c/a>: Oakland’s moratorium on evictions and rent increases will last until the local emergency is terminated by the Oakland City Council. \u003ca href=\"https://www.oaklandca.gov/news/2021/state-extends-eviction-moratorium-what-this-means-for-oakland-tenants-and-property-managers\">Read more about the city of Oakland’s eviction moratorium.\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.solanocounty.com/depts/ph/coronavirus_links/faq___eviction_moratorium.asp\">Solano County\u003c/a>: Solano County’s ban on COVID-19-related evictions will extend for an additional 90 days once the county’s state of emergency has been lifted. \u003ca href=\"https://www.solanocounty.com/depts/ph/coronavirus_links/faq___eviction_moratorium.asp\">Read more about Solano County’s eviction moratorium.\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>San Francisco’s local rules continue to ban evictions for a number of reasons, including owner move-in, condo conversion, breach of contract, capital improvements and demolition. But \u003ca href=\"https://sfrb.org/temporary-eviction-moratorium\">evictions in San Francisco \u003cem>can\u003c/em> move forward for nonpayment of rent\u003c/a>, for health or safety issues, or if the owner decides to remove the property from the rental market. San Francisco also \u003ca href=\"https://sf.gov/information/covid-19-emergency-tenant-protections\">introduced new eviction protections for renters starting April 1\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_11918427\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\" style=\"max-width: 1920px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-11918427\" src=\"https://ww2.kqed.org/app/uploads/sites/10/2022/06/RS57002_005_KQED_HousingSulimaNavarrete_06292022-qut.jpg\" alt=\"A woman, Sulima Navarrete, wearing a white shirt holds a cardboard box containing an old-looking faucet. The photo is taken above looking down directly into the box\" width=\"1920\" height=\"1280\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/06/RS57002_005_KQED_HousingSulimaNavarrete_06292022-qut.jpg 1920w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/06/RS57002_005_KQED_HousingSulimaNavarrete_06292022-qut-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/06/RS57002_005_KQED_HousingSulimaNavarrete_06292022-qut-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/06/RS57002_005_KQED_HousingSulimaNavarrete_06292022-qut-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/06/RS57002_005_KQED_HousingSulimaNavarrete_06292022-qut-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Sulima Navarrete holds an old faucet that she paid to replace at the apartment in Richmond she shares with her family on June 26, 2022. \u003ccite>(Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Find resources and legal assistance\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>According to the ACLU, \u003ca href=\"https://www.aclu.org/news/racial-justice/tenants-right-to-counsel-is-critical-to-fight-mass-evictions-and-advance-race-equity-during-the-pandemic-and-beyond/\">10% of tenants have an attorney in court, compared with 90% of landlords\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.lawhelpca.org/legal-information\">Find a legal aid office near you \u003c/a>via LawHelpCA. You can also use the Housing Is Key site to \u003ca href=\"https://housing.ca.gov/tenant/resources.html\">find eviction resources for tenants\u003c/a>, or \u003ca href=\"https://housing.ca.gov/covid_rr/resources.html#local_resources\">look up whether your city or county has additional resources, including local rent relief programs\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Lorraine López, senior attorney with the Western Center on Law and Poverty, recommends that you also look up community organizations and nonprofit legal services that assist tenants, and access their information sheets, workshops and clinics to educate you about your rights in the event your landlord issues you with a legal notice.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Don’t move out\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you’re facing eviction, López says it’s critical that you don’t move out of your home.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“We call this ‘self-eviction,'” she explains, and said while “many tenants think that a notice is enough to evict them, in California a landlord needs to get a court order to remove you from your home.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>So until a court has issued an order telling you to move? Don’t leave.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“In some cities and counties, a landlord can face not only criminal penalties if they forcibly remove you from your home without a court order, but also monetary penalties if the tenant files a lawsuit. The moment you leave, you lose many valuable protections and you may even end up with a judgment against you,” said López.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>KQED’s Carly Severn and Kate Wolffe contributed to this story.\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>This story has been updated.\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"disqusTitle": "COVID Vaccines For Kids Under 5 Are Here. Here's How to Find One",
"title": "COVID Vaccines For Kids Under 5 Are Here. Here's How to Find One",
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"content": "\u003cp>\u003cem>This story was updated 12:40 p.m. on Thursday, June 23\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2022/06/18/1105929247/vaccinations-for-children-6-months-to-5-years-old-can-begin-after-cdc-clears-the\">COVID vaccines for kids under 5 are now approved\u003c/a> and are rolling out across the Bay Area.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>It's the first time this age group has been eligible to get their COVID shot.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>How we got here: On June 16, the FDA formally approved use of the Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna COVID vaccines under 5. On June 25, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) voted unanimously in favor of recommending these vaccines. Hours later, CDC Director Rochelle Walensky officially signed off, making vaccines for kids under 5 available for rollout nationwide starting the week of June 20.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\"We know millions of parents and caregivers are eager to get their young children vaccinated, and with today's decision, they can,\" Walensky said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>We'll keep updating this guide as we find out more information about getting a COVID vaccine for kids under 5 in the Bay Area.\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Skip to: \u003ca href=\"#findbooster\">Find a COVID vaccine for a kid under 5 near you\u003c/a>\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003ch2>What to know about COVID vaccines for kids under 5\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>Children under five years old now have two options for getting a COVID vaccine: Pfizer or Moderna. Both vaccines are only available for kids age at least 6 months.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Pfizer's pediatric COVID vaccine is:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>Available for children aged between 6 months and four years old\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Given in three separate doses (3 micrograms, i.e. one-tenth of an adult dose)\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>The first two shots of Pfizer's pediatric vaccines are given three weeks apart, and the third one eight weeks after the second shot.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Moderna's pediatric COVID vaccine is:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>Available for children aged between 6 months and five years old\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Given in two separate doses (at 25 micrograms, one-fourth of an adult dose.)\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>The two shots of Moderna's pediatric vaccine are given four weeks apart.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Which COVID vaccine should a child under 5 get, Pfizer or Moderna? In a call with reporters earlier this week, vaccine experts noted that the two kinds of shots haven’t been tested against each other — so right now, there’s no way to tell parents and caregivers if one \u003cem>is\u003c/em> superior or not.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"Component-root-0-2-72 Component-p-0-2-63\">\"You can’t compare the vaccines directly,\" said Dr. Jesse Goodman of Georgetown University, a former FDA vaccine chief.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"Component-root-0-2-72 Component-p-0-2-63\">Dr. Peter Marks, the FDA’s vaccine chief, echoed this. \"Whatever vaccine your health care provider, pediatrician has, that’s what I would give my child,\" Marks said Friday when the FDA approved these vaccines.[aside postID=news_11890031 hero='https://ww2.kqed.org/app/uploads/sites/10/2021/09/GettyImages-1234768670-1920x1277.jpg']\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Why should kids under 5 get the COVID vaccine?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>The FDA's expert advisory panel voted unanimously that the benefits of these COVID vaccines outweigh any risks for children under 5 — that’s roughly 18 million kids across the United States.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Dr. Peter Marks opened the panel's meeting with data showing what he termed a \"quite troubling surge\" in young children’s hospitalizations during the omicron wave. Marks noted that 442 children under 4 have died during the pandemic, saying that while that number was far lower than deaths among adults, the data shouldn't be dismissed in considering the need for vaccinating the youngest kids.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://edsource.org/updates/covid-vaccination-rates-in-children-5-to-11-lagging-badly-in-california\">Low vaccination rates among Californian children age \u003cem>over\u003c/em> 5 have been of concern to doctors for months\u003c/a>, with experts pointing to misinformation about COVID vaccines as one reason for low vaccine numbers.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>\u003ca id=\"findbooster\">\u003c/a>Where can I find a COVID vaccine for kids under 5?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>Remember that a certain location may only be offering a certain type of vaccine, whether that's Moderna, Pfizer or J&J, or only be providing these pediatric vaccines to certain age bands within the 6 months - 5 years range. Make sure that the location you're walking into or where you're making an appointment offers the pediatric Pfizer or Moderna vaccine for this age group.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>1. Find a Pfizer or Moderna vaccine for kids under 5 through a local pharmacy.\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Several pharmacy chains are offering online appointments for COVID vaccines, and some also offer walk-in vaccines with no appointment.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The state says that pharmacies aren't authorized to vaccinate children age 2 and under. This means that unless your child is age 3 or older, you won't be able to get their COVID shot at a pharmacy. The state's My Turn site recommends parents and caregiver of kids in this age group \"schedule with your child's healthcare provider or local health clinic\" instead of a pharmacy (more on that below.)\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The exception to this is CVS's MinuteClinics, which are staffed by providers who can administer a COVID vaccine to kids age 18 months and older.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Find a pharmacy appointment near you:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.cvs.com/immunizations/covid-19-vaccine?icid=cvs-home-hero1-banner-1-link2-coronavirus-vaccine\">CVS COVID-19 vaccine appointments \u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.riteaid.com/pharmacy/covid-qualifier?utm_source=state&utm_medium=web&utm_campaign=Covid19&utm_content=Covid19scheduler_CA_2_12_21\">Rite Aid COVID-19 vaccine appointments\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.mhealthappointments.com/covidappt\">Safeway (Albertsons) COVID-19 vaccine appointments\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.walgreens.com/findcare/vaccination/covid-19?ban=covid_vaccine_landing_schedule\">Walgreens COVID-19 vaccine appointments\u003c/a>, or call (800) WALGREENS/(800) 925-4733\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://costcorx.appointment-plus.com/appointments/book?section=typeOfVaccine&workflow=default\">Costco's COVID-19 vaccine appointments\u003cbr>\n\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>2. Find a Pfizer or Moderna vaccine for kids under 5 through your health care provider or pediatrician.\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you have health insurance, check with your provider or your child's pediatrician to see whether they can offer the COVID vaccine for a kid under 5.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you don't have health insurance but get medical care through a city- or county-run provider, you can check with that location. Remember that it may take a little while for providers to start offering COVID vaccines for a children under 5.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>3. Find a Pfizer or Moderna vaccine for kids under 5 through My Turn.\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://myturn.ca.gov/\">My Turn is the state's tool\u003c/a> that allows Californians to schedule vaccination appointments, as supplies allow. You can also try to \u003ca href=\"https://myturn.ca.gov/clinic.html\">find a walk-in appointment through My Turn\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>When appointments become available as supply allows, you can \u003ca href=\"https://myturn.ca.gov/\">visit the My Turn page\u003c/a> and select \"Make an Appointment.\" My Turn will ask you for your information, and then for the ZIP code or location you'd like to use to search for vaccine appointments. You can give your home location, or you can input other locations to see which sites are available farther from your home.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you can't travel with a child to a clinic for their vaccine because of health or transportation issues, you can note this when registering on My Turn, and representatives from the California Department of Public Health will call you to arrange an in-home visit or transportation.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you don't have an email address or a cellphone number, or you have questions, you can call the California COVID-19 hotline at (833) 422-4255 (Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-8 p.m., Saturday and Sunday 8 a.m.-5 p.m PT) and sign up over the phone. English-speaking and Spanish-speaking operators are available. Callers needing information in other languages will be connected to a translation service that offers assistance in over 250 languages.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_11889661\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\" style=\"max-width: 1920px\">\u003cimg class=\"size-full wp-image-11889661\" src=\"https://ww2.kqed.org/app/uploads/sites/10/2021/09/michigan_shot_gettyimages-1234850852-8f2a1402d5a0ab808313f55bdac52f950c8ad974-scaled-e1632414475184.jpg\" alt=\"Blue-gloved hands administer a vaccine into a shoulder.\" width=\"1920\" height=\"1440\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Rufus Peoples receives his booster dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech coronavirus vaccine during an Oakland County Health Department vaccination clinic at the Southfield Pavilion on Aug. 24, 2021, in Southfield, Michigan. \u003ccite>(Emily Elconin/Getty Images)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>4. Find a Pfizer or Moderna vaccine for kids under 5 through your county.\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11855623/where-can-i-get-a-covid-19-vaccine-in-the-bay-area-your-questions-answered#county\">Visit your county's public health website \u003c/a>to learn how your county is vaccinating its residents. Remember that it may take a little while for county-run vaccination sites to start offering COVID vaccines for kids under 5.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11855623/where-can-i-get-a-covid-19-vaccine-in-the-bay-area-your-questions-answered#county\">Find your Bay Area county in our list.\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>This story contains reporting from the Associated Press.\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad fullwidth]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad floatright]\u003c/p>\n",
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"excerpt": "COVID vaccines for kids under 5 are finally now approved. Here's how to find a shot near you.",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003cp>\u003cem>This story was updated 12:40 p.m. on Thursday, June 23\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2022/06/18/1105929247/vaccinations-for-children-6-months-to-5-years-old-can-begin-after-cdc-clears-the\">COVID vaccines for kids under 5 are now approved\u003c/a> and are rolling out across the Bay Area.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>It's the first time this age group has been eligible to get their COVID shot.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>How we got here: On June 16, the FDA formally approved use of the Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna COVID vaccines under 5. On June 25, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) voted unanimously in favor of recommending these vaccines. Hours later, CDC Director Rochelle Walensky officially signed off, making vaccines for kids under 5 available for rollout nationwide starting the week of June 20.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\"We know millions of parents and caregivers are eager to get their young children vaccinated, and with today's decision, they can,\" Walensky said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>We'll keep updating this guide as we find out more information about getting a COVID vaccine for kids under 5 in the Bay Area.\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Skip to: \u003ca href=\"#findbooster\">Find a COVID vaccine for a kid under 5 near you\u003c/a>\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003ch2>What to know about COVID vaccines for kids under 5\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>Children under five years old now have two options for getting a COVID vaccine: Pfizer or Moderna. Both vaccines are only available for kids age at least 6 months.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Pfizer's pediatric COVID vaccine is:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>Available for children aged between 6 months and four years old\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Given in three separate doses (3 micrograms, i.e. one-tenth of an adult dose)\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>The first two shots of Pfizer's pediatric vaccines are given three weeks apart, and the third one eight weeks after the second shot.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Moderna's pediatric COVID vaccine is:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>Available for children aged between 6 months and five years old\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Given in two separate doses (at 25 micrograms, one-fourth of an adult dose.)\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>The two shots of Moderna's pediatric vaccine are given four weeks apart.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Which COVID vaccine should a child under 5 get, Pfizer or Moderna? In a call with reporters earlier this week, vaccine experts noted that the two kinds of shots haven’t been tested against each other — so right now, there’s no way to tell parents and caregivers if one \u003cem>is\u003c/em> superior or not.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"Component-root-0-2-72 Component-p-0-2-63\">\"You can’t compare the vaccines directly,\" said Dr. Jesse Goodman of Georgetown University, a former FDA vaccine chief.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp class=\"Component-root-0-2-72 Component-p-0-2-63\">Dr. Peter Marks, the FDA’s vaccine chief, echoed this. \"Whatever vaccine your health care provider, pediatrician has, that’s what I would give my child,\" Marks said Friday when the FDA approved these vaccines.\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Why should kids under 5 get the COVID vaccine?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>The FDA's expert advisory panel voted unanimously that the benefits of these COVID vaccines outweigh any risks for children under 5 — that’s roughly 18 million kids across the United States.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Dr. Peter Marks opened the panel's meeting with data showing what he termed a \"quite troubling surge\" in young children’s hospitalizations during the omicron wave. Marks noted that 442 children under 4 have died during the pandemic, saying that while that number was far lower than deaths among adults, the data shouldn't be dismissed in considering the need for vaccinating the youngest kids.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://edsource.org/updates/covid-vaccination-rates-in-children-5-to-11-lagging-badly-in-california\">Low vaccination rates among Californian children age \u003cem>over\u003c/em> 5 have been of concern to doctors for months\u003c/a>, with experts pointing to misinformation about COVID vaccines as one reason for low vaccine numbers.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>\u003ca id=\"findbooster\">\u003c/a>Where can I find a COVID vaccine for kids under 5?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>Remember that a certain location may only be offering a certain type of vaccine, whether that's Moderna, Pfizer or J&J, or only be providing these pediatric vaccines to certain age bands within the 6 months - 5 years range. Make sure that the location you're walking into or where you're making an appointment offers the pediatric Pfizer or Moderna vaccine for this age group.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>1. Find a Pfizer or Moderna vaccine for kids under 5 through a local pharmacy.\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Several pharmacy chains are offering online appointments for COVID vaccines, and some also offer walk-in vaccines with no appointment.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The state says that pharmacies aren't authorized to vaccinate children age 2 and under. This means that unless your child is age 3 or older, you won't be able to get their COVID shot at a pharmacy. The state's My Turn site recommends parents and caregiver of kids in this age group \"schedule with your child's healthcare provider or local health clinic\" instead of a pharmacy (more on that below.)\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The exception to this is CVS's MinuteClinics, which are staffed by providers who can administer a COVID vaccine to kids age 18 months and older.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Find a pharmacy appointment near you:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.cvs.com/immunizations/covid-19-vaccine?icid=cvs-home-hero1-banner-1-link2-coronavirus-vaccine\">CVS COVID-19 vaccine appointments \u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.riteaid.com/pharmacy/covid-qualifier?utm_source=state&utm_medium=web&utm_campaign=Covid19&utm_content=Covid19scheduler_CA_2_12_21\">Rite Aid COVID-19 vaccine appointments\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.mhealthappointments.com/covidappt\">Safeway (Albertsons) COVID-19 vaccine appointments\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.walgreens.com/findcare/vaccination/covid-19?ban=covid_vaccine_landing_schedule\">Walgreens COVID-19 vaccine appointments\u003c/a>, or call (800) WALGREENS/(800) 925-4733\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://costcorx.appointment-plus.com/appointments/book?section=typeOfVaccine&workflow=default\">Costco's COVID-19 vaccine appointments\u003cbr>\n\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>2. Find a Pfizer or Moderna vaccine for kids under 5 through your health care provider or pediatrician.\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you have health insurance, check with your provider or your child's pediatrician to see whether they can offer the COVID vaccine for a kid under 5.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you don't have health insurance but get medical care through a city- or county-run provider, you can check with that location. Remember that it may take a little while for providers to start offering COVID vaccines for a children under 5.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>3. Find a Pfizer or Moderna vaccine for kids under 5 through My Turn.\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://myturn.ca.gov/\">My Turn is the state's tool\u003c/a> that allows Californians to schedule vaccination appointments, as supplies allow. You can also try to \u003ca href=\"https://myturn.ca.gov/clinic.html\">find a walk-in appointment through My Turn\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>When appointments become available as supply allows, you can \u003ca href=\"https://myturn.ca.gov/\">visit the My Turn page\u003c/a> and select \"Make an Appointment.\" My Turn will ask you for your information, and then for the ZIP code or location you'd like to use to search for vaccine appointments. You can give your home location, or you can input other locations to see which sites are available farther from your home.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you can't travel with a child to a clinic for their vaccine because of health or transportation issues, you can note this when registering on My Turn, and representatives from the California Department of Public Health will call you to arrange an in-home visit or transportation.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you don't have an email address or a cellphone number, or you have questions, you can call the California COVID-19 hotline at (833) 422-4255 (Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-8 p.m., Saturday and Sunday 8 a.m.-5 p.m PT) and sign up over the phone. English-speaking and Spanish-speaking operators are available. Callers needing information in other languages will be connected to a translation service that offers assistance in over 250 languages.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_11889661\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\" style=\"max-width: 1920px\">\u003cimg class=\"size-full wp-image-11889661\" src=\"https://ww2.kqed.org/app/uploads/sites/10/2021/09/michigan_shot_gettyimages-1234850852-8f2a1402d5a0ab808313f55bdac52f950c8ad974-scaled-e1632414475184.jpg\" alt=\"Blue-gloved hands administer a vaccine into a shoulder.\" width=\"1920\" height=\"1440\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Rufus Peoples receives his booster dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech coronavirus vaccine during an Oakland County Health Department vaccination clinic at the Southfield Pavilion on Aug. 24, 2021, in Southfield, Michigan. \u003ccite>(Emily Elconin/Getty Images)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>4. Find a Pfizer or Moderna vaccine for kids under 5 through your county.\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11855623/where-can-i-get-a-covid-19-vaccine-in-the-bay-area-your-questions-answered#county\">Visit your county's public health website \u003c/a>to learn how your county is vaccinating its residents. Remember that it may take a little while for county-run vaccination sites to start offering COVID vaccines for kids under 5.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11855623/where-can-i-get-a-covid-19-vaccine-in-the-bay-area-your-questions-answered#county\">Find your Bay Area county in our list.\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>This story contains reporting from the Associated Press.\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"title": "Alameda County Mask Mandate Returns — Check Your County's Rules",
"headTitle": "KQED News",
"content": "\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Update, 12 p.m. Tuesday, April 4, 2023:\u003c/strong> On April 3, California health officials announced that the state will no longer require face masks to be worn in health care facilities and other high-risk settings. Additionally, health care workers are no longer required to get the COVID-19 vaccine.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Individual counties still retain the authority to enforce their own additional public health restrictions separate from the state's. Some Bay Area counties, like Contra Costa and Alameda, will continue to require face masks in certain high-risk settings, like nursing facilities. \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11945498/as-california-drops-more-masking-rules-these-bay-area-counties-keep-theirs\">Check your county's new 2023 masking rules.\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Original story, June 2, 2022.\u003c/strong> Alameda County health officials announced Thursday that \u003ca href=\"https://twitter.com/Dare2BWell/status/1532461204907646978?s=20&t=HeuzAVeiuAqoJQz4RMc4zA\">face masks will once again be required in most indoor public settings\u003c/a> starting at 12:01 a.m. on Friday, regardless of vaccination status.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Alameda County lifted its mask mandate last February — but in a press release Thursday, health officials said COVID hospitalization rates have more than doubled in the last month, and that both hospitalizations and daily reported COVID cases now have exceeded their highest rates from last summer's delta variant surge.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\"We expect to reach CDC’s 'High' COVID-19 Community Level soon,\" \u003ca href=\"https://covid-19.acgov.org/covid19-assets/docs/press/press-release-2022.06.02.pdf\">officials said in the press release\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\"We cannot ignore the data, and we can’t predict when this wave may end,\" said Nicholas Moss, Alameda County health officer. \"Putting our masks back on gives us the best opportunity to limit the impact of a prolonged wave on our communities.\"\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Starting Friday, people in Alameda County will be required to wear a face mask in indoor businesses, restaurants and bars, government offices, bus and train stations, hospitals, and correctional centers and on public transportation. While this mandate will also include facilities that serve youth like indoor summer camps, it will not apply to K-12 schools.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Officials with San Francisco, San Mateo, Contra Costa, Santa Clara, Marin, Sonoma and Solano counties told KQED on Thursday that they do not have plans to reinstate an indoor mask mandate at this time. These counties loosened their mask rules earlier this year to align with state guidelines.\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Skip to: \u003ca href=\"#bayarea\">See the current mask mandates in your Bay Area county\u003c/a>\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>The state also announced that, \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11906730/california-relaxes-mask-mandate-in-schools-leaving-decision-to-local-districts\">starting March 12, masks would not be required in schools and child care facilities\u003c/a>, but were strongly recommended. Local communities can still determine their own rules on masking.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>On May 20, Berkeley Unified School District announced that \u003ca href=\"#alamedamaskmandate\">masks were once again required indoors at all BUSD schools\u003c/a> through the end of the 2021-2022 school year due to increased COVID transmission. \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11906730/california-relaxes-mask-mandate-in-schools-leaving-decision-to-local-districts\">Read more about kids masking in schools.\u003c/a>[aside postID=\"news_11911549\"]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Masks had also been required on public transit across the Bay Area, but on April 18, \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11911526/tsa-will-no-longer-enforce-travel-mask-mandate-after-federal-judge-strikes-it-down\">a federal judge in Florida ruled the federal travel mask mandate unlawful\u003c/a>. The Transportation Security Administration later announced it would no longer enforce mask rules inside airports and airplanes and on public transportation. Accordingly, \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11911549\">all Bay Area transit agencies dropped their own mask requirements\u003c/a> — except \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11911549#maskmandate\">BART, which reintroduced its own masking rules\u003c/a> starting on July 28. \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11911549\">Read more about mask rules on public transit.\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Everyone — regardless of vaccination status — will still need to wear a mask in health care settings and congregate settings like correctional facilities, homeless shelters and long-term care facilities.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>We'll continue to update this guide below with details for Bay Area counties as we confirm their decisions.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>What's the difference between California's mask mandate and my county's?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>Counties always have the ability to enact stricter mask rules than the state — so if your county had a mask mandate that’s more restrictive than state rules, that’s the one you had to follow.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>That's why when \u003ca href=\"#santaclaramaskmandate\">Santa Clara County officials announced they would keep more restrictive mask rules in place\u003c/a> after the state's mask mandate expired on Feb. 15, those who work, live and learn in that county still had to follow county rules, despite the statewide mandate ending.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[aside label='Coronavirus Resources' tag='coronavirus-resources-and-explainers']Now that \u003ca href=\"#santaclaramaskmandate\">Santa Clara County has announced it'll drop its mask mandate and align with the state,\u003c/a> starting March 2 most of the Bay Area will be aligned with the \u003ca href=\"https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CID/DCDC/Pages/COVID-19/guidance-for-face-coverings.aspx\">state's new masking guidance\u003c/a>. Both vaccinated and unvaccinated Californians may now take off their masks in most indoor public settings, including stores, restaurants, gyms and movie theaters.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>We’ll continue to closely monitor whether counties will further update their guidance.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Keep reading to find the county where you live, work or study for the latest masking rules, or use the links below — and bookmark this page for updates to mask mandates in the Bay Area.\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Skip to your Bay Area county:\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>\u003ca href=\"#alamedamaskmandate\">Alameda\u003c/a> | \u003ca href=\"#sanfranciscomaskmandate\">San Francisco\u003c/a> | \u003ca href=\"#contracostamaskmandate\">Contra Costa\u003c/a> | \u003ca href=\"#marinmaskmandate\">Marin\u003c/a> | \u003ca href=\"#napamaskmandate\">Napa\u003c/a> | \u003ca href=\"#sanmateomaskmandate\">San Mateo\u003c/a> | \u003ca href=\"#santaclaramaskmandate\">Santa Clara\u003c/a> | \u003ca href=\"#sonomamaskmandate\">Sonoma\u003c/a> | \u003ca href=\"#solanomaskmandate\">Solano\u003c/a>\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>\u003ca id=\"bayarea\">\u003c/a>Mask mandates in Bay Area counties\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>\u003ca id=\"alamedamaskmandate\">\u003c/a>\u003cstrong>Alameda\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>On Thursday, June 2, Alameda County health officials announced they were reinstating a mask mandate for most indoor public settings beginning on June 3, regardless of vaccination status.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The new \u003ca href=\"https://covid-19.acgov.org/covid19-assets/docs/hoo/22-02-face-coverings.pdf\">health order\u003c/a> does not apply to the city of Berkeley, which has its own public health department.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>This means both unvaccinated and vaccinated people are once again required to wear masks in most indoor public spaces, including businesses, restaurants and bars, government offices, public transportation, bus and train stations, hospitals and correctional centers.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>An existing indoor mask mandate remans in effect for health care settings, congregate settings like correctional facilities and homeless shelters, and long-term care facilities, and in K-12 schools and child care settings.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>An earlier indoor mask mandate at all schools that are part of Berkeley Unified School District began May 23. District officials \u003ca href=\"https://www.berkeleyschools.net/2022/05/new-public-health-guidance-from-the-city-of-berkeley-public-health-officer-reinstating-indoor-masking-nuevas-directrices-de-salud-publica-del-funcionario-de-salud-publica-del-gobierno-de-la-c/\">announced this change on May 20\u003c/a> and added that BUSD \" is experiencing an increase in the number of classroom clusters which indicate likely transmission in school.\"\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The mask mandate for BUSD schools will be in place until the end of the 2021-2022 school year.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca id=\"sanfranciscomaskmandate\">\u003c/a>\u003cstrong>San Francisco\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>On June 2, following Alameda County's announcement of a renewed indoor mask mandate, San Francisco officials told KQED that they don't have plans to reinstate a similar mask mandate at this time.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>As of Feb. 16, people who are up to date with their eligible COVID-19 vaccinations — \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11896107/pretty-much-everyone-can-now-get-a-covid-booster-shot-heres-how-to-find-one\">this includes booster shots if you currently qualify\u003c/a> — can take their masks off in indoor public spaces in San Francisco. \u003ca href=\"https://sf.gov/news/sf-aligns-state-recommend-not-require-masks-schools-and-child-care-settings\">Officials confirmed that San Francisco aligned with the state's guidance\u003c/a> to extend this to unvaccinated people as of March 1.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Indoor masking is still required for everyone — regardless of vaccination status — in health care settings, congregate settings like correctional facilities and homeless shelters, long-term care facilities, and in K-12 schools and child care settings.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca id=\"contracostamaskmandate\">\u003c/a>\u003cstrong>Contra Costa\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>On June 2, following Alameda County's announcement of a renewed indoor mask mandate, Contra Costa County officials told KQED that they don't have plans to reinstate a similar mask mandate at this time.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Contra Costa County lifted universal mask requirements for most indoor public settings in the county starting Feb. 16. \u003ca href=\"https://www.coronavirus.cchealth.org/\">Contra Costa confirmed it's alignment with the state's guidance\u003c/a> to extend this to unvaccinated people as of March 1.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>This means people no longer have to wear masks in indoor public spaces, although indoor masking will still be required for everyone — regardless of vaccination status — in health care settings, congregate settings like correctional facilities and homeless shelters, long-term care facilities, and K-12 schools and child care settings.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca id=\"marinmaskmandate\">\u003c/a>\u003cstrong>Marin\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>On June 2, following Alameda County's announcement of a renewed indoor mask mandate, Marin County officials told KQED that they don't have plans to reinstate a similar mask mandate at this time.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Marin lifted universal mask requirements for most indoor public settings in the county starting Feb. 16. Marin confirmed it's alignment with the state's guidance to extend this to unvaccinated people as of March 1.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>This means people no longer have to wear masks in indoor public spaces, although indoor masking will still be required for everyone — regardless of vaccination status — in health care settings, congregate settings like correctional facilities and homeless shelters, long-term care facilities, and K-12 schools and child care settings.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Unvaccinated individuals over age 2 will continue to be required to wear masks in all indoor public settings in Marin County.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca id=\"napamaskmandate\">\u003c/a>\u003cstrong>Napa\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Napa County has announced it will follow the state and lift universal mask requirements for most indoor public settings in the county starting Feb. 16.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>This means people no longer have to wear masks in indoor public spaces, although indoor masking will still be required for everyone — regardless of vaccination status — in health care settings, congregate settings like correctional facilities and homeless shelters, long-term care facilities, and K-12 schools and child care settings.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca id=\"sanmateomaskmandate\">\u003c/a>\u003cstrong>San Mateo\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>On June 2, following Alameda County's announcement of a renewed indoor mask mandate, San Mateo County officials told KQED that they don't have plans to reinstate a similar mask mandate at this time.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The county followed state guidance and lifted universal mask requirements for vaccinated people in most indoor public settings since Feb. 16, and extended that guidance to unvaccinated people as of March 1.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>This means people no longer have to wear masks in indoor public spaces, although indoor masking will still be required for everyone — regardless of vaccination status — in health care settings, congregate settings like correctional facilities and homeless shelters, long-term care facilities, and K-12 schools and child care settings.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad fullwidth]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca id=\"santaclaramaskmandate\">\u003c/a>\u003cstrong>Santa Clara\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>On June 2, following Alameda County's announcement of a renewed indoor mask mandate, Santa Clara County officials told KQED that they don't have plans to reinstate a similar mask mandate at this time.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Santa Clara County lifted its own mask rules on March 2, after a few weeks of being the only Bay Area county with an indoor mask mandate.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>County officials confirmed on March 1 that Santa Clara had achieved its three required metrics to end the mandate and to, instead, only recommend indoor mask usage. This rule change extended to unvaccinated people, who also are no longer required to wear masks indoors.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Indoor masking is still required for everyone — regardless of vaccination status — in health care settings, congregate settings like correctional facilities and homeless shelters, long-term care facilities and K-12 schools and child care settings.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>https://twitter.com/katewolffe/status/1496939963723616274\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca id=\"sonomamaskmandate\">\u003c/a>\u003cstrong>Sonoma\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Sonoma County followed state guidance and lifted universal mask requirements for most indoor public settings starting Feb. 16.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>This means vaccinated people no longer have to wear masks in indoor public spaces, although indoor masking will still be required for everyone — regardless of vaccination status — in health care settings, congregate settings like correctional facilities and homeless shelters, long-term care facilities, and K-12 schools and child care settings.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca id=\"solanomaskmandate\">\u003c/a>\u003cstrong>Solano\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Solano County followed state guidance and has lifted universal mask requirements for vaccinated people in most indoor public settings since Feb. 16, and extended that guidance to unvaccinated people as of March 1.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>This means people no longer have to wear masks in indoor public spaces, although indoor masking will still be required for everyone — regardless of vaccination status — in health care settings, congregate settings like correctional facilities and homeless shelters, long-term care facilities, and K-12 schools and child care settings.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>This post includes reporting from KQED's Kate Wolffe and Farida Jhabvala Romero. A version of this post was originally published on Dec. 29, 2021. KQED will update this post as new information becomes available.\u003c/em>\u003cbr>\n[ad fullwidth]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad floatright]\u003c/p>\n",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Update, 12 p.m. Tuesday, April 4, 2023:\u003c/strong> On April 3, California health officials announced that the state will no longer require face masks to be worn in health care facilities and other high-risk settings. Additionally, health care workers are no longer required to get the COVID-19 vaccine.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Individual counties still retain the authority to enforce their own additional public health restrictions separate from the state's. Some Bay Area counties, like Contra Costa and Alameda, will continue to require face masks in certain high-risk settings, like nursing facilities. \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11945498/as-california-drops-more-masking-rules-these-bay-area-counties-keep-theirs\">Check your county's new 2023 masking rules.\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Original story, June 2, 2022.\u003c/strong> Alameda County health officials announced Thursday that \u003ca href=\"https://twitter.com/Dare2BWell/status/1532461204907646978?s=20&t=HeuzAVeiuAqoJQz4RMc4zA\">face masks will once again be required in most indoor public settings\u003c/a> starting at 12:01 a.m. on Friday, regardless of vaccination status.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Alameda County lifted its mask mandate last February — but in a press release Thursday, health officials said COVID hospitalization rates have more than doubled in the last month, and that both hospitalizations and daily reported COVID cases now have exceeded their highest rates from last summer's delta variant surge.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\"We expect to reach CDC’s 'High' COVID-19 Community Level soon,\" \u003ca href=\"https://covid-19.acgov.org/covid19-assets/docs/press/press-release-2022.06.02.pdf\">officials said in the press release\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\"We cannot ignore the data, and we can’t predict when this wave may end,\" said Nicholas Moss, Alameda County health officer. \"Putting our masks back on gives us the best opportunity to limit the impact of a prolonged wave on our communities.\"\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Starting Friday, people in Alameda County will be required to wear a face mask in indoor businesses, restaurants and bars, government offices, bus and train stations, hospitals, and correctional centers and on public transportation. While this mandate will also include facilities that serve youth like indoor summer camps, it will not apply to K-12 schools.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Officials with San Francisco, San Mateo, Contra Costa, Santa Clara, Marin, Sonoma and Solano counties told KQED on Thursday that they do not have plans to reinstate an indoor mask mandate at this time. These counties loosened their mask rules earlier this year to align with state guidelines.\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Skip to: \u003ca href=\"#bayarea\">See the current mask mandates in your Bay Area county\u003c/a>\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>The state also announced that, \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11906730/california-relaxes-mask-mandate-in-schools-leaving-decision-to-local-districts\">starting March 12, masks would not be required in schools and child care facilities\u003c/a>, but were strongly recommended. Local communities can still determine their own rules on masking.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>On May 20, Berkeley Unified School District announced that \u003ca href=\"#alamedamaskmandate\">masks were once again required indoors at all BUSD schools\u003c/a> through the end of the 2021-2022 school year due to increased COVID transmission. \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11906730/california-relaxes-mask-mandate-in-schools-leaving-decision-to-local-districts\">Read more about kids masking in schools.\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Masks had also been required on public transit across the Bay Area, but on April 18, \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11911526/tsa-will-no-longer-enforce-travel-mask-mandate-after-federal-judge-strikes-it-down\">a federal judge in Florida ruled the federal travel mask mandate unlawful\u003c/a>. The Transportation Security Administration later announced it would no longer enforce mask rules inside airports and airplanes and on public transportation. Accordingly, \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11911549\">all Bay Area transit agencies dropped their own mask requirements\u003c/a> — except \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11911549#maskmandate\">BART, which reintroduced its own masking rules\u003c/a> starting on July 28. \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11911549\">Read more about mask rules on public transit.\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Everyone — regardless of vaccination status — will still need to wear a mask in health care settings and congregate settings like correctional facilities, homeless shelters and long-term care facilities.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>We'll continue to update this guide below with details for Bay Area counties as we confirm their decisions.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>What's the difference between California's mask mandate and my county's?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>Counties always have the ability to enact stricter mask rules than the state — so if your county had a mask mandate that’s more restrictive than state rules, that’s the one you had to follow.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>That's why when \u003ca href=\"#santaclaramaskmandate\">Santa Clara County officials announced they would keep more restrictive mask rules in place\u003c/a> after the state's mask mandate expired on Feb. 15, those who work, live and learn in that county still had to follow county rules, despite the statewide mandate ending.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>Now that \u003ca href=\"#santaclaramaskmandate\">Santa Clara County has announced it'll drop its mask mandate and align with the state,\u003c/a> starting March 2 most of the Bay Area will be aligned with the \u003ca href=\"https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CID/DCDC/Pages/COVID-19/guidance-for-face-coverings.aspx\">state's new masking guidance\u003c/a>. Both vaccinated and unvaccinated Californians may now take off their masks in most indoor public settings, including stores, restaurants, gyms and movie theaters.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>We’ll continue to closely monitor whether counties will further update their guidance.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Keep reading to find the county where you live, work or study for the latest masking rules, or use the links below — and bookmark this page for updates to mask mandates in the Bay Area.\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Skip to your Bay Area county:\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>\u003ca href=\"#alamedamaskmandate\">Alameda\u003c/a> | \u003ca href=\"#sanfranciscomaskmandate\">San Francisco\u003c/a> | \u003ca href=\"#contracostamaskmandate\">Contra Costa\u003c/a> | \u003ca href=\"#marinmaskmandate\">Marin\u003c/a> | \u003ca href=\"#napamaskmandate\">Napa\u003c/a> | \u003ca href=\"#sanmateomaskmandate\">San Mateo\u003c/a> | \u003ca href=\"#santaclaramaskmandate\">Santa Clara\u003c/a> | \u003ca href=\"#sonomamaskmandate\">Sonoma\u003c/a> | \u003ca href=\"#solanomaskmandate\">Solano\u003c/a>\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>\u003ca id=\"bayarea\">\u003c/a>Mask mandates in Bay Area counties\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>\u003ca id=\"alamedamaskmandate\">\u003c/a>\u003cstrong>Alameda\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>On Thursday, June 2, Alameda County health officials announced they were reinstating a mask mandate for most indoor public settings beginning on June 3, regardless of vaccination status.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The new \u003ca href=\"https://covid-19.acgov.org/covid19-assets/docs/hoo/22-02-face-coverings.pdf\">health order\u003c/a> does not apply to the city of Berkeley, which has its own public health department.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>This means both unvaccinated and vaccinated people are once again required to wear masks in most indoor public spaces, including businesses, restaurants and bars, government offices, public transportation, bus and train stations, hospitals and correctional centers.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>An existing indoor mask mandate remans in effect for health care settings, congregate settings like correctional facilities and homeless shelters, and long-term care facilities, and in K-12 schools and child care settings.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>An earlier indoor mask mandate at all schools that are part of Berkeley Unified School District began May 23. District officials \u003ca href=\"https://www.berkeleyschools.net/2022/05/new-public-health-guidance-from-the-city-of-berkeley-public-health-officer-reinstating-indoor-masking-nuevas-directrices-de-salud-publica-del-funcionario-de-salud-publica-del-gobierno-de-la-c/\">announced this change on May 20\u003c/a> and added that BUSD \" is experiencing an increase in the number of classroom clusters which indicate likely transmission in school.\"\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The mask mandate for BUSD schools will be in place until the end of the 2021-2022 school year.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca id=\"sanfranciscomaskmandate\">\u003c/a>\u003cstrong>San Francisco\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>On June 2, following Alameda County's announcement of a renewed indoor mask mandate, San Francisco officials told KQED that they don't have plans to reinstate a similar mask mandate at this time.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>As of Feb. 16, people who are up to date with their eligible COVID-19 vaccinations — \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11896107/pretty-much-everyone-can-now-get-a-covid-booster-shot-heres-how-to-find-one\">this includes booster shots if you currently qualify\u003c/a> — can take their masks off in indoor public spaces in San Francisco. \u003ca href=\"https://sf.gov/news/sf-aligns-state-recommend-not-require-masks-schools-and-child-care-settings\">Officials confirmed that San Francisco aligned with the state's guidance\u003c/a> to extend this to unvaccinated people as of March 1.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Indoor masking is still required for everyone — regardless of vaccination status — in health care settings, congregate settings like correctional facilities and homeless shelters, long-term care facilities, and in K-12 schools and child care settings.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca id=\"contracostamaskmandate\">\u003c/a>\u003cstrong>Contra Costa\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>On June 2, following Alameda County's announcement of a renewed indoor mask mandate, Contra Costa County officials told KQED that they don't have plans to reinstate a similar mask mandate at this time.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Contra Costa County lifted universal mask requirements for most indoor public settings in the county starting Feb. 16. \u003ca href=\"https://www.coronavirus.cchealth.org/\">Contra Costa confirmed it's alignment with the state's guidance\u003c/a> to extend this to unvaccinated people as of March 1.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>This means people no longer have to wear masks in indoor public spaces, although indoor masking will still be required for everyone — regardless of vaccination status — in health care settings, congregate settings like correctional facilities and homeless shelters, long-term care facilities, and K-12 schools and child care settings.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca id=\"marinmaskmandate\">\u003c/a>\u003cstrong>Marin\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>On June 2, following Alameda County's announcement of a renewed indoor mask mandate, Marin County officials told KQED that they don't have plans to reinstate a similar mask mandate at this time.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Marin lifted universal mask requirements for most indoor public settings in the county starting Feb. 16. Marin confirmed it's alignment with the state's guidance to extend this to unvaccinated people as of March 1.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>This means people no longer have to wear masks in indoor public spaces, although indoor masking will still be required for everyone — regardless of vaccination status — in health care settings, congregate settings like correctional facilities and homeless shelters, long-term care facilities, and K-12 schools and child care settings.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Unvaccinated individuals over age 2 will continue to be required to wear masks in all indoor public settings in Marin County.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca id=\"napamaskmandate\">\u003c/a>\u003cstrong>Napa\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Napa County has announced it will follow the state and lift universal mask requirements for most indoor public settings in the county starting Feb. 16.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>This means people no longer have to wear masks in indoor public spaces, although indoor masking will still be required for everyone — regardless of vaccination status — in health care settings, congregate settings like correctional facilities and homeless shelters, long-term care facilities, and K-12 schools and child care settings.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca id=\"sanmateomaskmandate\">\u003c/a>\u003cstrong>San Mateo\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>On June 2, following Alameda County's announcement of a renewed indoor mask mandate, San Mateo County officials told KQED that they don't have plans to reinstate a similar mask mandate at this time.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The county followed state guidance and lifted universal mask requirements for vaccinated people in most indoor public settings since Feb. 16, and extended that guidance to unvaccinated people as of March 1.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>This means people no longer have to wear masks in indoor public spaces, although indoor masking will still be required for everyone — regardless of vaccination status — in health care settings, congregate settings like correctional facilities and homeless shelters, long-term care facilities, and K-12 schools and child care settings.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca id=\"santaclaramaskmandate\">\u003c/a>\u003cstrong>Santa Clara\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>On June 2, following Alameda County's announcement of a renewed indoor mask mandate, Santa Clara County officials told KQED that they don't have plans to reinstate a similar mask mandate at this time.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Santa Clara County lifted its own mask rules on March 2, after a few weeks of being the only Bay Area county with an indoor mask mandate.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>County officials confirmed on March 1 that Santa Clara had achieved its three required metrics to end the mandate and to, instead, only recommend indoor mask usage. This rule change extended to unvaccinated people, who also are no longer required to wear masks indoors.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Indoor masking is still required for everyone — regardless of vaccination status — in health care settings, congregate settings like correctional facilities and homeless shelters, long-term care facilities and K-12 schools and child care settings.\u003c/p>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\n\u003cp>\u003ca id=\"sonomamaskmandate\">\u003c/a>\u003cstrong>Sonoma\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Sonoma County followed state guidance and lifted universal mask requirements for most indoor public settings starting Feb. 16.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>This means vaccinated people no longer have to wear masks in indoor public spaces, although indoor masking will still be required for everyone — regardless of vaccination status — in health care settings, congregate settings like correctional facilities and homeless shelters, long-term care facilities, and K-12 schools and child care settings.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca id=\"solanomaskmandate\">\u003c/a>\u003cstrong>Solano\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Solano County followed state guidance and has lifted universal mask requirements for vaccinated people in most indoor public settings since Feb. 16, and extended that guidance to unvaccinated people as of March 1.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>This means people no longer have to wear masks in indoor public spaces, although indoor masking will still be required for everyone — regardless of vaccination status — in health care settings, congregate settings like correctional facilities and homeless shelters, long-term care facilities, and K-12 schools and child care settings.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>This post includes reporting from KQED's Kate Wolffe and Farida Jhabvala Romero. A version of this post was originally published on Dec. 29, 2021. KQED will update this post as new information becomes available.\u003c/em>\u003cbr>\n\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"slug": "if-you-get-covid-should-you-try-to-get-paxlovid-heres-how-with-or-without-health-insurance",
"title": "How to Get Paxlovid if You Have COVID — With or Without Health Insurance",
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"headTitle": "How to Get Paxlovid if You Have COVID — With or Without Health Insurance | KQED",
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"content": "\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Update, Nov. 15, 2023: \u003c/strong>Starting Nov. 12, there are some \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11966797/paxlovid-free-eligibility-california-2023\">changes to how the drug Paxlovid is funded and paid for by insurers\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>People with health insurance should now make sure they are requesting and filling their prescription “in-network” to avoid any unexpected bills. People without health insurance can still use \u003ca href=\"https://sesamecare.com/covidca\">Sesame Care, California’s COVID telehealth service\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Read our latest \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11966797/paxlovid-free-eligibility-california-2023\">guide to why the cost of Paxlovid has changed and how to ensure your Paxlovid prescription remains free\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>Original story:\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you test positive for COVID, you may be eligible to start a COVID antiviral treatment like Paxlovid.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Paxlovid is available free by prescription in California, and treatment is taking a pill orally twice a day, for five days. This antiviral medication has been proven to be highly effective at reducing severe disease and hospitalization from COVID, and there’s now evidence it can help reduce the risks of long COVID, too.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But if you test positive for COVID, what are the practical steps to finding a prescription for Paxlovid near you? Who exactly is eligible for Paxlovid now? And what is “Paxlovid rebound”?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Keep reading for everything you need to know about getting Paxlovid in the Bay Area. Alternatively, use these links to jump straight to the answer you’re looking for:\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>How to find Paxlovid near you:\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>\u003ca href=\"#noinsurance\">How to get a Paxlovid prescription (no insurance)\u003c/a>\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>\u003ca href=\"#insurance\">How to get a Paxlovid prescription (with insurance)\u003c/a>\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Key facts about Paxlovid:\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>\u003ca href=\"#how\">How do antiviral treatments work?\u003c/a>\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>\u003ca href=\"#eligible\">Am I eligible for Paxlovid?\u003c/a>\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>\u003ca href=\"#rebound\">What do we know about “Paxlovid rebound”?\u003c/a>\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003ch2>\u003ca id=\"how\">\u003c/a>What is Paxlovid, and should I take it?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>How Paxlovid works\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Paxlovid (pronounced “PAX-loh-vid” or “Pax-LOH-vid”) is a highly effective antiviral treatment for COVID, available by prescription for people at higher risk from the disease. The treatment lasts five days, via a pill taken orally twice a day. \u003ca href=\"#eligible\">Learn exactly who qualifies for Paxlovid.\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/treatments-for-severe-illness.html\">Antiviral medications like Paxlovid work by stopping viruses from multiplying in the body. \u003c/a>Studies by Paxlovid’s manufacturer, Pfizer, show that in unvaccinated people at serious risk of COVID complications, \u003ca href=\"https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2022/05/11/1097698090/3-ways-to-get-covid-pills-if-youve-just-tested-positive\">Paxlovid was nearly 90% effective at reducing the risk of hospitalization or death from COVID\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Paxlovid “attacks the virus in a mechanism that’s different than your immune system,” explains Dr. Bob Wachter, professor and chair of the department of medicine at UCSF. This is particularly beneficial for immunosuppressed people whose immune systems didn’t produce a good response after they got their COVID vaccine — because “the Paxlovid should still work fine.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>While Pfizer’s Paxlovid has become a more well-known COVID antiviral drug recently, a provider may suggest another medication for you: molnupiravir, which is only available to people age 18 and over. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s data has shown that \u003ca href=\"https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2022/02/22/1081898013/doctors-find-limited-use-for-less-effective-covid-pill\">molnupiravir is a much less effective drug than Paxlovid\u003c/a>, but \u003ca href=\"https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2022/02/22/1081898013/doctors-find-limited-use-for-less-effective-covid-pill\">doctors may still prescribe it in place of Paxlovid for several reasons\u003c/a> (including the risk of Paxlovid’s interactions with other medications you’re taking).[aside label=\"More COVID explainers\" tag=\"coronavirus-resources-and-explainers\"]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>(There are also monoclonal antibody treatments, which differ from antiviral medications. Monoclonal antibody treatments are suitable for certain people at higher risk from severe illness from COVID, and are given as a single IV injection. \u003ca href=\"https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/treatments-for-severe-illness.html\">See the CDC’s full list of treatments available for COVID patients.\u003c/a>)\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>How Paxlovid could reduce your risk of long COVID\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>In late 2022, the United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) released the results of \u003ca href=\"https://www.va.gov/opa/pressrel/pressrelease.cfm?id=5837\">a study that showed that COVID patients within the VA population who took Paxlovid within five days of their positive test had “a 25% decreased risk of developing 10 of 12 different long COVID conditions studied”\u003c/a> — which include fatigue, neurocognitive impairment, muscle pain, shortness of breath and liver, heart and kidney disease.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Dr. Peter Chin-Hong, infectious disease expert at UCSF, says that he thinks the possible benefit of Paxlovid on long COVID could even exceed the findings of the VA study. The “biologic reason” for that, he says, is rooted in why people get long COVID in the first place. In the simplest terms, “it’s when the virus gets in the bloodstream, and your immune system gets super angry and whacked out,” he explains. “So things that kick the virus \u003cem>out\u003c/em> of the bloodstream earlier would therefore potentially lead to a lower probability of long COVID.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Wachter echoed Chin-Hong’s sentiments recently, telling \u003cem>The San Francisco Chronicle\u003c/em> that \u003ca href=\"https://www.sfchronicle.com/health/article/pfizer-paxlovid-long-covid-17816217.php\">while the VA study isn’t huge, it still shows Paxlovid can make “a meaningful difference” in the fight against long COVID\u003c/a>. That’s one of the reasons he himself would take Paxlovid if he had COVID, said Wachter.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_11915706\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\" style=\"max-width: 1920px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-11915706\" src=\"https://ww2.kqed.org/app/uploads/sites/10/2022/06/RS56315_GettyImages-1387450680-qut.jpg\" alt='A box of the COVID antiviral drug Paxlovid, placed on a shiny wooden table. The box says \"PAXLOVID 150 mg + 100 mg film-coated tablets\". ' width=\"1920\" height=\"1280\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/06/RS56315_GettyImages-1387450680-qut.jpg 1920w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/06/RS56315_GettyImages-1387450680-qut-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/06/RS56315_GettyImages-1387450680-qut-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/06/RS56315_GettyImages-1387450680-qut-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/06/RS56315_GettyImages-1387450680-qut-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">A box of the COVID antiviral drug Paxlovid. \u003ccite>(EUROPA PRESS/C.Lujan.POOL via Getty Images)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003ch2>\u003ca id=\"eligible\">\u003c/a>Who qualifies for Paxlovid or other COVID antiviral treatments?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>In short: A \u003cem>lot\u003c/em> more people are now eligible for Paxlovid.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>After \u003ca href=\"https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/coronavirus-covid-19-update-fda-authorizes-first-oral-antiviral-treatment-covid-19\">Paxlovid became the first oral antiviral treatment for COVID\u003c/a> authorized by the FDA in Dec. 2021, limited supply meant that \u003ca href=\"https://health.ucdavis.edu/news/headlines/pfizers-new-covid-antiviral-pill-paxlovid-now-available-for-limited-use/2022/01\">the drug was initially only used to treat the patients deemed most at risk\u003c/a> from severe illness from COVID, which the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said included \u003ca href=\"https://www.cdc.gov/aging/covid19/covid19-older-adults.html\">people over 65 \u003c/a>and immunocompromised people.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But now, in 2023, the FDA says that \u003ca href=\"https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/know-your-treatment-options-covid-19\">all patients with “mild to moderate COVID-19 who are at high risk of disease progression”\u003c/a> should be eligible for Paxlovid. And in the last few months, \u003ca href=\"https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/OPA/Pages/CAHAN/Reminder-to-Prescribe-COVID-19-Therapeutics-to-Mitigate-Impact-of-Winter-Respiratory-Surge.aspx\">California officials have gone even further to expand access to Paxlovid\u003c/a>, reminding providers of the “ample supply” and urging that “all symptomatic patients with a positive COVID-19 test of any type should be evaluated for treatments\u003cstrong class=\"ms-rteStyle-TextBoldStyle\">.”\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>All of this means that, as a patient, when it comes to Paxlovid: Assume you could be eligible until you’re told otherwise, and seek out that prescription, urges UCSF’s Chin-Hong.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“People aren’t great about determining whether or not they’re the highest risk or not” says Chin-Hong. “I think the assumption [should be], you qualify.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>You may also not be familiar with all the conditions that put a person at higher risk for COVID: For example, \u003ca href=\"https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/need-extra-precautions/people-with-medical-conditions.html\">the CDC’s list of possible risk factors includes mental health conditions and mood disorders\u003c/a> like depression, and lists being a current or former smoker.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>What else do I need to know about Paxlovid and COVID antiviral treatments?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>You can’t mix Paxlovid with certain other medications\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“You need to make sure your doctor or the pharmacist who’s helping you understands the other drugs you’re on, because you may need to change the doses,” notes Wachter. “You may even need to stop some of them for five days.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>This is the reason it’s really important to be clear about any other medications you’re taking when you speak to a health care provider about getting Paxlovid or another COVID antiviral: Mixing them could be dangerous to your health. If you’re taking medications that would interact badly with Pfizer’s Paxlovid, a provider may prescribe you another COVID antiviral — Merck’s molnupiravir — instead.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_11909889\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\" style=\"max-width: 2560px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-11909889\" src=\"https://ww2.kqed.org/app/uploads/sites/10/2022/03/gettyimages-1239245283-17cffb6eec48649d7f7d32a186d471e0213b6ffa-scaled.jpg\" alt='A woman with black hair and dark brown skin, wearing a black skirt and bright pink sweater walks across a stone plaza in the background. In the foreground is a blue sign saying \"No Cost To You\" COVID-19 Testing. A pink swirl wraps around the words: No Cost To You.' width=\"2560\" height=\"1920\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/03/gettyimages-1239245283-17cffb6eec48649d7f7d32a186d471e0213b6ffa-scaled.jpg 2560w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/03/gettyimages-1239245283-17cffb6eec48649d7f7d32a186d471e0213b6ffa-800x600.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/03/gettyimages-1239245283-17cffb6eec48649d7f7d32a186d471e0213b6ffa-1020x765.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/03/gettyimages-1239245283-17cffb6eec48649d7f7d32a186d471e0213b6ffa-160x120.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/03/gettyimages-1239245283-17cffb6eec48649d7f7d32a186d471e0213b6ffa-1536x1152.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/03/gettyimages-1239245283-17cffb6eec48649d7f7d32a186d471e0213b6ffa-2048x1536.jpg 2048w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/03/gettyimages-1239245283-17cffb6eec48649d7f7d32a186d471e0213b6ffa-1920x1440.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 2560px) 100vw, 2560px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">A person walks past a COVID-19 testing location in Arlington, Virginia, on March 16, 2021. \u003ccite>(Stefani Reynolds/AFP via Getty Images)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Paxlovid and other COVID antivirals have to be taken within the first five days after you test positive\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Be clear with any provider you speak with about how long ago you tested positive.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you’ve tested positive heading into a weekend, or on the weekend itself, remember that some treatment locations may be closed at this time.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>You no longer need a positive test to get a prescription\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Previously, if you wanted to get a prescription for Paxlovid, you’d need to provide proof of a positive COVID test.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But as of Feb. 1, \u003ca href=\"https://www.fda.gov/media/155049/download\">you no longer need to provide this positive test to get a Paxlovid prescription\u003c/a>, removing another obstacle between you and a potential course of this antiviral treatment.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Your closest pharmacy may not have supplies of Paxlovid\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Paxlovid supply can vary, and if you \u003ca href=\"#insurance\">obtain a prescription for Paxlovid \u003c/a>and ask for it to be filled at your closest pharmacy or the pharmacy you regularly use, you may find that this location does not in fact have any current supply. In that case, your provider could ask you to call other nearby pharmacy locations yourself, to check whether \u003cem>they\u003c/em> have supply.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca id=\"rebound\">\u003c/a>\u003cstrong>The ‘Paxlovid rebound’ is a thing\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>In a nutshell, \u003ca href=\"https://emergency.cdc.gov/han/2022/han00467.asp\">the “Paxlovid rebound”\u003c/a> is when someone tests positive for COVID and takes Paxlovid, and tests negative on an antigen test for COVID after several days — but then redevelops their COVID symptoms and tests positive \u003cem>again\u003c/em> on an antigen test after that. Wachter says that in these cases, the negative test comes on average on Day 7 or 8 of a COVID infection, and the positive “rebound” test and return of symptoms happens around Day 11 or 12. He says rebound infections “tend to be mild,” albeit lasting roughly five to seven days, and you should assume you’re infectious again if you test positive that second time.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But Chin-Hong stresses that you shouldn’t let fear of the “Paxlovid rebound” dissuade you from seeking out Paxlovid when you might greatly benefit from it, because people can sometimes “rebound” with COVID anyway — even \u003cem>without\u003c/em> taking Paxlovid.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Chin-Hong says he’s “seen so many studies now” at this stage of the pandemic that show swabs of COVID patients both with and without Paxlovid with “very similar rates of the virus coming back, with and without symptoms.” In short, “we don’t have any evidence at this point that Paxlovid causes more rebound than natural infection, when you study people systematically,” says Chin-Hong.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Many people report Paxlovid has a strong metallic taste\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Paxlovid is highly effective at preventing hospitalization and death from COVID, and “the side effect profile is very, very mild,” says Wachter — but “about 1 in 20 people in the clinical trials were reported to have a metallic taste in their mouth.” Or, as \u003cem>The Atlantic\u003c/em> puts it, “\u003ca href=\"https://www.theatlantic.com/health/archive/2022/05/pfizer-paxlovid-covid-pill-side-effects/629772/\">it might make your mouth taste like absolute garbage\u003c/a> the whole time you’re taking the pills.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Don’t be shocked if you’re one of the percentage of people who report an “altered sense of taste” from taking Paxlovid, which is temporary.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>\u003ca id=\"noinsurance\">\u003c/a>How to get Paxlovid without health insurance\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>What to know before you begin, if you’re uninsured\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The state says that\u003ca href=\"https://covid19.ca.gov/treatment/#treatment-facts\"> “COVID-19 medications are free in California” and you “don’t need to have insurance or be a U.S. citizen”\u003c/a> to receive them. But if you’re uninsured, finding a Paxlovid prescription can still feel complex — and you could potentially still be navigating hidden costs.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Make sure you have a list of any medications you’re currently taking on hand, as COVID antiviral drugs can have dangerous interactions with other drugs.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Throughout the process, be clear with the provider about any symptoms you’re experiencing, and make sure they know how long ago you tested positive, since Paxlovid and other antiviral drugs must be taken within five days of a positive test.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>You’ll be asked about your personal health circumstances, to determine your eligibility for Paxlovid. Be aware that a host of conditions and circumstances could qualify you as having higher risk of severe illness or complications from COVID, and therefore make you a good candidate for Paxlovid. Before talking with a provider, consider briefly familiarizing yourself with \u003ca href=\"https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/need-extra-precautions/people-with-medical-conditions.html\">the CDC’s list of possible risk factors \u003c/a>— which includes mental health conditions and mood disorders like depression, the amount of physical activity you get and being a current or former smoker — so you’re prepared to answer their questions.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_11903823\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\" style=\"max-width: 1920px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-11903823\" src=\"https://ww2.kqed.org/app/uploads/sites/10/2022/02/RS53459_006_StockPhoto_AtHomeCOVIDTest_02022022-qut.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1920\" height=\"1280\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/02/RS53459_006_StockPhoto_AtHomeCOVIDTest_02022022-qut.jpg 1920w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/02/RS53459_006_StockPhoto_AtHomeCOVIDTest_02022022-qut-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/02/RS53459_006_StockPhoto_AtHomeCOVIDTest_02022022-qut-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/02/RS53459_006_StockPhoto_AtHomeCOVIDTest_02022022-qut-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/02/RS53459_006_StockPhoto_AtHomeCOVIDTest_02022022-qut-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">A hand holds an at-home COVID-19 test. \u003ccite>(Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Also, since you may not be seeing a regular provider, keep reminding any representative or health care professional you talk with, either in person or on the phone, that you \u003cem>don’t have health insurance\u003c/em> and get them to confirm you won’t be asked to pay out-of-pocket costs when you’re being evaluated, when you’re being offered a prescription or when you’re filling a prescription. This may help avoid nasty surprises later down the line.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Also, be very clear with whomever you speak that you don’t necessarily know where to fill any prescription for Paxlovid that you receive. Ask repeatedly, if necessary, where the provider recommends you fill that prescription locally — since that could end up being the hard part.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Paxlovid supply can vary, and if you \u003ca href=\"#insurance\">obtain a prescription for Paxlovid \u003c/a>and ask for it to be filled at your closest pharmacy, or the pharmacy you regularly use, you may find that this location does not in fact have any current Paxlovid supply to give you. In that case, your provider could ask you to call other nearby pharmacy locations yourself, to check if \u003cem>they\u003c/em> have supply. If this happens, you may find that sometimes the only way to be able to speak directly to a pharmacist when you call a location’s phone number is to select the option for prescribers or doctors.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you live in San Francisco or Contra Costa County, your county is providing additional assistance on finding COVID treatments like Paxlovid, especially if you’re uninsured. Jump to \u003ca href=\"#SFCC\">information for uninsured San Francisco or Contra Costa County residents\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>1. Use Sesame Care, the state’s official telehealth service\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you don’t have health insurance and want Paxlovid, the California Department of Health advises that you use \u003ca href=\"https://sesamecare.com/covidca\">Sesame Care, California’s COVID-19 telehealth service\u003c/a>. (Previously, the state’s COVID care services were provided by Optum Serve.)\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The California Department of Public Health says it’s providing this free service “to support uninsured and underinsured individuals within the State of California who cannot connect with a healthcare provider within 24 hours of receiving a positive test result.” Even though you technically no longer require proof of a positive COVID test to receive a Paxlovid prescription, Sesame Care asks that you only request an appointment if you have a positive COVID test \u003cem>and\u003c/em> symptoms of COVID.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Visit \u003ca href=\"https://sesamecare.com/covid\">sesamecare.com/covid\u003c/a> to make a free phone or video appointment through Sesame Care, or alternatively call (833) 686-5051 (6 a.m. to 4 p.m PT, seven days a week). When you speak to a provider through Sesame Care, they’ll prescribe you Paxlovid “if appropriate,” and it will either be mailed to you or made available at a pharmacy near you.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>This Sesame Care consultation and the Paxlovid prescription should be free. Sesame Care’s site says that if you are asked to pay for any of these services, you should call Sesame Care at (888) 897-1244 so they “can follow up with the pharmacy.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Be careful only to use Sesame Care’s free COVID care webpage at \u003ca href=\"https://sesamecare.com/covid\">sesamecare.com/covid\u003c/a> and not click away to other parts of Sesame Care’s website. Sesame warns that if you enter Sesame Care’s regular website, you’ll be charged for its services.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>2. \u003c/strong>\u003cstrong>Visit a CVS pharmacy (but be aware of the consultation cost)\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.cvs.com/content/coronavirus?icid=coronavirus-lp-treatment-services#services\">CVS pharmacies offer a range of testing and treatment options for COVID\u003c/a>, where you can get a prescription for Paxlovid without insurance — but you’ll have to pay a $60 consultation fee out of pocket.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>To start the process to be prescribed Paxlovid, you can \u003ca href=\"https://www.cvs.com/content/covid-antiviral?icid=coronavirus-lp-treatment-paxlovid\">complete the online screening\u003c/a>, which will then prompt you to schedule a call with a CVS pharmacist.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Please be aware that there are \u003ca href=\"https://www.cvs.com/content/covid-antiviral#determine-eligibility\">several key things to know about getting Paxlovid through a CVS pharmacist\u003c/a>:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>You will be charged $60 for a consultation with a CVS pharmacist, which you can pay by cash.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>You will be charged this $60 fee\u003cem> even if the CVS pharmacist does not prescribe you Paxlovid. \u003c/em>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>You must have had blood work completed within the last 12 months, including blood work that looks at your liver and kidney function, for the CVS pharmacist to refer to in order to prescribe you Paxlovid.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>You must not have kidney or liver disease.\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>If you are ineligible for Paxlovid because of any of these factors, remember that CVS will still charge you $60 for the consultation, and you’ll still have to find a Paxlovid prescription somewhere else.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca id=\"SFCC\">\u003c/a>\u003cstrong>3. Live in San Francisco or Contra Costa County? Your county is offering special assistance on COVID treatment\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>San Francisco residents can call the San Francisco Health Network for treatment, and to learn who’s eligible for Healthy San Francisco and Medi-Cal, at (415) 682-1740. \u003ca href=\"https://sf.gov/get-treated-covid-19\">Read more about getting COVID treatment in San Francisco\u003c/a>, especially if you’re uninsured.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Contra Costa County residents can call the Contra Costa Health Services Advice Nurse line for a potential referral to a doctor at (877) 661-6230. \u003ca href=\"https://www.coronavirus.cchealth.org/treatments\">Read more about getting COVID treatment in Contra Costa County\u003c/a>, especially if you’re uninsured.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>4. Contact a community health center near you\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Use the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ \u003ca href=\"https://findahealthcenter.hrsa.gov/\">Find a Health Center map\u003c/a> to see community health centers near you, and get their contact details.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Contact a nearby health center to ask about your options for COVID treatment and getting a Paxlovid prescription without insurance.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad fullwidth]\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>\u003ca id=\"insurance\">\u003c/a>How to get Paxlovid if you have health insurance\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>What to know before you begin\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Make sure you have the following on hand:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>A list of any medications you’re currently taking, as COVID antiviral drugs can have dangerous interactions with other drugs.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Your insurance details.\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>Be clear with the provider about any symptoms you’re experiencing, and make sure they know how long ago you tested positive, since Paxlovid and other antiviral drugs must be taken within five days of a positive test.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>You’ll be asked about your personal health circumstances, to determine your eligibility for Paxlovid. Be aware that a host of conditions and circumstances could qualify you as having higher risk of severe illness or complications from COVID, and therefore make you a good candidate for Paxlovid. Before talking with a provider, consider briefly familiarizing yourself with \u003ca href=\"https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/need-extra-precautions/people-with-medical-conditions.html\">the CDC’s list of possible risk factors \u003c/a>— which includes mental health conditions and mood disorders like depression, the amount of physical activity you get and being a current or former smoker — so you’re prepared to answer their questions.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_11902230\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\" style=\"max-width: 1920px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-11902230\" src=\"https://ww2.kqed.org/app/uploads/sites/10/2022/01/RS46108_016_KQED_SanFrancisco_COVIDTesting_11302020-qut.jpg\" alt=\"A nurse in full PPE prepares to swab man wearing a mask facing away from camera, outside in sunlight\" width=\"1920\" height=\"1280\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/01/RS46108_016_KQED_SanFrancisco_COVIDTesting_11302020-qut.jpg 1920w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/01/RS46108_016_KQED_SanFrancisco_COVIDTesting_11302020-qut-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/01/RS46108_016_KQED_SanFrancisco_COVIDTesting_11302020-qut-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/01/RS46108_016_KQED_SanFrancisco_COVIDTesting_11302020-qut-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/01/RS46108_016_KQED_SanFrancisco_COVIDTesting_11302020-qut-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Health care worker Olga Duran tests a patient for COVID at a Unidos en Salud testing site on 24th and Mission streets in San Francisco on Nov. 30, 2020. Unidos en Salud (United in Health) is a collaboration between UCSF and the Latino Task Force to help vulnerable populations through COVID-19. \u003ccite>(Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Also, be very clear with whomever you speak that you don’t necessarily know where to fill any prescription for Paxlovid that you receive. Ask repeatedly, if necessary, where the provider recommends you fill that prescription locally — since that could end up being the hard part.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Paxlovid supply can vary, and if you \u003ca href=\"#insurance\">obtain a prescription for Paxlovid \u003c/a>and ask for it to be filled at your closest pharmacy or the pharmacy you regularly use, you may find that this location does not in fact have any current supply. In that case, your provider could ask you to call other nearby pharmacy locations yourself, to check whether \u003cem>they\u003c/em> have supply. If this happens, you may find that the only way to speak directly to a pharmacist is to select the option for prescribers or doctors.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you have insurance, be aware that if you ask for a Paxlovid prescription to be sent to a pharmacy that turns out not to have any, you’ll likely have to cancel the order at that pharmacy before another location can fill it for you. That’s because if you don’t, your insurance will think you’re trying to fill the prescription again.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>1. Call your health care provider to get your prescription\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you have health insurance, the first thing you should do is contact your health care provider — or, if you’re able to, your regular primary care provider.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Tell your health care provider that you’ve tested positive for COVID, and that you’re interested in Paxlovid or another COVID antiviral drug. Having access to your health care records, your provider will be able to judge whether you’re eligible for these drugs, and weigh your risk factors with your symptoms.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Tell your provider about any other medications you’re taking, as COVID antiviral drugs can have dangerous interactions with other drugs. Be clear with your provider about any symptoms you’re experiencing, and make sure they know how long ago you tested positive, since Paxlovid and other antiviral drugs must be taken within five days of a positive test.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If your provider believes you should receive Paxlovid or another COVID antiviral drug, they will give you a prescription, which you can then go fill at a location in the Bay Area that has supplies of that drug available.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Ask your provider whether they’re able to assist you in finding a location to fill your prescription — some providers may make calls to local pharmacies and suppliers on your behalf. You can also try using the \u003ca href=\"https://covid-19-test-to-treat-locator-dhhs.hub.arcgis.com/\">Test to Treat site locator map\u003c/a> to find locations that are filling Paxlovid prescriptions: Input your location, then look for the “Locations to fill a prescription” section.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>2. Find a Test to Treat site \u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If making contact with your regular health care provider is proving difficult, you could try a Test to Treat site.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Test to Treat sites are places where you can get tested for COVID and potentially treated for it by being prescribed COVID antivirals on-site. Some Test to Treat sites also have supplies of COVID antivirals on-site, meaning you could (in theory) walk away from a Test to Treat site having been tested for COVID, evaluated for eligibility for COVID antivirals, prescribed the right treatment(s) and handed your medications.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://covid-19-test-to-treat-locator-dhhs.hub.arcgis.com/\">See a list of Test to Treat sites near you on the state of California’s map tool. \u003c/a>When you input your city or ZIP code into \u003ca href=\"https://covid-19-test-to-treat-locator-dhhs.hub.arcgis.com/\">the Test to Treat locator map\u003c/a>, you’ll be able to see:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>Test to Treat sites themselves, i.e., locations that offer testing, medical visits and medication.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Places where you can fill an existing prescription for COVID treatment that you’ve obtained elsewhere (these locations \u003cem>aren’t \u003c/em>Test to Treat sites).\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>If you have health insurance, you can visit any Test to Treat site near you. You can call the Test to Treat call center at (800) 232-0233 (TTY 888-720-7489) — \u003ca href=\"https://aspr.hhs.gov/TestToTreat/Pages/default.aspx\">assistance is available 5 a.m. to 5 p.m. PT Monday–Friday, and 5 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday–Sunday, in English, Spanish and more than 150 other languages\u003c/a>. The Disability Information and Access Line (DIAL) is also available to help people with disabilities access services: (888) 677-1199, Monday–Friday, 6 a.m.–5 p.m. PT, or email DIAL@usaginganddisability.org.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If the Test to Treat site you’ve visited doesn’t have supplies of the antiviral drug they’ve prescribed you, ask for staff’s assistance and advice on where you should then go to refill that prescription.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_11901091\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\" style=\"max-width: 2560px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-11901091\" src=\"https://ww2.kqed.org/app/uploads/sites/10/2022/01/GettyImages-1237588762-scaled.jpg\" alt='Several small boxes are stacked next to each other on a counter, each one has the same design and label, which read, \"COVID-19 Antigen Home Test.\"' width=\"2560\" height=\"1706\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/01/GettyImages-1237588762-scaled.jpg 2560w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/01/GettyImages-1237588762-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/01/GettyImages-1237588762-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/01/GettyImages-1237588762-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/01/GettyImages-1237588762-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/01/GettyImages-1237588762-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/01/GettyImages-1237588762-1920x1280.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 2560px) 100vw, 2560px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Rapid COVID-19 test kits await distribution at Union Station in Los Angeles on Jan. 7, 2022. \u003ccite>(Frederic J. Brown/AFP via Getty Images)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>3. Use Sesame Care, the state’s official telehealth service\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://sesamecare.com/covidca\">Sesame Care\u003c/a>‘s COVID services are provided in collaboration with the California Department of Public Health to support people without insurance — but it’s also available to you if you have insurance but are having difficulty connecting with their health care provider within 24 hours of getting a positive COVID test.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Even though you technically no longer require proof of a positive COVID test to receive a Paxlovid prescription, Sesame Care asks that you only request an appointment if you have a positive COVID test \u003cem>and\u003c/em> symptoms of COVID.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Visit \u003ca href=\"https://sesamecare.com/covid\">sesamecare.com/covid\u003c/a> to make a free phone or video appointment through Sesame Care, or alternatively call (833) 686-5051 (6 a.m. to 4 p.m PT, seven days a week). When you speak to a provider through Sesame Care, they’ll prescribe you Paxlovid “if appropriate,” which will either be mailed to you or made available at a pharmacy near you.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>This Sesame Care consultation and the Paxlovid prescription should be free. Sesame Care’s site says that if you are asked to pay for any of these services, you should call Sesame Care at (888) 897-1244 so that they “can follow up with the pharmacy.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Be careful only to use Sesame Care’s free COVID care webpage at \u003ca href=\"https://sesamecare.com/covid\">sesamecare.com/covid\u003c/a> and not click away to other parts of Sesame Care’s website. Sesame warns that if you enter Sesame Care’s regular website, you’ll be charged for its services.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>4. Visit a CVS pharmacy (but be aware of the potential cost)\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.cvs.com/content/coronavirus?icid=coronavirus-lp-treatment-services#services\">CVS pharmacies offer a range of testing and treatment options for COVID. \u003c/a>To start the process to be prescribed Paxlovid, you can \u003ca href=\"https://www.cvs.com/content/covid-antiviral?icid=coronavirus-lp-treatment-paxlovid\">complete the online screening\u003c/a>, which will then prompt you to schedule a call with a CVS pharmacist.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Please be aware that there are \u003ca href=\"https://www.cvs.com/content/covid-antiviral#determine-eligibility\">several key things to know about getting Paxlovid through a CVS pharmacist\u003c/a> that will complicate this process:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli style=\"list-style-type: none\">\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>You will be charged $60 for a consultation with a CVS pharmacist, which you can pay by cash or out of your health savings account (HSA) or with your flexible spending account (FSA) card. Your insurance \u003cem>may\u003c/em> cover this cost, but it’s not guaranteed.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>You will be charged this $60 fee\u003cem> even if the CVS pharmacist does not prescribe you Paxlovid. \u003c/em>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>You can’t get Paxlovid through CVS if you are using Medicare or Medicaid, which CVS says is due to federal regulations.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>You must have had blood work completed within the last 12 months, including blood work that looks at your liver and kidney function, for the CVS pharmacist to refer to in order to prescribe you Paxlovid.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>You must not have kidney or liver disease.\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>If you are ineligible for Paxlovid because of any of these factors, remember that CVS will still charge you $60 for the consultation, and you’ll still have to find a Paxlovid prescription somewhere else.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad floatright]\u003c/p>\n",
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"excerpt": "How does the COVID antiviral drug Paxlovid work? Who qualifies for a prescription? What's 'Paxlovid rebound'? How can you find treatment near you? All your Paxlovid questions answered.",
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"title": "How to Get Paxlovid if You Have COVID — With or Without Health Insurance | KQED",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Update, Nov. 15, 2023: \u003c/strong>Starting Nov. 12, there are some \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11966797/paxlovid-free-eligibility-california-2023\">changes to how the drug Paxlovid is funded and paid for by insurers\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>People with health insurance should now make sure they are requesting and filling their prescription “in-network” to avoid any unexpected bills. People without health insurance can still use \u003ca href=\"https://sesamecare.com/covidca\">Sesame Care, California’s COVID telehealth service\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Read our latest \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11966797/paxlovid-free-eligibility-california-2023\">guide to why the cost of Paxlovid has changed and how to ensure your Paxlovid prescription remains free\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>Original story:\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you test positive for COVID, you may be eligible to start a COVID antiviral treatment like Paxlovid.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Paxlovid is available free by prescription in California, and treatment is taking a pill orally twice a day, for five days. This antiviral medication has been proven to be highly effective at reducing severe disease and hospitalization from COVID, and there’s now evidence it can help reduce the risks of long COVID, too.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But if you test positive for COVID, what are the practical steps to finding a prescription for Paxlovid near you? Who exactly is eligible for Paxlovid now? And what is “Paxlovid rebound”?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Keep reading for everything you need to know about getting Paxlovid in the Bay Area. Alternatively, use these links to jump straight to the answer you’re looking for:\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>How to find Paxlovid near you:\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>\u003ca href=\"#noinsurance\">How to get a Paxlovid prescription (no insurance)\u003c/a>\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>\u003ca href=\"#insurance\">How to get a Paxlovid prescription (with insurance)\u003c/a>\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Key facts about Paxlovid:\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>\u003ca href=\"#how\">How do antiviral treatments work?\u003c/a>\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>\u003ca href=\"#eligible\">Am I eligible for Paxlovid?\u003c/a>\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>\u003ca href=\"#rebound\">What do we know about “Paxlovid rebound”?\u003c/a>\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003ch2>\u003ca id=\"how\">\u003c/a>What is Paxlovid, and should I take it?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>How Paxlovid works\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Paxlovid (pronounced “PAX-loh-vid” or “Pax-LOH-vid”) is a highly effective antiviral treatment for COVID, available by prescription for people at higher risk from the disease. The treatment lasts five days, via a pill taken orally twice a day. \u003ca href=\"#eligible\">Learn exactly who qualifies for Paxlovid.\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/treatments-for-severe-illness.html\">Antiviral medications like Paxlovid work by stopping viruses from multiplying in the body. \u003c/a>Studies by Paxlovid’s manufacturer, Pfizer, show that in unvaccinated people at serious risk of COVID complications, \u003ca href=\"https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2022/05/11/1097698090/3-ways-to-get-covid-pills-if-youve-just-tested-positive\">Paxlovid was nearly 90% effective at reducing the risk of hospitalization or death from COVID\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Paxlovid “attacks the virus in a mechanism that’s different than your immune system,” explains Dr. Bob Wachter, professor and chair of the department of medicine at UCSF. This is particularly beneficial for immunosuppressed people whose immune systems didn’t produce a good response after they got their COVID vaccine — because “the Paxlovid should still work fine.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>While Pfizer’s Paxlovid has become a more well-known COVID antiviral drug recently, a provider may suggest another medication for you: molnupiravir, which is only available to people age 18 and over. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s data has shown that \u003ca href=\"https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2022/02/22/1081898013/doctors-find-limited-use-for-less-effective-covid-pill\">molnupiravir is a much less effective drug than Paxlovid\u003c/a>, but \u003ca href=\"https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2022/02/22/1081898013/doctors-find-limited-use-for-less-effective-covid-pill\">doctors may still prescribe it in place of Paxlovid for several reasons\u003c/a> (including the risk of Paxlovid’s interactions with other medications you’re taking).\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>(There are also monoclonal antibody treatments, which differ from antiviral medications. Monoclonal antibody treatments are suitable for certain people at higher risk from severe illness from COVID, and are given as a single IV injection. \u003ca href=\"https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/treatments-for-severe-illness.html\">See the CDC’s full list of treatments available for COVID patients.\u003c/a>)\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>How Paxlovid could reduce your risk of long COVID\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>In late 2022, the United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) released the results of \u003ca href=\"https://www.va.gov/opa/pressrel/pressrelease.cfm?id=5837\">a study that showed that COVID patients within the VA population who took Paxlovid within five days of their positive test had “a 25% decreased risk of developing 10 of 12 different long COVID conditions studied”\u003c/a> — which include fatigue, neurocognitive impairment, muscle pain, shortness of breath and liver, heart and kidney disease.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Dr. Peter Chin-Hong, infectious disease expert at UCSF, says that he thinks the possible benefit of Paxlovid on long COVID could even exceed the findings of the VA study. The “biologic reason” for that, he says, is rooted in why people get long COVID in the first place. In the simplest terms, “it’s when the virus gets in the bloodstream, and your immune system gets super angry and whacked out,” he explains. “So things that kick the virus \u003cem>out\u003c/em> of the bloodstream earlier would therefore potentially lead to a lower probability of long COVID.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Wachter echoed Chin-Hong’s sentiments recently, telling \u003cem>The San Francisco Chronicle\u003c/em> that \u003ca href=\"https://www.sfchronicle.com/health/article/pfizer-paxlovid-long-covid-17816217.php\">while the VA study isn’t huge, it still shows Paxlovid can make “a meaningful difference” in the fight against long COVID\u003c/a>. That’s one of the reasons he himself would take Paxlovid if he had COVID, said Wachter.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_11915706\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\" style=\"max-width: 1920px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-11915706\" src=\"https://ww2.kqed.org/app/uploads/sites/10/2022/06/RS56315_GettyImages-1387450680-qut.jpg\" alt='A box of the COVID antiviral drug Paxlovid, placed on a shiny wooden table. The box says \"PAXLOVID 150 mg + 100 mg film-coated tablets\". ' width=\"1920\" height=\"1280\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/06/RS56315_GettyImages-1387450680-qut.jpg 1920w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/06/RS56315_GettyImages-1387450680-qut-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/06/RS56315_GettyImages-1387450680-qut-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/06/RS56315_GettyImages-1387450680-qut-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/06/RS56315_GettyImages-1387450680-qut-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">A box of the COVID antiviral drug Paxlovid. \u003ccite>(EUROPA PRESS/C.Lujan.POOL via Getty Images)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003ch2>\u003ca id=\"eligible\">\u003c/a>Who qualifies for Paxlovid or other COVID antiviral treatments?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>In short: A \u003cem>lot\u003c/em> more people are now eligible for Paxlovid.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>After \u003ca href=\"https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/coronavirus-covid-19-update-fda-authorizes-first-oral-antiviral-treatment-covid-19\">Paxlovid became the first oral antiviral treatment for COVID\u003c/a> authorized by the FDA in Dec. 2021, limited supply meant that \u003ca href=\"https://health.ucdavis.edu/news/headlines/pfizers-new-covid-antiviral-pill-paxlovid-now-available-for-limited-use/2022/01\">the drug was initially only used to treat the patients deemed most at risk\u003c/a> from severe illness from COVID, which the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said included \u003ca href=\"https://www.cdc.gov/aging/covid19/covid19-older-adults.html\">people over 65 \u003c/a>and immunocompromised people.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But now, in 2023, the FDA says that \u003ca href=\"https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/know-your-treatment-options-covid-19\">all patients with “mild to moderate COVID-19 who are at high risk of disease progression”\u003c/a> should be eligible for Paxlovid. And in the last few months, \u003ca href=\"https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/OPA/Pages/CAHAN/Reminder-to-Prescribe-COVID-19-Therapeutics-to-Mitigate-Impact-of-Winter-Respiratory-Surge.aspx\">California officials have gone even further to expand access to Paxlovid\u003c/a>, reminding providers of the “ample supply” and urging that “all symptomatic patients with a positive COVID-19 test of any type should be evaluated for treatments\u003cstrong class=\"ms-rteStyle-TextBoldStyle\">.”\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>All of this means that, as a patient, when it comes to Paxlovid: Assume you could be eligible until you’re told otherwise, and seek out that prescription, urges UCSF’s Chin-Hong.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“People aren’t great about determining whether or not they’re the highest risk or not” says Chin-Hong. “I think the assumption [should be], you qualify.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>You may also not be familiar with all the conditions that put a person at higher risk for COVID: For example, \u003ca href=\"https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/need-extra-precautions/people-with-medical-conditions.html\">the CDC’s list of possible risk factors includes mental health conditions and mood disorders\u003c/a> like depression, and lists being a current or former smoker.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>What else do I need to know about Paxlovid and COVID antiviral treatments?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>You can’t mix Paxlovid with certain other medications\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“You need to make sure your doctor or the pharmacist who’s helping you understands the other drugs you’re on, because you may need to change the doses,” notes Wachter. “You may even need to stop some of them for five days.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>This is the reason it’s really important to be clear about any other medications you’re taking when you speak to a health care provider about getting Paxlovid or another COVID antiviral: Mixing them could be dangerous to your health. If you’re taking medications that would interact badly with Pfizer’s Paxlovid, a provider may prescribe you another COVID antiviral — Merck’s molnupiravir — instead.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_11909889\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\" style=\"max-width: 2560px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-11909889\" src=\"https://ww2.kqed.org/app/uploads/sites/10/2022/03/gettyimages-1239245283-17cffb6eec48649d7f7d32a186d471e0213b6ffa-scaled.jpg\" alt='A woman with black hair and dark brown skin, wearing a black skirt and bright pink sweater walks across a stone plaza in the background. In the foreground is a blue sign saying \"No Cost To You\" COVID-19 Testing. A pink swirl wraps around the words: No Cost To You.' width=\"2560\" height=\"1920\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/03/gettyimages-1239245283-17cffb6eec48649d7f7d32a186d471e0213b6ffa-scaled.jpg 2560w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/03/gettyimages-1239245283-17cffb6eec48649d7f7d32a186d471e0213b6ffa-800x600.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/03/gettyimages-1239245283-17cffb6eec48649d7f7d32a186d471e0213b6ffa-1020x765.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/03/gettyimages-1239245283-17cffb6eec48649d7f7d32a186d471e0213b6ffa-160x120.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/03/gettyimages-1239245283-17cffb6eec48649d7f7d32a186d471e0213b6ffa-1536x1152.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/03/gettyimages-1239245283-17cffb6eec48649d7f7d32a186d471e0213b6ffa-2048x1536.jpg 2048w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/03/gettyimages-1239245283-17cffb6eec48649d7f7d32a186d471e0213b6ffa-1920x1440.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 2560px) 100vw, 2560px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">A person walks past a COVID-19 testing location in Arlington, Virginia, on March 16, 2021. \u003ccite>(Stefani Reynolds/AFP via Getty Images)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Paxlovid and other COVID antivirals have to be taken within the first five days after you test positive\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Be clear with any provider you speak with about how long ago you tested positive.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you’ve tested positive heading into a weekend, or on the weekend itself, remember that some treatment locations may be closed at this time.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>You no longer need a positive test to get a prescription\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Previously, if you wanted to get a prescription for Paxlovid, you’d need to provide proof of a positive COVID test.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But as of Feb. 1, \u003ca href=\"https://www.fda.gov/media/155049/download\">you no longer need to provide this positive test to get a Paxlovid prescription\u003c/a>, removing another obstacle between you and a potential course of this antiviral treatment.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Your closest pharmacy may not have supplies of Paxlovid\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Paxlovid supply can vary, and if you \u003ca href=\"#insurance\">obtain a prescription for Paxlovid \u003c/a>and ask for it to be filled at your closest pharmacy or the pharmacy you regularly use, you may find that this location does not in fact have any current supply. In that case, your provider could ask you to call other nearby pharmacy locations yourself, to check whether \u003cem>they\u003c/em> have supply.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca id=\"rebound\">\u003c/a>\u003cstrong>The ‘Paxlovid rebound’ is a thing\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>In a nutshell, \u003ca href=\"https://emergency.cdc.gov/han/2022/han00467.asp\">the “Paxlovid rebound”\u003c/a> is when someone tests positive for COVID and takes Paxlovid, and tests negative on an antigen test for COVID after several days — but then redevelops their COVID symptoms and tests positive \u003cem>again\u003c/em> on an antigen test after that. Wachter says that in these cases, the negative test comes on average on Day 7 or 8 of a COVID infection, and the positive “rebound” test and return of symptoms happens around Day 11 or 12. He says rebound infections “tend to be mild,” albeit lasting roughly five to seven days, and you should assume you’re infectious again if you test positive that second time.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But Chin-Hong stresses that you shouldn’t let fear of the “Paxlovid rebound” dissuade you from seeking out Paxlovid when you might greatly benefit from it, because people can sometimes “rebound” with COVID anyway — even \u003cem>without\u003c/em> taking Paxlovid.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Chin-Hong says he’s “seen so many studies now” at this stage of the pandemic that show swabs of COVID patients both with and without Paxlovid with “very similar rates of the virus coming back, with and without symptoms.” In short, “we don’t have any evidence at this point that Paxlovid causes more rebound than natural infection, when you study people systematically,” says Chin-Hong.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Many people report Paxlovid has a strong metallic taste\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Paxlovid is highly effective at preventing hospitalization and death from COVID, and “the side effect profile is very, very mild,” says Wachter — but “about 1 in 20 people in the clinical trials were reported to have a metallic taste in their mouth.” Or, as \u003cem>The Atlantic\u003c/em> puts it, “\u003ca href=\"https://www.theatlantic.com/health/archive/2022/05/pfizer-paxlovid-covid-pill-side-effects/629772/\">it might make your mouth taste like absolute garbage\u003c/a> the whole time you’re taking the pills.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Don’t be shocked if you’re one of the percentage of people who report an “altered sense of taste” from taking Paxlovid, which is temporary.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>\u003ca id=\"noinsurance\">\u003c/a>How to get Paxlovid without health insurance\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>What to know before you begin, if you’re uninsured\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The state says that\u003ca href=\"https://covid19.ca.gov/treatment/#treatment-facts\"> “COVID-19 medications are free in California” and you “don’t need to have insurance or be a U.S. citizen”\u003c/a> to receive them. But if you’re uninsured, finding a Paxlovid prescription can still feel complex — and you could potentially still be navigating hidden costs.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Make sure you have a list of any medications you’re currently taking on hand, as COVID antiviral drugs can have dangerous interactions with other drugs.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Throughout the process, be clear with the provider about any symptoms you’re experiencing, and make sure they know how long ago you tested positive, since Paxlovid and other antiviral drugs must be taken within five days of a positive test.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>You’ll be asked about your personal health circumstances, to determine your eligibility for Paxlovid. Be aware that a host of conditions and circumstances could qualify you as having higher risk of severe illness or complications from COVID, and therefore make you a good candidate for Paxlovid. Before talking with a provider, consider briefly familiarizing yourself with \u003ca href=\"https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/need-extra-precautions/people-with-medical-conditions.html\">the CDC’s list of possible risk factors \u003c/a>— which includes mental health conditions and mood disorders like depression, the amount of physical activity you get and being a current or former smoker — so you’re prepared to answer their questions.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_11903823\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\" style=\"max-width: 1920px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-11903823\" src=\"https://ww2.kqed.org/app/uploads/sites/10/2022/02/RS53459_006_StockPhoto_AtHomeCOVIDTest_02022022-qut.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1920\" height=\"1280\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/02/RS53459_006_StockPhoto_AtHomeCOVIDTest_02022022-qut.jpg 1920w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/02/RS53459_006_StockPhoto_AtHomeCOVIDTest_02022022-qut-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/02/RS53459_006_StockPhoto_AtHomeCOVIDTest_02022022-qut-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/02/RS53459_006_StockPhoto_AtHomeCOVIDTest_02022022-qut-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/02/RS53459_006_StockPhoto_AtHomeCOVIDTest_02022022-qut-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">A hand holds an at-home COVID-19 test. \u003ccite>(Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Also, since you may not be seeing a regular provider, keep reminding any representative or health care professional you talk with, either in person or on the phone, that you \u003cem>don’t have health insurance\u003c/em> and get them to confirm you won’t be asked to pay out-of-pocket costs when you’re being evaluated, when you’re being offered a prescription or when you’re filling a prescription. This may help avoid nasty surprises later down the line.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Also, be very clear with whomever you speak that you don’t necessarily know where to fill any prescription for Paxlovid that you receive. Ask repeatedly, if necessary, where the provider recommends you fill that prescription locally — since that could end up being the hard part.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Paxlovid supply can vary, and if you \u003ca href=\"#insurance\">obtain a prescription for Paxlovid \u003c/a>and ask for it to be filled at your closest pharmacy, or the pharmacy you regularly use, you may find that this location does not in fact have any current Paxlovid supply to give you. In that case, your provider could ask you to call other nearby pharmacy locations yourself, to check if \u003cem>they\u003c/em> have supply. If this happens, you may find that sometimes the only way to be able to speak directly to a pharmacist when you call a location’s phone number is to select the option for prescribers or doctors.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you live in San Francisco or Contra Costa County, your county is providing additional assistance on finding COVID treatments like Paxlovid, especially if you’re uninsured. Jump to \u003ca href=\"#SFCC\">information for uninsured San Francisco or Contra Costa County residents\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>1. Use Sesame Care, the state’s official telehealth service\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you don’t have health insurance and want Paxlovid, the California Department of Health advises that you use \u003ca href=\"https://sesamecare.com/covidca\">Sesame Care, California’s COVID-19 telehealth service\u003c/a>. (Previously, the state’s COVID care services were provided by Optum Serve.)\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The California Department of Public Health says it’s providing this free service “to support uninsured and underinsured individuals within the State of California who cannot connect with a healthcare provider within 24 hours of receiving a positive test result.” Even though you technically no longer require proof of a positive COVID test to receive a Paxlovid prescription, Sesame Care asks that you only request an appointment if you have a positive COVID test \u003cem>and\u003c/em> symptoms of COVID.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Visit \u003ca href=\"https://sesamecare.com/covid\">sesamecare.com/covid\u003c/a> to make a free phone or video appointment through Sesame Care, or alternatively call (833) 686-5051 (6 a.m. to 4 p.m PT, seven days a week). When you speak to a provider through Sesame Care, they’ll prescribe you Paxlovid “if appropriate,” and it will either be mailed to you or made available at a pharmacy near you.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>This Sesame Care consultation and the Paxlovid prescription should be free. Sesame Care’s site says that if you are asked to pay for any of these services, you should call Sesame Care at (888) 897-1244 so they “can follow up with the pharmacy.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Be careful only to use Sesame Care’s free COVID care webpage at \u003ca href=\"https://sesamecare.com/covid\">sesamecare.com/covid\u003c/a> and not click away to other parts of Sesame Care’s website. Sesame warns that if you enter Sesame Care’s regular website, you’ll be charged for its services.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>2. \u003c/strong>\u003cstrong>Visit a CVS pharmacy (but be aware of the consultation cost)\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.cvs.com/content/coronavirus?icid=coronavirus-lp-treatment-services#services\">CVS pharmacies offer a range of testing and treatment options for COVID\u003c/a>, where you can get a prescription for Paxlovid without insurance — but you’ll have to pay a $60 consultation fee out of pocket.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>To start the process to be prescribed Paxlovid, you can \u003ca href=\"https://www.cvs.com/content/covid-antiviral?icid=coronavirus-lp-treatment-paxlovid\">complete the online screening\u003c/a>, which will then prompt you to schedule a call with a CVS pharmacist.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Please be aware that there are \u003ca href=\"https://www.cvs.com/content/covid-antiviral#determine-eligibility\">several key things to know about getting Paxlovid through a CVS pharmacist\u003c/a>:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>You will be charged $60 for a consultation with a CVS pharmacist, which you can pay by cash.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>You will be charged this $60 fee\u003cem> even if the CVS pharmacist does not prescribe you Paxlovid. \u003c/em>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>You must have had blood work completed within the last 12 months, including blood work that looks at your liver and kidney function, for the CVS pharmacist to refer to in order to prescribe you Paxlovid.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>You must not have kidney or liver disease.\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>If you are ineligible for Paxlovid because of any of these factors, remember that CVS will still charge you $60 for the consultation, and you’ll still have to find a Paxlovid prescription somewhere else.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca id=\"SFCC\">\u003c/a>\u003cstrong>3. Live in San Francisco or Contra Costa County? Your county is offering special assistance on COVID treatment\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>San Francisco residents can call the San Francisco Health Network for treatment, and to learn who’s eligible for Healthy San Francisco and Medi-Cal, at (415) 682-1740. \u003ca href=\"https://sf.gov/get-treated-covid-19\">Read more about getting COVID treatment in San Francisco\u003c/a>, especially if you’re uninsured.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Contra Costa County residents can call the Contra Costa Health Services Advice Nurse line for a potential referral to a doctor at (877) 661-6230. \u003ca href=\"https://www.coronavirus.cchealth.org/treatments\">Read more about getting COVID treatment in Contra Costa County\u003c/a>, especially if you’re uninsured.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>4. Contact a community health center near you\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Use the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ \u003ca href=\"https://findahealthcenter.hrsa.gov/\">Find a Health Center map\u003c/a> to see community health centers near you, and get their contact details.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Contact a nearby health center to ask about your options for COVID treatment and getting a Paxlovid prescription without insurance.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>\u003ca id=\"insurance\">\u003c/a>How to get Paxlovid if you have health insurance\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>What to know before you begin\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Make sure you have the following on hand:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>A list of any medications you’re currently taking, as COVID antiviral drugs can have dangerous interactions with other drugs.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Your insurance details.\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>Be clear with the provider about any symptoms you’re experiencing, and make sure they know how long ago you tested positive, since Paxlovid and other antiviral drugs must be taken within five days of a positive test.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>You’ll be asked about your personal health circumstances, to determine your eligibility for Paxlovid. Be aware that a host of conditions and circumstances could qualify you as having higher risk of severe illness or complications from COVID, and therefore make you a good candidate for Paxlovid. Before talking with a provider, consider briefly familiarizing yourself with \u003ca href=\"https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/need-extra-precautions/people-with-medical-conditions.html\">the CDC’s list of possible risk factors \u003c/a>— which includes mental health conditions and mood disorders like depression, the amount of physical activity you get and being a current or former smoker — so you’re prepared to answer their questions.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_11902230\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\" style=\"max-width: 1920px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-11902230\" src=\"https://ww2.kqed.org/app/uploads/sites/10/2022/01/RS46108_016_KQED_SanFrancisco_COVIDTesting_11302020-qut.jpg\" alt=\"A nurse in full PPE prepares to swab man wearing a mask facing away from camera, outside in sunlight\" width=\"1920\" height=\"1280\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/01/RS46108_016_KQED_SanFrancisco_COVIDTesting_11302020-qut.jpg 1920w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/01/RS46108_016_KQED_SanFrancisco_COVIDTesting_11302020-qut-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/01/RS46108_016_KQED_SanFrancisco_COVIDTesting_11302020-qut-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/01/RS46108_016_KQED_SanFrancisco_COVIDTesting_11302020-qut-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/01/RS46108_016_KQED_SanFrancisco_COVIDTesting_11302020-qut-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Health care worker Olga Duran tests a patient for COVID at a Unidos en Salud testing site on 24th and Mission streets in San Francisco on Nov. 30, 2020. Unidos en Salud (United in Health) is a collaboration between UCSF and the Latino Task Force to help vulnerable populations through COVID-19. \u003ccite>(Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Also, be very clear with whomever you speak that you don’t necessarily know where to fill any prescription for Paxlovid that you receive. Ask repeatedly, if necessary, where the provider recommends you fill that prescription locally — since that could end up being the hard part.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Paxlovid supply can vary, and if you \u003ca href=\"#insurance\">obtain a prescription for Paxlovid \u003c/a>and ask for it to be filled at your closest pharmacy or the pharmacy you regularly use, you may find that this location does not in fact have any current supply. In that case, your provider could ask you to call other nearby pharmacy locations yourself, to check whether \u003cem>they\u003c/em> have supply. If this happens, you may find that the only way to speak directly to a pharmacist is to select the option for prescribers or doctors.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you have insurance, be aware that if you ask for a Paxlovid prescription to be sent to a pharmacy that turns out not to have any, you’ll likely have to cancel the order at that pharmacy before another location can fill it for you. That’s because if you don’t, your insurance will think you’re trying to fill the prescription again.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>1. Call your health care provider to get your prescription\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you have health insurance, the first thing you should do is contact your health care provider — or, if you’re able to, your regular primary care provider.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Tell your health care provider that you’ve tested positive for COVID, and that you’re interested in Paxlovid or another COVID antiviral drug. Having access to your health care records, your provider will be able to judge whether you’re eligible for these drugs, and weigh your risk factors with your symptoms.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Tell your provider about any other medications you’re taking, as COVID antiviral drugs can have dangerous interactions with other drugs. Be clear with your provider about any symptoms you’re experiencing, and make sure they know how long ago you tested positive, since Paxlovid and other antiviral drugs must be taken within five days of a positive test.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If your provider believes you should receive Paxlovid or another COVID antiviral drug, they will give you a prescription, which you can then go fill at a location in the Bay Area that has supplies of that drug available.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Ask your provider whether they’re able to assist you in finding a location to fill your prescription — some providers may make calls to local pharmacies and suppliers on your behalf. You can also try using the \u003ca href=\"https://covid-19-test-to-treat-locator-dhhs.hub.arcgis.com/\">Test to Treat site locator map\u003c/a> to find locations that are filling Paxlovid prescriptions: Input your location, then look for the “Locations to fill a prescription” section.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>2. Find a Test to Treat site \u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If making contact with your regular health care provider is proving difficult, you could try a Test to Treat site.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Test to Treat sites are places where you can get tested for COVID and potentially treated for it by being prescribed COVID antivirals on-site. Some Test to Treat sites also have supplies of COVID antivirals on-site, meaning you could (in theory) walk away from a Test to Treat site having been tested for COVID, evaluated for eligibility for COVID antivirals, prescribed the right treatment(s) and handed your medications.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://covid-19-test-to-treat-locator-dhhs.hub.arcgis.com/\">See a list of Test to Treat sites near you on the state of California’s map tool. \u003c/a>When you input your city or ZIP code into \u003ca href=\"https://covid-19-test-to-treat-locator-dhhs.hub.arcgis.com/\">the Test to Treat locator map\u003c/a>, you’ll be able to see:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>Test to Treat sites themselves, i.e., locations that offer testing, medical visits and medication.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Places where you can fill an existing prescription for COVID treatment that you’ve obtained elsewhere (these locations \u003cem>aren’t \u003c/em>Test to Treat sites).\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>If you have health insurance, you can visit any Test to Treat site near you. You can call the Test to Treat call center at (800) 232-0233 (TTY 888-720-7489) — \u003ca href=\"https://aspr.hhs.gov/TestToTreat/Pages/default.aspx\">assistance is available 5 a.m. to 5 p.m. PT Monday–Friday, and 5 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday–Sunday, in English, Spanish and more than 150 other languages\u003c/a>. The Disability Information and Access Line (DIAL) is also available to help people with disabilities access services: (888) 677-1199, Monday–Friday, 6 a.m.–5 p.m. PT, or email DIAL@usaginganddisability.org.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If the Test to Treat site you’ve visited doesn’t have supplies of the antiviral drug they’ve prescribed you, ask for staff’s assistance and advice on where you should then go to refill that prescription.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_11901091\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\" style=\"max-width: 2560px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-11901091\" src=\"https://ww2.kqed.org/app/uploads/sites/10/2022/01/GettyImages-1237588762-scaled.jpg\" alt='Several small boxes are stacked next to each other on a counter, each one has the same design and label, which read, \"COVID-19 Antigen Home Test.\"' width=\"2560\" height=\"1706\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/01/GettyImages-1237588762-scaled.jpg 2560w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/01/GettyImages-1237588762-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/01/GettyImages-1237588762-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/01/GettyImages-1237588762-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/01/GettyImages-1237588762-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/01/GettyImages-1237588762-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/01/GettyImages-1237588762-1920x1280.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 2560px) 100vw, 2560px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Rapid COVID-19 test kits await distribution at Union Station in Los Angeles on Jan. 7, 2022. \u003ccite>(Frederic J. Brown/AFP via Getty Images)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>3. Use Sesame Care, the state’s official telehealth service\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://sesamecare.com/covidca\">Sesame Care\u003c/a>‘s COVID services are provided in collaboration with the California Department of Public Health to support people without insurance — but it’s also available to you if you have insurance but are having difficulty connecting with their health care provider within 24 hours of getting a positive COVID test.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Even though you technically no longer require proof of a positive COVID test to receive a Paxlovid prescription, Sesame Care asks that you only request an appointment if you have a positive COVID test \u003cem>and\u003c/em> symptoms of COVID.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Visit \u003ca href=\"https://sesamecare.com/covid\">sesamecare.com/covid\u003c/a> to make a free phone or video appointment through Sesame Care, or alternatively call (833) 686-5051 (6 a.m. to 4 p.m PT, seven days a week). When you speak to a provider through Sesame Care, they’ll prescribe you Paxlovid “if appropriate,” which will either be mailed to you or made available at a pharmacy near you.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>This Sesame Care consultation and the Paxlovid prescription should be free. Sesame Care’s site says that if you are asked to pay for any of these services, you should call Sesame Care at (888) 897-1244 so that they “can follow up with the pharmacy.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Be careful only to use Sesame Care’s free COVID care webpage at \u003ca href=\"https://sesamecare.com/covid\">sesamecare.com/covid\u003c/a> and not click away to other parts of Sesame Care’s website. Sesame warns that if you enter Sesame Care’s regular website, you’ll be charged for its services.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>4. Visit a CVS pharmacy (but be aware of the potential cost)\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.cvs.com/content/coronavirus?icid=coronavirus-lp-treatment-services#services\">CVS pharmacies offer a range of testing and treatment options for COVID. \u003c/a>To start the process to be prescribed Paxlovid, you can \u003ca href=\"https://www.cvs.com/content/covid-antiviral?icid=coronavirus-lp-treatment-paxlovid\">complete the online screening\u003c/a>, which will then prompt you to schedule a call with a CVS pharmacist.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Please be aware that there are \u003ca href=\"https://www.cvs.com/content/covid-antiviral#determine-eligibility\">several key things to know about getting Paxlovid through a CVS pharmacist\u003c/a> that will complicate this process:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli style=\"list-style-type: none\">\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>You will be charged $60 for a consultation with a CVS pharmacist, which you can pay by cash or out of your health savings account (HSA) or with your flexible spending account (FSA) card. Your insurance \u003cem>may\u003c/em> cover this cost, but it’s not guaranteed.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>You will be charged this $60 fee\u003cem> even if the CVS pharmacist does not prescribe you Paxlovid. \u003c/em>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>You can’t get Paxlovid through CVS if you are using Medicare or Medicaid, which CVS says is due to federal regulations.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>You must have had blood work completed within the last 12 months, including blood work that looks at your liver and kidney function, for the CVS pharmacist to refer to in order to prescribe you Paxlovid.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>You must not have kidney or liver disease.\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>If you are ineligible for Paxlovid because of any of these factors, remember that CVS will still charge you $60 for the consultation, and you’ll still have to find a Paxlovid prescription somewhere else.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"title": "Where to Find a COVID Test Near You in the Bay Area",
"headTitle": "Where to Find a COVID Test Near You in the Bay Area | KQED",
"content": "\u003cp>\u003cem>Updated 8:45 p.m., Tuesday, May 24.\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Skip to:\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>\u003ca href=\"#locations\">Where can I find a COVID test near me?\u003c/a>\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>\u003ca href=\"#timing\">How soon after possible exposure should I get tested?\u003c/a>\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>\u003ca href=\"#covidhometests\">How can I get free at-home COVID test kits?\u003c/a>\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://covid19.ca.gov/vaccination-progress-data/\">Over 75% of Californians are now fully vaccinated\u003c/a>, and over 58% have received their COVID booster shot.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But widespread breakthrough infections in fully vaccinated people and \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11914110/bay-area-health-officials-urge-residents-to-mask-up-again-and-be-vigilant-as-covid-cases-rise\">the recent rise in COVID case numbers around the Bay Area\u003c/a> are a reminder that COVID testing remains crucial to ending this pandemic.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Health experts stress that getting tested for COVID, even when fully vaccinated, is an effective way to stop the spread of the coronavirus faster. But what if you’re struggling to find a timely COVID test in the Bay Area — especially when you need the results as soon as possible — or accessing a free appointment?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Keep reading for how to find a COVID test near you, and your options depending on your reason for getting tested.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>One big thing to know: Finding a test if you’re uninsured became a little more complex a few months ago. In late March, \u003ca href=\"https://www.hrsa.gov/coviduninsuredclaim/submission-deadline\">the federal program that’s been funding COVID testing and care for people without health insurance ended \u003c/a>— and in several cases, testing sites that previously offered free COVID tests to people without insurance stopped doing so. This means that if you’re uninsured, unfortunately it’s now \u003cem>extra\u003c/em> important to check that the testing site you want to use still offers free tests for those without insurance.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The good news is that \u003ca href=\"#locations\">your local county testing site\u003c/a> most likely will not be affected by that federal funding change, and still will be able to offer you a free test without insurance. Uninsured people have other free testing options, too: Look for the asterisks (\u003cstrong>*)\u003c/strong> in our \u003ca href=\"#locations\">list of COVID testing providers around the Bay Area \u003c/a>to find them.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>\u003ca id=\"locations\">\u003c/a>Where to find a COVID PCR test in the Bay Area\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>If you’re looking for COVID-19 testing in the Bay Area, you have several options — and for many testing sites, you still don’t need health insurance.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Unless otherwise noted, testing sites use nasal or oral swabs to determine whether you have the virus — not an antibody (serology) blood-based test to determine whether you’ve been exposed.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Most sites require appointments, and test results should be available within three days. If you need results sooner, be sure to select a rapid test.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>Don’t have health insurance? Look out for the asterisks (*) below for the testing options most likely to be free for uninsured people.\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Find a COVID test through your health care provider\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you have health insurance and get health care through a regular provider, such as Kaiser Permanente, you may find it easiest to get a COVID test through that provider.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Log into your provider’s website or app and look for COVID testing options to make an appointment.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>You may find that certain providers offer testing to nonmembers. For example, \u003ca href=\"https://www.sutterhealth.org/find-location/facility/cpmc-covid-testing\">Sutter Health’s California Pacific Medical Center says it can schedule tests for nonmembers\u003c/a> as long as they have an order for the test from their physician.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_11903823\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\" style=\"max-width: 1920px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-11903823\" src=\"https://ww2.kqed.org/app/uploads/sites/10/2022/02/RS53459_006_StockPhoto_AtHomeCOVIDTest_02022022-qut.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1920\" height=\"1280\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/02/RS53459_006_StockPhoto_AtHomeCOVIDTest_02022022-qut.jpg 1920w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/02/RS53459_006_StockPhoto_AtHomeCOVIDTest_02022022-qut-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/02/RS53459_006_StockPhoto_AtHomeCOVIDTest_02022022-qut-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/02/RS53459_006_StockPhoto_AtHomeCOVIDTest_02022022-qut-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/02/RS53459_006_StockPhoto_AtHomeCOVIDTest_02022022-qut-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">A hand holds an at-home COVID-19 test. \u003ccite>(Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Find a COVID test through the state’s map*\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>For a complete list of COVID testing providers throughout California, use \u003ca href=\"https://myturn.ca.gov/testing.html\">the state’s map that says it shows all public and private COVID testing providers\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The state says that free testing is “available at select clinics” using this tool, and recommends you look for the word “free” next to the clinic’s name.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Find a COVID test through Test to Treat*\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>As the name “Test to Treat” implies, these locations allow you to get tested for COVID and potentially treated for it by being prescribed COVID antivirals on-site. \u003ca href=\"https://covid-19-test-to-treat-locator-dhhs.hub.arcgis.com/\">See a list of Test to Treat sites near you on the State of California’s map tool.\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>When you input your city or ZIP code in \u003ca href=\"https://covid-19-test-to-treat-locator-dhhs.hub.arcgis.com/\">the Test to Treat locator map\u003c/a>, look under “Locations with testing, medical visits, and medication (Test-to-Treat)” to find a testing location, not “Locations to fill a prescription.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The state says that services at Optum Serve Test to Treat sites are free to uninsured people. (This refers to those Test to Treat sites run by Optum Serve, which is the federal health services business of Optum and UnitedHealth Group.) If you’re uninsured and you visit a \u003ca href=\"https://covid-19-test-to-treat-locator-dhhs.hub.arcgis.com/\">Test to Treat location\u003c/a> that isn’t run by Optum Serve, you could potentially find yourself asked to pay costs out of pocket.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you’re uninsured and using \u003ca href=\"https://covid-19-test-to-treat-locator-dhhs.hub.arcgis.com/\">the Test to Treat locator map \u003c/a>to find a site, make sure you look specifically for the locations that say “Optum Serve.” You can also \u003ca href=\"https://lhi.care/covidtesting\">find only Optum Serve testing locations using the Optum Serve map online\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Find a COVID test through a pharmacy*\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Spokespeople for CVS and Walgreens have confirmed that as of May 2022, COVID testing at their stores is still free for people without insurance.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Still, be extra-sure to check the billing details when making an appointment for a COVID test, especially if you’re uninsured.\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.cvs.com/minuteclinic/covid-19-testing\">CVS COVID testing\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.walgreens.com/findcare/covid19/testing?ban=covid_vanity_testing\">Walgreens COVID testing\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.riteaid.com/pharmacy/services/covid-19-testing\">Rite Aid COVID testing\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>Walgreens has also announced \u003ca href=\"https://www.walgreens.com/findcare/covid19/pcrpickup/\">a new program that offers free PCR test kits\u003c/a> for pickup in-store or curbside, no insurance required. These test kits are for your use at home, where you’ll swab yourself following the kit instructions and then mail the sample to a lab using the prepaid shipping box. Walgreens says results will be emailed to you 1–2 days after your sample is received at the lab.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.walgreens.com/findcare/covid19/pcrpickup/storeselect\">Check whether a Walgreens store near you has supplies of these free PCR test kits.\u003c/a> (We recommend trying different ZIP codes, for a higher chance of finding a store with availability.)\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Find a COVID test through your Bay Area county*\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The Bay Area county where you live, work or study will offer you a COVID test through their public health department. If you are uninsured, most county testing sites can still offer you a test.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Use the links below to find community testing sites in your area.\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://covid-19.acgov.org/testing.page\">Alameda County COVID tests\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.cityofberkeley.info/covid19-testing/\">City of Berkeley COVID tests\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.coronavirus.cchealth.org/get-tested\">Contra Costa County COVID tests\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://coronavirus.marinhhs.org/covid-19-testing-information\">Marin County COVID tests\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.countyofnapa.org/2776/COVID-19-Testing\">Napa County COVID tests\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://sf.gov/find-out-about-your-covid-19-testing-options\">San Francisco County COVID tests\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.smcgov.org/testing\">San Mateo County COVID tests\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.sccgov.org/sites/covid19/Pages/covid19-testing.aspx\">Santa Clara County COVID tests\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.solanocounty.com/depts/ph/coronavirus_links/faq___community_testing_sites.asp\">Solano County COVID tests\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://socoemergency.org/emergency/novel-coronavirus/testing-and-tracing/\">Sonoma County COVID tests\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_11898669\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\" style=\"max-width: 1920px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-11898669\" src=\"https://ww2.kqed.org/app/uploads/sites/10/2021/12/RS52827_GettyImages-1265318056-qut.jpg\" alt=\"A healthcare worker wearing PPE reaches through an open car window to administer a throat swab to a girl sitting in the car.\" width=\"1920\" height=\"1280\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2021/12/RS52827_GettyImages-1265318056-qut.jpg 1920w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2021/12/RS52827_GettyImages-1265318056-qut-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2021/12/RS52827_GettyImages-1265318056-qut-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2021/12/RS52827_GettyImages-1265318056-qut-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2021/12/RS52827_GettyImages-1265318056-qut-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">A health care worker administers a throat swab test at a drive-in COVID-19 testing center at MTO Shahmaghsoudi School of Islamic Sufism on Aug. 11, 2020, in Los Angeles. \u003ccite>(Mario Tama/Getty Images)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Find a COVID test through your school district*\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If your child attends a public school in the Bay Area, or if you’re a school district employee, you may find that COVID testing is offered through that school district. For example, \u003ca href=\"https://www.ousd.org/covidtesting\">Oakland Unified School District offers COVID testing\u003c/a> for all its staff, including employees, contractors and volunteers. Students and OUSD family members also are eligible.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Find a COVID test through one of these providers\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you are uninsured, you might find that the testing site down the street from you has stopped offering free tests to people without health coverage. That’s because \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11909026/finding-a-free-covid-test-without-insurance-just-got-harder-heres-how-to-get-one\">private providers can no longer claim the costs of testing uninsured folks for COVID from the federal government\u003c/a>. But different testing providers are handling this in different ways.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Some sites may continue offering free COVID tests to those without insurance, whereas others may now ask you to pay an out-of-pocket fee to get a test if you don’t have health insurance. Some testing sites may have made changes to their eligibility criteria for uninsured people. (\u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11909026/finding-a-free-covid-test-without-insurance-just-got-harder-heres-how-to-get-one\">Read more about how different sites have handled the changes.\u003c/a>)\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>In short: \u003cem>Always\u003c/em> check the billing details when making an appointment, especially if you’re uninsured. And if you do have health coverage, make sure to ask the test provider how they will bill the cost of the test to your insurance company. Insurance companies are required to cover the full cost of COVID-19 tests done at testing sites.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.testthepeople.org/\">Test the People COVID testing\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>Sites in Oakland and San Francisco\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.covidclinic.org/testing-sites\">COVID Clinic COVID testing\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>Sites in South San Francisco (for SFO Airport), San Mateo, Palo Alto, San José, Oakland (Fruitvale), Hayward, Pleasanton and Pleasant Hill\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://fulgentgenetics.com/schedule_search\">Fulgent Genetics COVID testing\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>Sites in Oakland and Hayward\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://carbonhealth.com/covid-testing\">Carbon Health COVID testing\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>Multiple sites in San Francisco, plus Oakland, Berkeley, San Leandro, San José and San Mateo\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.color.com/community-sites\">Color COVID testing\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>Sites in Oakland, San Francisco and Fairfield\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://book.curative.com/search#9/37.8637/-122.276\">Curative COVID testing\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>Multiple sites around the Bay Area\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://my.virusgeeks.com/\">Virus Geeks COVID testing\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>Sites in San Francisco, San Mateo, Redwood City, Woodside, Portola Valley and Foster City\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://lhi.care/covidtesting\">LHI/OptumServe COVID testing\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>Sites around the Bay Area\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://covidtesting.cityhealthuc.com/\">CityHealth COVID testing\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>Sites in San Francisco, Oakland, Livermore, Dublin, El Cerrito and San José\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://stanfordhealthcare.org/discover/covid-19-resource-center/testing.html\">Stanford Health Care COVID testing\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>Sites in Redwood City, San José, Palo Alto, Emeryville and Livermore (open to the public as well as Stanford Health patients)\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.totaltestingsolutions.com/individual-testing/free-testing/\">Total Testing Solutions\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>Site in Santa Clara\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>These results may be duplicated on your county’s public health website (see above).\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>\u003ca id=\"covidhometests\">\u003c/a>Using a COVID self-test at home\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>The CDC advises that while a negative result from a home COVID test “indicates that you may not be infected,” it “does not rule out an infection.” It’s therefore recommended that you \u003ca href=\"https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/testing/self-testing.html\">repeat the test for certainty\u003c/a>, especially if you’re getting tested to be able to attend an event.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/testing/self-testing.html\"> Doing two or more tests over several days\u003c/a> with at least 24 hours between tests — with one test as close as possible to the event you’re hoping to attend — “improves the reliability of testing and reduces your risk of transmitting disease to others even further,” says the CDC.[aside postID=news_11900490 hero='https://ww2.kqed.org/app/uploads/sites/10/2022/01/pexels-polina-tankilevitch-3873188-1-1020x680.jpg']\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>There are many types of home COVID testing kits available. One of the most well-known is the \u003ca href=\"https://www.cvs.com/shop/abbott-binaxnow-covid-19-antigen-self-test-2-tests-for-serial-testing-prodid-550147\">BinaxNOW COVID-19 Antigen Self Test\u003c/a>. If you suspect you’ve been exposed to COVID, or are experiencing symptoms and are quarantining yourself to avoid risking exposure for others, you might consider asking a friend or community member to purchase a COVID home testing kit for you, or to use the services of a delivery company from a pharmacy like CVS or Walgreens.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>How to get free or low-cost at-home COVID tests\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>The cost to diagnose COVID-19 is an eligible medical expense for tax purposes, which means you can use your health flexible spending account (health FSA), health savings account (HSA), health reimbursement arrangement (HRA), or Archer medical savings account (Archer MSA) to\u003ca href=\"https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs-cost-of-home-testing-for-covid-19-is-eligible-medical-expense-reimbursable-under-fsas-hsas\"> pay for or get reimbursed for an at-home COVID test kit\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>You can now \u003ca href=\"https://www.covidtests.gov/\">order up to 16 free at-home COVID-19 tests online\u003c/a> from the federal government and the United States Postal Service. The tests and shipping are completely free of charge. \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11901928/you-can-now-order-free-covid-at-home-tests-via-usps\">Read more about how to order free tests through USPS.\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>As of Jan. 15, people with private health insurance also can get reimbursed by their insurer for the cost of up to eight at-home COVID tests per month.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>This program applies only to at-home tests purchased on or after Jan. 15, and covers eight free tests \u003cem>per covered individual\u003c/em> per month. “That means \u003ca href=\"https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2022/01/14/fact-sheet-the-biden-administration-to-begin-distributing-at-home-rapid-covid-19-tests-to-americans-for-free/\">a family of four, all on the same plan, would be able to get 32 of these tests\u003c/a> covered by their health plan per month,” confirmed the White House.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11902122/at-home-covid-test-reimbursement-from-blue-shield-to-kaiser-how-to-get-your-health-insurance-to-pay-you-back\">Read more about getting reimbursed for at-home COVID tests through your health insurer, if you have one.\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_11885853\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\" style=\"max-width: 1920px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-11885853\" src=\"https://ww2.kqed.org/app/uploads/sites/10/2020/05/RS50689_020_SanFrancisco_COVIDTesting_08172021-qut.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1920\" height=\"1280\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2020/05/RS50689_020_SanFrancisco_COVIDTesting_08172021-qut.jpg 1920w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2020/05/RS50689_020_SanFrancisco_COVIDTesting_08172021-qut-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2020/05/RS50689_020_SanFrancisco_COVIDTesting_08172021-qut-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2020/05/RS50689_020_SanFrancisco_COVIDTesting_08172021-qut-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2020/05/RS50689_020_SanFrancisco_COVIDTesting_08172021-qut-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Dennis Otoshi administers a COVID-19 test outside the Southeast Health Center in San Francisco’s Bayview neighborhood on Aug. 17, 2021.\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003ch2>\u003ca id=\"timing\">\u003c/a>How soon should I get tested?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says that if you get a known exposure to someone with confirmed or suspected COVID, \u003ca href=\"https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/testing/diagnostic-testing.html\">you should get tested at least five days after that last exposure\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>According to a CDC study, \u003ca href=\"https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2022/01/22/science/charting-omicron-infection.html\">the omicron variant appears to move even faster, with an incubation of roughly three days\u003c/a>. But if you choose to test earlier than five days from an exposure, don’t take an early negative result as definitive proof you \u003cem>don’t\u003c/em> have COVID. Keep testing, to be sure you’re not infectious and inadvertently spreading COVID to others.\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">[aside postID=news_11901008 hero='https://ww2.kqed.org/app/uploads/sites/10/2022/01/GettyImages-1237588762-1020x680.jpg']\u003c/span>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The CDC also recommends you \u003ca href=\"https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/K-12-infographic.html\">wear a mask in public indoor settings for 14 days\u003c/a> or until you receive a negative test result.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you were in close contact with someone with COVID but have tested negative five days after exposure, the CDC says that even if you’re likely not infected, “an infection cannot be completely ruled out” and you should \u003ca href=\"https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/quarantine-isolation.html\">follow their quarantine and isolation guidance\u003c/a>, which includes monitoring yourself for symptoms and wearing a well-fitting mask.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Dr. Peter Chin-Hong, professor of medicine and an infectious disease specialist at UCSF, stresses that the timing of your exposure \u003cem>definitely\u003c/em> matters for whether you get a test, and when. If you’ve been in close contact with someone with a COVID diagnosis (that means you were together, unmasked, for more than 15 minutes and less than six feet apart), “we usually start thinking of exposure as around two days before the diagnosis of the friend,” Chin-Hong said.\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">[aside postID=news_11901928 hero='https://ww2.kqed.org/app/uploads/sites/10/2022/01/RS53138_GettyImages-1361961811-qut.jpg']\u003c/span>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“For example, if somebody went to a party with somebody five days ago, but then didn’t hang out with that person since five days ago, but that person got diagnosed two days ago, they wouldn’t need to worry about it,” Chin-Hong said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you’re getting tested to travel internationally, be sure to check the rules for that specific country, as they may have recently changed due to the omicron variant. Also, be sure of the time frames required to test for international travel, and be careful of time limits expressed in calendar days vs. hours (for example, “two days before your flight” rather than “48 hours before your flight”).\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Yes, getting a COVID test is still important if you’re vaccinated\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>We now know that breakthrough COVID infections — when a fully vaccinated person tests positive for the coronavirus — aren’t as rare as we once thought.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But these cases are still very unlikely to result in hospitalization or death — which is the whole point of a vaccine against disease. So if you get COVID when you’re vaccinated, your mind might be less on your personal health risks and more on the danger of spreading it to others, Chin-Hong says.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“As a vaccinated person, you are very unlikely to go to the hospital, get in a breathing tube and die,” Chin-Hong says. “What I \u003cem>can\u003c/em> tell you is you potentially could transmit it to others.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Knowing with certainty that you are not infected, he stresses, can make a huge difference for those who are much more vulnerable to the coronavirus — like children under 5 who aren’t yet eligible for a vaccine, or the immunocompromised — especially over holidays, where gathering with friends and family is common.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“Knowledge is power,” Chin-Hong says. “Not knowing you have [COVID-19] is much worse than knowing you have it.” And if your test comes back positive, you can then let those with whom you’ve been in close contact know so they \u003cem>also\u003c/em> can get tested and take preventive measures.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“You may break the chain of transmission,” Chin-Hong said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_11881587\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\" style=\"max-width: 892px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-11881587 size-full\" src=\"https://ww2.kqed.org/app/uploads/sites/10/2021/07/gettyimages-1328759187-fd5739ecd09b1029489c13ae04803e969b8470c4.jpg\" alt=\"A medical assistant stands over a woman and takes a swab from her nose.\" width=\"892\" height=\"669\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2021/07/gettyimages-1328759187-fd5739ecd09b1029489c13ae04803e969b8470c4.jpg 892w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2021/07/gettyimages-1328759187-fd5739ecd09b1029489c13ae04803e969b8470c4-800x600.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2021/07/gettyimages-1328759187-fd5739ecd09b1029489c13ae04803e969b8470c4-160x120.jpg 160w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 892px) 100vw, 892px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">A medical assistant administers a COVID-19 test at Sameday Testing on July 14, 2021, in Los Angeles. \u003ccite>(Mario Tama/Getty Images)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003ch2>A reminder of COVID symptoms to watch out for\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>As of November, the CDC recommends you keep an eye out for symptoms of COVID including:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>Fever or chills\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Cough\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Fatigue\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Muscle or body aches\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Headache\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>New loss of taste or smell\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Sore throat\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Congestion or runny nose\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Nausea or vomiting\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Diarrhea\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>Sneezing also is now being seen among some fully vaccinated folks as a COVID-19 symptom.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“Sneezing hadn’t been seen before until delta, among vaccinated folks,” Chin-Hong explains. He notes that sneezing \u003cem>could\u003c/em> be mistaken for allergies or a mild cold, which could dissuade folks from getting tested. But it’s best to be completely sure of your own status, he said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Fully vaccinated people may avoid the worst symptoms thanks to the vaccine, “but in the meantime, you probably are exposing a lot of other people to COVID-19 unknowingly,” he said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/symptoms-testing/coronavirus-self-checker.html\">The CDC’s website has a symptoms self-checker\u003c/a>, which you can use to gauge whether your symptoms could be COVID.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad fullwidth]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>A version of this story was originally published on Dec. 10, 2021. KQED’s Matthew Green and Carlos Cabrera-Lomelí contributed to this story.\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad floatright]\u003c/p>\n",
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"excerpt": "Whether you're looking for a rapid COVID test for travel, an antigen or a PCR test, or information about at-home COVID testing, we have answers to your questions about finding a COVID test near you.",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003cp>\u003cem>Updated 8:45 p.m., Tuesday, May 24.\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Skip to:\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>\u003ca href=\"#locations\">Where can I find a COVID test near me?\u003c/a>\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>\u003ca href=\"#timing\">How soon after possible exposure should I get tested?\u003c/a>\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>\u003ca href=\"#covidhometests\">How can I get free at-home COVID test kits?\u003c/a>\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://covid19.ca.gov/vaccination-progress-data/\">Over 75% of Californians are now fully vaccinated\u003c/a>, and over 58% have received their COVID booster shot.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But widespread breakthrough infections in fully vaccinated people and \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11914110/bay-area-health-officials-urge-residents-to-mask-up-again-and-be-vigilant-as-covid-cases-rise\">the recent rise in COVID case numbers around the Bay Area\u003c/a> are a reminder that COVID testing remains crucial to ending this pandemic.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Health experts stress that getting tested for COVID, even when fully vaccinated, is an effective way to stop the spread of the coronavirus faster. But what if you’re struggling to find a timely COVID test in the Bay Area — especially when you need the results as soon as possible — or accessing a free appointment?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Keep reading for how to find a COVID test near you, and your options depending on your reason for getting tested.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>One big thing to know: Finding a test if you’re uninsured became a little more complex a few months ago. In late March, \u003ca href=\"https://www.hrsa.gov/coviduninsuredclaim/submission-deadline\">the federal program that’s been funding COVID testing and care for people without health insurance ended \u003c/a>— and in several cases, testing sites that previously offered free COVID tests to people without insurance stopped doing so. This means that if you’re uninsured, unfortunately it’s now \u003cem>extra\u003c/em> important to check that the testing site you want to use still offers free tests for those without insurance.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The good news is that \u003ca href=\"#locations\">your local county testing site\u003c/a> most likely will not be affected by that federal funding change, and still will be able to offer you a free test without insurance. Uninsured people have other free testing options, too: Look for the asterisks (\u003cstrong>*)\u003c/strong> in our \u003ca href=\"#locations\">list of COVID testing providers around the Bay Area \u003c/a>to find them.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>\u003ca id=\"locations\">\u003c/a>Where to find a COVID PCR test in the Bay Area\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>If you’re looking for COVID-19 testing in the Bay Area, you have several options — and for many testing sites, you still don’t need health insurance.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Unless otherwise noted, testing sites use nasal or oral swabs to determine whether you have the virus — not an antibody (serology) blood-based test to determine whether you’ve been exposed.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Most sites require appointments, and test results should be available within three days. If you need results sooner, be sure to select a rapid test.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>Don’t have health insurance? Look out for the asterisks (*) below for the testing options most likely to be free for uninsured people.\u003c/em>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Find a COVID test through your health care provider\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you have health insurance and get health care through a regular provider, such as Kaiser Permanente, you may find it easiest to get a COVID test through that provider.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Log into your provider’s website or app and look for COVID testing options to make an appointment.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>You may find that certain providers offer testing to nonmembers. For example, \u003ca href=\"https://www.sutterhealth.org/find-location/facility/cpmc-covid-testing\">Sutter Health’s California Pacific Medical Center says it can schedule tests for nonmembers\u003c/a> as long as they have an order for the test from their physician.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_11903823\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\" style=\"max-width: 1920px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-11903823\" src=\"https://ww2.kqed.org/app/uploads/sites/10/2022/02/RS53459_006_StockPhoto_AtHomeCOVIDTest_02022022-qut.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1920\" height=\"1280\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/02/RS53459_006_StockPhoto_AtHomeCOVIDTest_02022022-qut.jpg 1920w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/02/RS53459_006_StockPhoto_AtHomeCOVIDTest_02022022-qut-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/02/RS53459_006_StockPhoto_AtHomeCOVIDTest_02022022-qut-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/02/RS53459_006_StockPhoto_AtHomeCOVIDTest_02022022-qut-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2022/02/RS53459_006_StockPhoto_AtHomeCOVIDTest_02022022-qut-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">A hand holds an at-home COVID-19 test. \u003ccite>(Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Find a COVID test through the state’s map*\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>For a complete list of COVID testing providers throughout California, use \u003ca href=\"https://myturn.ca.gov/testing.html\">the state’s map that says it shows all public and private COVID testing providers\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The state says that free testing is “available at select clinics” using this tool, and recommends you look for the word “free” next to the clinic’s name.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Find a COVID test through Test to Treat*\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>As the name “Test to Treat” implies, these locations allow you to get tested for COVID and potentially treated for it by being prescribed COVID antivirals on-site. \u003ca href=\"https://covid-19-test-to-treat-locator-dhhs.hub.arcgis.com/\">See a list of Test to Treat sites near you on the State of California’s map tool.\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>When you input your city or ZIP code in \u003ca href=\"https://covid-19-test-to-treat-locator-dhhs.hub.arcgis.com/\">the Test to Treat locator map\u003c/a>, look under “Locations with testing, medical visits, and medication (Test-to-Treat)” to find a testing location, not “Locations to fill a prescription.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The state says that services at Optum Serve Test to Treat sites are free to uninsured people. (This refers to those Test to Treat sites run by Optum Serve, which is the federal health services business of Optum and UnitedHealth Group.) If you’re uninsured and you visit a \u003ca href=\"https://covid-19-test-to-treat-locator-dhhs.hub.arcgis.com/\">Test to Treat location\u003c/a> that isn’t run by Optum Serve, you could potentially find yourself asked to pay costs out of pocket.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you’re uninsured and using \u003ca href=\"https://covid-19-test-to-treat-locator-dhhs.hub.arcgis.com/\">the Test to Treat locator map \u003c/a>to find a site, make sure you look specifically for the locations that say “Optum Serve.” You can also \u003ca href=\"https://lhi.care/covidtesting\">find only Optum Serve testing locations using the Optum Serve map online\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Find a COVID test through a pharmacy*\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Spokespeople for CVS and Walgreens have confirmed that as of May 2022, COVID testing at their stores is still free for people without insurance.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Still, be extra-sure to check the billing details when making an appointment for a COVID test, especially if you’re uninsured.\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.cvs.com/minuteclinic/covid-19-testing\">CVS COVID testing\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.walgreens.com/findcare/covid19/testing?ban=covid_vanity_testing\">Walgreens COVID testing\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.riteaid.com/pharmacy/services/covid-19-testing\">Rite Aid COVID testing\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>Walgreens has also announced \u003ca href=\"https://www.walgreens.com/findcare/covid19/pcrpickup/\">a new program that offers free PCR test kits\u003c/a> for pickup in-store or curbside, no insurance required. These test kits are for your use at home, where you’ll swab yourself following the kit instructions and then mail the sample to a lab using the prepaid shipping box. Walgreens says results will be emailed to you 1–2 days after your sample is received at the lab.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.walgreens.com/findcare/covid19/pcrpickup/storeselect\">Check whether a Walgreens store near you has supplies of these free PCR test kits.\u003c/a> (We recommend trying different ZIP codes, for a higher chance of finding a store with availability.)\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Find a COVID test through your Bay Area county*\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The Bay Area county where you live, work or study will offer you a COVID test through their public health department. If you are uninsured, most county testing sites can still offer you a test.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Use the links below to find community testing sites in your area.\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://covid-19.acgov.org/testing.page\">Alameda County COVID tests\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.cityofberkeley.info/covid19-testing/\">City of Berkeley COVID tests\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.coronavirus.cchealth.org/get-tested\">Contra Costa County COVID tests\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://coronavirus.marinhhs.org/covid-19-testing-information\">Marin County COVID tests\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.countyofnapa.org/2776/COVID-19-Testing\">Napa County COVID tests\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://sf.gov/find-out-about-your-covid-19-testing-options\">San Francisco County COVID tests\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.smcgov.org/testing\">San Mateo County COVID tests\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.sccgov.org/sites/covid19/Pages/covid19-testing.aspx\">Santa Clara County COVID tests\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://www.solanocounty.com/depts/ph/coronavirus_links/faq___community_testing_sites.asp\">Solano County COVID tests\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"https://socoemergency.org/emergency/novel-coronavirus/testing-and-tracing/\">Sonoma County COVID tests\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_11898669\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\" style=\"max-width: 1920px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-11898669\" src=\"https://ww2.kqed.org/app/uploads/sites/10/2021/12/RS52827_GettyImages-1265318056-qut.jpg\" alt=\"A healthcare worker wearing PPE reaches through an open car window to administer a throat swab to a girl sitting in the car.\" width=\"1920\" height=\"1280\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2021/12/RS52827_GettyImages-1265318056-qut.jpg 1920w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2021/12/RS52827_GettyImages-1265318056-qut-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2021/12/RS52827_GettyImages-1265318056-qut-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2021/12/RS52827_GettyImages-1265318056-qut-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2021/12/RS52827_GettyImages-1265318056-qut-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">A health care worker administers a throat swab test at a drive-in COVID-19 testing center at MTO Shahmaghsoudi School of Islamic Sufism on Aug. 11, 2020, in Los Angeles. \u003ccite>(Mario Tama/Getty Images)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Find a COVID test through your school district*\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If your child attends a public school in the Bay Area, or if you’re a school district employee, you may find that COVID testing is offered through that school district. For example, \u003ca href=\"https://www.ousd.org/covidtesting\">Oakland Unified School District offers COVID testing\u003c/a> for all its staff, including employees, contractors and volunteers. Students and OUSD family members also are eligible.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Find a COVID test through one of these providers\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you are uninsured, you might find that the testing site down the street from you has stopped offering free tests to people without health coverage. That’s because \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11909026/finding-a-free-covid-test-without-insurance-just-got-harder-heres-how-to-get-one\">private providers can no longer claim the costs of testing uninsured folks for COVID from the federal government\u003c/a>. But different testing providers are handling this in different ways.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Some sites may continue offering free COVID tests to those without insurance, whereas others may now ask you to pay an out-of-pocket fee to get a test if you don’t have health insurance. Some testing sites may have made changes to their eligibility criteria for uninsured people. (\u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11909026/finding-a-free-covid-test-without-insurance-just-got-harder-heres-how-to-get-one\">Read more about how different sites have handled the changes.\u003c/a>)\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>In short: \u003cem>Always\u003c/em> check the billing details when making an appointment, especially if you’re uninsured. And if you do have health coverage, make sure to ask the test provider how they will bill the cost of the test to your insurance company. Insurance companies are required to cover the full cost of COVID-19 tests done at testing sites.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.testthepeople.org/\">Test the People COVID testing\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>Sites in Oakland and San Francisco\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.covidclinic.org/testing-sites\">COVID Clinic COVID testing\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>Sites in South San Francisco (for SFO Airport), San Mateo, Palo Alto, San José, Oakland (Fruitvale), Hayward, Pleasanton and Pleasant Hill\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://fulgentgenetics.com/schedule_search\">Fulgent Genetics COVID testing\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>Sites in Oakland and Hayward\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://carbonhealth.com/covid-testing\">Carbon Health COVID testing\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>Multiple sites in San Francisco, plus Oakland, Berkeley, San Leandro, San José and San Mateo\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.color.com/community-sites\">Color COVID testing\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>Sites in Oakland, San Francisco and Fairfield\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://book.curative.com/search#9/37.8637/-122.276\">Curative COVID testing\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>Multiple sites around the Bay Area\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://my.virusgeeks.com/\">Virus Geeks COVID testing\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>Sites in San Francisco, San Mateo, Redwood City, Woodside, Portola Valley and Foster City\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://lhi.care/covidtesting\">LHI/OptumServe COVID testing\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>Sites around the Bay Area\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://covidtesting.cityhealthuc.com/\">CityHealth COVID testing\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>Sites in San Francisco, Oakland, Livermore, Dublin, El Cerrito and San José\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://stanfordhealthcare.org/discover/covid-19-resource-center/testing.html\">Stanford Health Care COVID testing\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>Sites in Redwood City, San José, Palo Alto, Emeryville and Livermore (open to the public as well as Stanford Health patients)\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.totaltestingsolutions.com/individual-testing/free-testing/\">Total Testing Solutions\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>Site in Santa Clara\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>These results may be duplicated on your county’s public health website (see above).\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>\u003ca id=\"covidhometests\">\u003c/a>Using a COVID self-test at home\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>The CDC advises that while a negative result from a home COVID test “indicates that you may not be infected,” it “does not rule out an infection.” It’s therefore recommended that you \u003ca href=\"https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/testing/self-testing.html\">repeat the test for certainty\u003c/a>, especially if you’re getting tested to be able to attend an event.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/testing/self-testing.html\"> Doing two or more tests over several days\u003c/a> with at least 24 hours between tests — with one test as close as possible to the event you’re hoping to attend — “improves the reliability of testing and reduces your risk of transmitting disease to others even further,” says the CDC.\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>There are many types of home COVID testing kits available. One of the most well-known is the \u003ca href=\"https://www.cvs.com/shop/abbott-binaxnow-covid-19-antigen-self-test-2-tests-for-serial-testing-prodid-550147\">BinaxNOW COVID-19 Antigen Self Test\u003c/a>. If you suspect you’ve been exposed to COVID, or are experiencing symptoms and are quarantining yourself to avoid risking exposure for others, you might consider asking a friend or community member to purchase a COVID home testing kit for you, or to use the services of a delivery company from a pharmacy like CVS or Walgreens.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>How to get free or low-cost at-home COVID tests\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>The cost to diagnose COVID-19 is an eligible medical expense for tax purposes, which means you can use your health flexible spending account (health FSA), health savings account (HSA), health reimbursement arrangement (HRA), or Archer medical savings account (Archer MSA) to\u003ca href=\"https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs-cost-of-home-testing-for-covid-19-is-eligible-medical-expense-reimbursable-under-fsas-hsas\"> pay for or get reimbursed for an at-home COVID test kit\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>You can now \u003ca href=\"https://www.covidtests.gov/\">order up to 16 free at-home COVID-19 tests online\u003c/a> from the federal government and the United States Postal Service. The tests and shipping are completely free of charge. \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11901928/you-can-now-order-free-covid-at-home-tests-via-usps\">Read more about how to order free tests through USPS.\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>As of Jan. 15, people with private health insurance also can get reimbursed by their insurer for the cost of up to eight at-home COVID tests per month.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>This program applies only to at-home tests purchased on or after Jan. 15, and covers eight free tests \u003cem>per covered individual\u003c/em> per month. “That means \u003ca href=\"https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2022/01/14/fact-sheet-the-biden-administration-to-begin-distributing-at-home-rapid-covid-19-tests-to-americans-for-free/\">a family of four, all on the same plan, would be able to get 32 of these tests\u003c/a> covered by their health plan per month,” confirmed the White House.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11902122/at-home-covid-test-reimbursement-from-blue-shield-to-kaiser-how-to-get-your-health-insurance-to-pay-you-back\">Read more about getting reimbursed for at-home COVID tests through your health insurer, if you have one.\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_11885853\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\" style=\"max-width: 1920px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-11885853\" src=\"https://ww2.kqed.org/app/uploads/sites/10/2020/05/RS50689_020_SanFrancisco_COVIDTesting_08172021-qut.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1920\" height=\"1280\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2020/05/RS50689_020_SanFrancisco_COVIDTesting_08172021-qut.jpg 1920w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2020/05/RS50689_020_SanFrancisco_COVIDTesting_08172021-qut-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2020/05/RS50689_020_SanFrancisco_COVIDTesting_08172021-qut-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2020/05/RS50689_020_SanFrancisco_COVIDTesting_08172021-qut-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2020/05/RS50689_020_SanFrancisco_COVIDTesting_08172021-qut-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Dennis Otoshi administers a COVID-19 test outside the Southeast Health Center in San Francisco’s Bayview neighborhood on Aug. 17, 2021.\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003ch2>\u003ca id=\"timing\">\u003c/a>How soon should I get tested?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says that if you get a known exposure to someone with confirmed or suspected COVID, \u003ca href=\"https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/testing/diagnostic-testing.html\">you should get tested at least five days after that last exposure\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>According to a CDC study, \u003ca href=\"https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2022/01/22/science/charting-omicron-infection.html\">the omicron variant appears to move even faster, with an incubation of roughly three days\u003c/a>. But if you choose to test earlier than five days from an exposure, don’t take an early negative result as definitive proof you \u003cem>don’t\u003c/em> have COVID. Keep testing, to be sure you’re not infectious and inadvertently spreading COVID to others.\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003c/span>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The CDC also recommends you \u003ca href=\"https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/K-12-infographic.html\">wear a mask in public indoor settings for 14 days\u003c/a> or until you receive a negative test result.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you were in close contact with someone with COVID but have tested negative five days after exposure, the CDC says that even if you’re likely not infected, “an infection cannot be completely ruled out” and you should \u003ca href=\"https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/quarantine-isolation.html\">follow their quarantine and isolation guidance\u003c/a>, which includes monitoring yourself for symptoms and wearing a well-fitting mask.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Dr. Peter Chin-Hong, professor of medicine and an infectious disease specialist at UCSF, stresses that the timing of your exposure \u003cem>definitely\u003c/em> matters for whether you get a test, and when. If you’ve been in close contact with someone with a COVID diagnosis (that means you were together, unmasked, for more than 15 minutes and less than six feet apart), “we usually start thinking of exposure as around two days before the diagnosis of the friend,” Chin-Hong said.\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003c/span>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“For example, if somebody went to a party with somebody five days ago, but then didn’t hang out with that person since five days ago, but that person got diagnosed two days ago, they wouldn’t need to worry about it,” Chin-Hong said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you’re getting tested to travel internationally, be sure to check the rules for that specific country, as they may have recently changed due to the omicron variant. Also, be sure of the time frames required to test for international travel, and be careful of time limits expressed in calendar days vs. hours (for example, “two days before your flight” rather than “48 hours before your flight”).\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Yes, getting a COVID test is still important if you’re vaccinated\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>We now know that breakthrough COVID infections — when a fully vaccinated person tests positive for the coronavirus — aren’t as rare as we once thought.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But these cases are still very unlikely to result in hospitalization or death — which is the whole point of a vaccine against disease. So if you get COVID when you’re vaccinated, your mind might be less on your personal health risks and more on the danger of spreading it to others, Chin-Hong says.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“As a vaccinated person, you are very unlikely to go to the hospital, get in a breathing tube and die,” Chin-Hong says. “What I \u003cem>can\u003c/em> tell you is you potentially could transmit it to others.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Knowing with certainty that you are not infected, he stresses, can make a huge difference for those who are much more vulnerable to the coronavirus — like children under 5 who aren’t yet eligible for a vaccine, or the immunocompromised — especially over holidays, where gathering with friends and family is common.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“Knowledge is power,” Chin-Hong says. “Not knowing you have [COVID-19] is much worse than knowing you have it.” And if your test comes back positive, you can then let those with whom you’ve been in close contact know so they \u003cem>also\u003c/em> can get tested and take preventive measures.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“You may break the chain of transmission,” Chin-Hong said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_11881587\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\" style=\"max-width: 892px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-11881587 size-full\" src=\"https://ww2.kqed.org/app/uploads/sites/10/2021/07/gettyimages-1328759187-fd5739ecd09b1029489c13ae04803e969b8470c4.jpg\" alt=\"A medical assistant stands over a woman and takes a swab from her nose.\" width=\"892\" height=\"669\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2021/07/gettyimages-1328759187-fd5739ecd09b1029489c13ae04803e969b8470c4.jpg 892w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2021/07/gettyimages-1328759187-fd5739ecd09b1029489c13ae04803e969b8470c4-800x600.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2021/07/gettyimages-1328759187-fd5739ecd09b1029489c13ae04803e969b8470c4-160x120.jpg 160w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 892px) 100vw, 892px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">A medical assistant administers a COVID-19 test at Sameday Testing on July 14, 2021, in Los Angeles. \u003ccite>(Mario Tama/Getty Images)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003ch2>A reminder of COVID symptoms to watch out for\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>As of November, the CDC recommends you keep an eye out for symptoms of COVID including:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>Fever or chills\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Cough\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Fatigue\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Muscle or body aches\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Headache\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>New loss of taste or smell\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Sore throat\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Congestion or runny nose\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Nausea or vomiting\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Diarrhea\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>Sneezing also is now being seen among some fully vaccinated folks as a COVID-19 symptom.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“Sneezing hadn’t been seen before until delta, among vaccinated folks,” Chin-Hong explains. He notes that sneezing \u003cem>could\u003c/em> be mistaken for allergies or a mild cold, which could dissuade folks from getting tested. But it’s best to be completely sure of your own status, he said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Fully vaccinated people may avoid the worst symptoms thanks to the vaccine, “but in the meantime, you probably are exposing a lot of other people to COVID-19 unknowingly,” he said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/symptoms-testing/coronavirus-self-checker.html\">The CDC’s website has a symptoms self-checker\u003c/a>, which you can use to gauge whether your symptoms could be COVID.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"tagline": "Where conversation and cultura meet",
"info": "What kind of no sabo word is Hyphenación? For us, it’s about living within a hyphenation. Like being a third-gen Mexican-American from the Texas border now living that Bay Area Chicano life. Like Xorje! Each week we bring together a couple of hyphenated Latinos to talk all about personal life choices: family, careers, relationships, belonging … everything is on the table. ",
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"info": "The Political Mind of Jerry Brown brings listeners the wisdom of the former Governor, Mayor, and presidential candidate. Scott Shafer interviewed Brown for more than 40 hours, covering the former governor's life and half-century in the political game – and Brown has some lessons he'd like to share. ",
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"marketplace": {
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"info": "Our flagship program, helmed by Kai Ryssdal, examines what the day in money delivered, through stories, conversations, newsworthy numbers and more. Updated Monday through Friday at about 3:30 p.m. PT.",
"airtime": "MON-FRI 4pm-4:30pm, MON-WED 6:30pm-7pm",
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"info": "The MindShift podcast explores the innovations in education that are shaping how kids learn. Hosts Ki Sung and Katrina Schwartz introduce listeners to educators, researchers, parents and students who are developing effective ways to improve how kids learn. We cover topics like how fed-up administrators are developing surprising tactics to deal with classroom disruptions; how listening to podcasts are helping kids develop reading skills; the consequences of overparenting; and why interdisciplinary learning can engage students on all ends of the traditional achievement spectrum. This podcast is part of the MindShift education site, a division of KQED News. KQED is an NPR/PBS member station based in San Francisco. You can also visit the MindShift website for episodes and supplemental blog posts or tweet us \u003ca href=\"https://twitter.com/MindShiftKQED\">@MindShiftKQED\u003c/a> or visit us at \u003ca href=\"/mindshift\">MindShift.KQED.org\u003c/a>",
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"info": "For decades, the process for how police police themselves has been inconsistent – if not opaque. In some states, like California, these proceedings were completely hidden. After a new police transparency law unsealed scores of internal affairs files, our reporters set out to examine these cases and the shadow world of police discipline. On Our Watch brings listeners into the rooms where officers are questioned and witnesses are interrogated to find out who this system is really protecting. Is it the officers, or the public they've sworn to serve?",
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"info": "Our weekly podcast explores how the media 'sausage' is made, casts an incisive eye on fluctuations in the marketplace of ideas, and examines threats to the freedom of information and expression in America and abroad. For one hour a week, the show tries to lift the veil from the process of \"making media,\" especially news media, because it's through that lens that we see the world and the world sees us",
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"politicalbreakdown": {
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"title": "Political Breakdown",
"tagline": "Politics from a personal perspective",
"info": "Political Breakdown is a new series that explores the political intersection of California and the nation. Each week hosts Scott Shafer and Marisa Lagos are joined with a new special guest to unpack politics -- with personality — and offer an insider’s glimpse at how politics happens.",
"airtime": "THU 6:30pm-7pm",
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"possible": {
"id": "possible",
"title": "Possible",
"info": "Possible is hosted by entrepreneur Reid Hoffman and writer Aria Finger. Together in Possible, Hoffman and Finger lead enlightening discussions about building a brighter collective future. The show features interviews with visionary guests like Trevor Noah, Sam Altman and Janette Sadik-Khan. Possible paints an optimistic portrait of the world we can create through science, policy, business, art and our shared humanity. It asks: What if everything goes right for once? How can we get there? Each episode also includes a short fiction story generated by advanced AI GPT-4, serving as a thought-provoking springboard to speculate how humanity could leverage technology for good.",
"airtime": "SUN 2pm",
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"pri-the-world": {
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"title": "PRI's The World: Latest Edition",
"info": "Each weekday, host Marco Werman and his team of producers bring you the world's most interesting stories in an hour of radio that reminds us just how small our planet really is.",
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"imageSrc": "https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/The-World-Podcast-Tile-360x360-1.jpg",
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"radiolab": {
"id": "radiolab",
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"info": "A two-time Peabody Award-winner, Radiolab is an investigation told through sounds and stories, and centered around one big idea. In the Radiolab world, information sounds like music and science and culture collide. Hosted by Jad Abumrad and Robert Krulwich, the show is designed for listeners who demand skepticism, but appreciate wonder. WNYC Studios is the producer of other leading podcasts including Freakonomics Radio, Death, Sex & Money, On the Media and many more.",
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"reveal": {
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"info": "Created by The Center for Investigative Reporting and PRX, Reveal is public radios first one-hour weekly radio show and podcast dedicated to investigative reporting. Credible, fact based and without a partisan agenda, Reveal combines the power and artistry of driveway moment storytelling with data-rich reporting on critically important issues. The result is stories that inform and inspire, arming our listeners with information to right injustices, hold the powerful accountable and improve lives.Reveal is hosted by Al Letson and showcases the award-winning work of CIR and newsrooms large and small across the nation. In a radio and podcast market crowded with choices, Reveal focuses on important and often surprising stories that illuminate the world for our listeners.",
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},
"rightnowish": {
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"title": "Rightnowish",
"tagline": "Art is where you find it",
"info": "Rightnowish digs into life in the Bay Area right now… ish. Journalist Pendarvis Harshaw takes us to galleries painted on the sides of liquor stores in West Oakland. We'll dance in warehouses in the Bayview, make smoothies with kids in South Berkeley, and listen to classical music in a 1984 Cutlass Supreme in Richmond. Every week, Pen talks to movers and shakers about how the Bay Area shapes what they create, and how they shape the place we call home.",
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},
"science-friday": {
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"info": "Science Friday is a weekly science talk show, broadcast live over public radio stations nationwide. Each week, the show focuses on science topics that are in the news and tries to bring an educated, balanced discussion to bear on the scientific issues at hand. Panels of expert guests join host Ira Flatow, a veteran science journalist, to discuss science and to take questions from listeners during the call-in portion of the program.",
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"snap-judgment": {
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"title": "Snap Judgment",
"tagline": "Real stories with killer beats",
"info": "The Snap Judgment radio show and podcast mixes real stories with killer beats to produce cinematic, dramatic radio. Snap's musical brand of storytelling dares listeners to see the world through the eyes of another. This is storytelling... with a BEAT!! Snap first aired on public radio stations nationwide in July 2010. Today, Snap Judgment airs on over 450 public radio stations and is brought to the airwaves by KQED & PRX.",
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},
"soldout": {
"id": "soldout",
"title": "SOLD OUT: Rethinking Housing in America",
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