The LA County Home Test Collection Program is offering free COVID-19 test kits to those who have been exposed to COVID-19 or are experiencing possible symptoms of COVID-19. The test kits are mailed to your home address with instructions on how to collect a nasal swab. The kit is then returned in the mail and you’ll have results within 48 hours after the lab receives your sample. You do not need insurance to get a test kit. To sign up for a test kit or learn more information, visit here.
What You Need to Know About The Omicron Variant
The Omicron Variant
Recently, a new variant of the COVID-19 virus has surfaced. “Variants” or “strains” are types of COVID-19 viruses that have mutated, or changed, from their original form. This naturally happens as a virus spreads; for example, each flu season there may be a variant and each new flu vaccine is designed to protect against it. When a variant infects a large number of people, it can become a “dominant strain” because it is the most successful at spreading person-to-person.
As of this week, the Omicron variant has been detected in the United States. The Delta variant is still the dominant strain in the United States.
What We Know
So far, scientists know that the Omicron variant seems to have more mutations from the original virus in the past, including the Delta variant. It also may be more transmissible from person-to-person, however there is not enough data to know for sure. Symptoms of the Omicron variant do not seem to be different from other forms of COVID-19. To read about possible COVID-19 symptoms, click here.
From data in countries with more confirmed cases, previous infection with COVID-19 does not provide immunity against the Omicron variant. This means that the virus has changed enough from its original form that it evades natural immunity. Although this is disappointing, similar changes happen with other viruses. It is also expected to have spikes in virus transmission rates as it gets colder and more people travel for the holidays. Finally, we have learned a lot from the Delta variant; measures like vaccinations and boosters, masking, and social distancing provide great protection against COVID-19.
Vaccines and Omicron
Vaccines provide two types of immunity against COVID-19. First, your body makes antibodies against parts of the virus to recognize and fight it. Second, your immune cells remember the virus so it can protect you in the future.
Because the Omicron variant has changed from the original COVID-19 virus, antibody immunity may not be as strong. However, more importantly, immune cell defenses can still protect people who are vaccinated against severe disease. It is a great idea to get vaccinated or receive a booster shot to prevent COVID-19.
How to Protect Yourself and Your Loved Ones
We have learned a lot over the course of the pandemic about how to prevent the spread of COVID-19. The best way to prevent illness and death from all forms of COVID-19 is to get a vaccine, and get a booster shot if you are eligible. Encourage your family members to stay up to date with their vaccines. Continue to wear a mask indoors in public places and consider COVID-19 testing before large holiday gatherings. Practice good hand hygiene and keep your spirits high. For more tips about Staying Safe During the Holidays, visit our What’s New Page and the CDC’s guide on Travel and COVID-19. To read more about Omicron, visit this helpful article from UCLA Health with FAQs and answers.
Staying Safe for the Holidays
COVID-19 Updates
COVID-19 VACCINES FOR CHILDREN 5+
The CDC has recently expanded eligibility for COVID-19 vaccination. Children ages 5-11 are now able to receive the Pfizer vaccine. This means that nearly everyone 5 years and older can get vaccinated and combat transmission, illness, and death from COVID-19. Even better, families can reunite with more safety, peace of mind, and a sense of normalcy.
PROOF OF VACCINATION
Right now, only certain establishments like bars, venues, and nightclubs require proof of full vaccination against COVID-19 in Los Angeles County. However, other businesses may choose to require proof of vaccination to protect customers and employees. Later this November, LA plans to mandate proof of full vaccination to enter indoor restaurants, malls, venues, salons, gyms and other places. There are a few different ways you can provide proof:
· Bring your white vaccination card you received at your appointment, or a yellow WHO vaccination card
· Bring documentation from a healthcare provider
· Bring a digital vaccination record from the California Department of Public Health or from an approved company
You can read more about proof of vaccination here.
One way to receive a convenient, digital vaccination record from the California Department of Public Health is to visit the Digital COVID-19 Vaccine Record and enter your name and birthdate. You then will receive a document to your email or mobile phone that shows your proof of vaccination.
Booster Shots Approved for All 3 Vaccines, Can Mix Them
As of Oct 21, The CDC and FDA approved the use of Moderna and Johnson & Johnson vaccine boosters. This comes 2 weeks after the approval of Pfizer’s booster shot. There are a few things you need to know about who can get a booster shot, when they are recommended., and where to find them.
Recommendations About Timing
Vaccines have different guidelines for when to receive a booster.
For those that received the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, a booster shot can be given at least 2 months after the original dose in people age 18 years and older. For those that received the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine, a booster shot can be given at least 6 months after the second dose of the original vaccine.
Mix-and-Match
Vaccines series can be “mixed” by choice or availability.
For example, someone who was fully vaccinated with the Johnson & Johnson vaccine can receive a Pfizer OR Moderna booster shot 2+ months after their primary dose. Similarly, someone who was fully vaccinated with a Pfizer vaccine can receive a booster shot of the Johnson & Johnson OR Moderna vaccine 6+ months after their final dose. You may also choose to get a booster shot that is the same type of vaccine you were originally given.
Locations & more Information
You can receive a booster shot virtually wherever you received your original vaccine. This is because booster shots are just additional doses of the original vaccines. To make an appointment or find a walk-in clinic near you, visit https://myturn.ca.gov/.
To read more about booster shots, eligibility and approval, visit the FDA or CDC websites.