English
SpanishMany of us still have some level of immunity against severe COVID-19 disease, but viral transmission remains high. Generally, whenever a lot of people are gathered indoors, assume other respiratory viruses are there too.
Latest News
Updated COVID-19 booster shots are on their way!
Moderna 18+ and Pfizer 12+ bivalent boosters have been approved by FDA, recommended by CDC and ACIP. Bivalent boosters will be available to Benton and Franklin communities in the next couple weeks.
What is my risk? How to use COVID-19 data to stay safe
In earlier days of the pandemic, looking at the number of COVID-19 cases in our community and whether it was rising or falling was a reliable indicator of risk. But that has changed. Case numbers are not as reliable now because a lot of people are testing positive with home tests and they are not always reported to public health.
“Test to Treat” program offers easy access to COVID-19 treatment
Oral antivirals and monoclonal antibodies became available in our community a few months ago. Unfortunately, many of us aren’t sure if we qualify or when to begin those treatments. Others simply don’t have a primary healthcare provider to ask. Test to Treat aims to remove those barriers.
COVID-19 Viewed Through a New Lens
COVID-19 is not going to disappear any time soon. But as we learn to live with it, we can find new ways to look at it and learn about it.
Everything you’re asking us about at-home COVID testing
Reporting your at-home test results is now easier than ever! The Benton-Franklin Health District has developed a simple online self-reporting form that can be accessed from the district’s web page in both English and Spanish on any of the District’s COVID web pages in the top magenta bar.
Why should I get a booster if I might get COVID anyway?
Adapted from Public Health Insider – Official Insights from Public Health
Planning ahead for a safe holiday season
Protect everybody this season! Mark these dates on your calendar if you want your children to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 before holiday gatherings.
What is a “breakthrough case” and why did I even get vaccinated?
Breakthrough cases aren’t limited to the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus. Influenza vaccines reduce risk of illness by between only 40% and 60%.
KEPR: Tri-Cities’ medical providers await vaccine distribution approval
The first shipment of the COVID-19 vaccine arrived in Benton County this week — 1,950 doses....
KEPR: Local Health Leaders Urge Action
Socially distanced and wearing masks, local health leaders have one message, “Please help stop the spread of COVID.”