Many 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.
Public Health
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.
Don’t just guess, test for COVID-19 before traveling this week
If your family is fully vaccinated, Great! This blog isn’t for you. However, if you have unvaccinated guests, the next best thing you can add for the protection of your health, the health of your family, and the health of the community is to test for COVID-19 before gathering.
Studies Identify COVID-19 Link to Diabetes
People with certain underlying health conditions, such as diabetes, are at greater risk of severe...
BFHD Hosts Joint Press Conference on COVID Crisis
Listen to key health care and elected leaders speak on the state of our counties....
The skinny about at-home COVID-19 antigen tests
At-home COVID-19 antigen tests are now available in many stores. Get the facts on when and how they should be used.
It’s Complicated: Why Some Northwest Latinx Residents And Farmworkers Hesitate On COVID Vaccine
Reporter Anna King explores why many Latinx families are facing barriers to getting vaccinated against COVID-19. (Northwest Public Broadcasting)
Homebound and waiting for your COVID-19 vaccine? Providers might reach out to you, but here’s what to do if they don’t.
What programs are in the works?Benton-Franklin Health District (BFHD) is working hard to connect...