Note: This information is based on currently available evidence, resources, information, emergency use authorization, and expert opinion, and is subject to change.
COVID-19 Basics
General Questions
Where can I learn more about the SARS-CoV-2 virus? (Last updated 8/29/22)Visit the following webpages to learn more about the SARS-CoV-2 virus and COVID-19:
CDC Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)
What are the most reliable sources of COVID-19 information? (Last updated 6/1/22)For those with access to the internet, the best sources of up-to-date information on COVID-19 are the Virginia Department of Health website, COVID.gov, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website. You can also call 877-ASK-VDH3 (877-829-4682) Monday–Friday from 8:00am–5:00pm for additional information.
What should I know about myths and facts related to COVID-19 or to COVID-19 vaccines?There are many myths on the internet about COVID-19. Make sure you get your information from a trusted public health source such as VDH, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention or the World Health Organization.
The CDC provides information addressing Myths and Facts about COVID-19 Vaccination.
With COVID-19 vaccines available in the United States, it is important to get accurate vaccine information. Additional information is available in VDH’s Vaccination Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs).
What is the current status of COVID-19 in the United States? (Last updated 2/13/23)For information and updates on cases and hospitalizations associated with COVID-19 in the U.S., visit the CDC Data Tracker website.
The COVID-19 public health emergency (PHE) and national emergency declarations, that have been in place since early 2020 will expire on May 11, 2023. The end of the declarations does not affect the emergency use authorizations (EUAs) issued for COVID-19 vaccines, tests, or treatments.
Even with the announcement about the end of the declarations, COVID-19 is still an important public health issue, and you should continue to take measures to protect yourself and your family.
VDH continues to work hard to prevent COVID-19, including continuing to monitor and track cases, encouraging testing and treatment, ensuring access to vaccines, and performing outreach to providers and other partners.
How do I learn more about COVID-19 if I speak a different language? (Last updated 3/22/21)At the top of all VDH web pages, there is a Google Translate button that says 'Select Language.' The button looks like this:
Clicking on this button translates web page content into 100+ different languages immediately. From there, you can go to the main COVID-19 page at: https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/coronavirus/ where you can learn more about COVID-19.
The vdh.virginia.gov website is providing the “Google Translate” option to assist you in reading the vdh.virginia.gov website in languages other than English. Google Translate cannot translate all types of documents, and may not provide an exact translation.
¿Cómo puedo obtener más información sobre COVID-19 si hablo un idioma diferente? (Última actualización 3/22/21)En la parte superior de todas las páginas de web del VDH, hay un botón del Traductor de Google que dice "Seleccionar idioma". En inglés, el botón de Traductor de Google dice “Select Language” y aparece así:
Al hacer clic y seleccionar el idioma preferido, el contenido de la página web puede ser traducido a más de 100 idiomas diferentes inmediatamente. Desde allí, puede ir a la página principal de COVID-19: COVID-19 en Virginia donde puede obtener más información sobre el COVID-19.
El sitio web vdh.virginia.gov ofrece la opción "Traductor de Google" para ayudarle a leer el sitio web de vdh.virginia.gov en otros idiomas además de inglés. Google Translate no puede traducir todos los tipos de documentos y es posible que no proporcione una traducción exacta.
Virginia Questions
What is the current status of COVID-19 in Virginia? (Last updated 2/13/23)For updates of cases and hospitalizations associated with COVID-19 as well as outbreak information, check the VDH Website. To find your COVID-19 Community Level, visit the CDC website.
Read the CDC: COVID Data Tracker Weekly Review for a national summary.
What is VDH doing to monitor the status of COVID-19 in Virginia? (Last updated 5/16/22)VDH continues to collect and monitor the data on COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations, and deaths.
VDH continues to work with our laboratory partners at the Division of Consolidated Laboratory Services. Genomic surveillance of positive samples to identify how the variants and sub-variants of the SARS-CoV-2 virus can be genetically different, helps us monitor for specific variants and to detect other genetic changes in the virus that are present in positive cases in Virginia.
VDH epidemiologists might identify situations of concern, for example, COVID-19 infection in people who had recent international travel to an area where new variants are coming up, outbreaks that seem to spread very quickly, or cases of illness that are more severe than expected. In these situations, whole genome sequencing of samples can be requested to help our public health investigation and response efforts.
The VDH wastewater surveillance program can provide an early signal for a rise in COVID-19 cases, including cases with and without symptoms, and positive samples can also be tested for variants. Wastewater surveillance can also provide data on the prevalence (proportion of the population that have an infection) of the virus in the community when patient testing data is limited.
We are closely watching the effect of variants on several dynamics of the pandemic including the effect on how easily they spread, disease severity, on immunity after vaccination or natural infection, on the ability of tests to detect the virus, on the effectiveness of monoclonal antibody treatments, and on vaccine effectiveness.
CDC’s COVID-19 Community Levels can help counties, other communities, and individuals make decisions based on the level of COVID-19 transmission in their specific county, and their unique needs.
How can I find out which health district or health region my city or county is in?Use the VDH Geography Locator Tool to help you identify your health district and health region.
How is VDH responding to COVID-19 cases, people who have come in contact with sick people and outbreaks in Virginia? (Last updated 1/31/22)VDH moved from trying to investigate every case of COVID-19 and trace all contacts to focusing on follow-up of outbreaks and cases in high risk settings. Public health staff will prioritize responding to COVID-19 clusters and outbreaks in long-term care facilities and other congregate settings, healthcare settings, and other high-risk settings, and will focus on follow-up with individuals most at risk for negative health effects from COVID-19. More information on contact tracing is available on the VDH website.
What is COVIDWISE? (Last updated 6/28/21)COVIDWISE is the official Virginia Exposure Notification System (ENS) app. This free smartphone app is available to all Virginians on Google Play and in the App Store. Your phone can be used to notify you quickly if you’ve been exposed. Using the app is voluntary and your privacy is protected. Location is never used and the app has a feature that can take symptom onset date into consideration.
Information on COVIDWISE can be found on VDH’s COVIDWISE webpage
FAQs regarding COVIDWISE can be found on VDH's COVIDWISE FAQ page.
What should I do if I receive an exposure notification from COVIDWISE or COVIDWISE Express? (Last updated 8/22/22)For more information on what to do following a potential exposure, please visit VDH's Exposed to COVID-19 website.
Disease Prevention
What prevention measures should individuals follow? (Last updated 3/13/23)Regardless of community transmission levels, VDH encourages everyone to stay up to date on their COVID-19 vaccines, including the recent bivalent boosters, and to increase ventilation in indoor spaces.
Situations where you should always wear a mask:
- If you have symptoms of COVID-19.
- Until 10 days after a positive COVID-19 test and are around other people. Visit CDC’s website to see how you might be able to stop wearing a mask earlier.
Situations where you may choose to wear a mask:
- After an exposure to someone with COVID-19, and are around others.
Masking based on COVID-19 Community Level:
Knowing the COVID-19 Community Level in your area will help you know what additional prevention measures to take when you are in the community.
Low Community Level:
- Wear a mask based on your personal preference and your level of risk of developing severe illness.
Medium Community Level:
- If you have a weakened immune system or at high risk for severe illness, talk to your healthcare provider about additional precautions, such as wearing masks or respirators indoors in public.
- If you live with or have social contact with someone at high risk for severe illness , consider testing yourself for infection before you get together and wearing a mask when indoors with them
High Community Level:
- CDC recommends that you wear a mask or respirator that provides you and others with greater protection, like an N95 or KN95, when indoors in public.
Testing guidance:
- At all COVID-19 Community Levels, get tested if you have COVID-19 symptoms.
- After an exposure:
- If you choose to, get tested on Day 6 (5 full days after exposure).
- If you already had COVID-19 within the past 90 days, see specific testing recommendations.
- For questions about travel, high-risk activities, and other testing guidance, access CDC’s testing page.
You can visit COVID.gov for information on COVID-19 vaccines, tests, treatments, and masks, as well as getting the latest updates on COVID-19 in your area.
How can I get a free N95 mask? (Last updated 3/17/22)High-quality non-surgical N95 masks are being made available to all Americans for free. Masks are available at community health centers across the U.S. Up to three masks will be available to each person for free.
You can visit CDC’s Find Free Masks (N95 Respirators) webpage where you can enter your zip code to find free respirators at participating locations.
You can also visit Vaccines.gov to find pharmacies near you that are distributing free masks.
Where can I find guidance on cleaning and disinfecting surfaces in my home? (Last updated 1/24/22)In most situations, cleaning alone with a household cleaner that contains soap or detergent removes most virus particles on surfaces. You should clean AND disinfect to reduce transmission of COVID-19 when someone in your home is sick or if someone who is positive for COVID-19 has been in your home within the last 24 hours. Please see CDC’s guidance on cleaning and disinfecting your home.
Can portable HEPA filters be used to protect my household, while I am recovering from COVID-19? (Last updated 4/28/22)Portable air cleaners (also known as air sanitizers or purifiers) can help get clean air delivered by using a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter. A HEPA filter is a type of mechanical air filter that can likely remove at least 99.7% of dust, pollen, mold, bacteria, and small airborne particles.
When used properly, portable air cleaners and HEPA filters can help reduce numbers of viruses and other airborne contaminants. Portable HEPA filters may be especially helpful when you cannot let in outdoor air without compromising indoor comfort (temperature or humidity), or when outdoor air pollution is high. Portable air cleaners and HEPA filters can be used along with other best practices recommended by CDC and VDH, as part of a plan to protect households. But by itself, portable air cleaning or HEPA filtration is not enough to protect people from exposure to the virus that causes COVID-19. It is important to stay up to date on COVID-19 vaccines and use other prevention measures.
The VDH fact sheet has information on how to improve ventilation, to reduce the risk of COVID-19 spread indoors.
You can view the CDC Interactive Ventilation Tool to see how particle levels change indoors, as you adjust ventilation settings.
Additional household precautions and other best practices recommended are available:
Caring for Someone with COVID-19
The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) provides information about Air Cleaners, HVAC Filters, and Coronavirus (COVID-19) and also provides a Guide to Air Cleaners in the Home
How can I improve ventilation in my building or place of residence? (Last updated 4/28/22)SARS-CoV-2 viral particles spread between people more easily indoors than outdoors. Ask experienced heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) professionals when considering changes to HVAC systems and equipment.
Ways to improve ventilation indoors are available on the CDC website.
More detailed information about improving ventilation can be found on CDC’s Ventilation in Buildings page. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) also issued guidance in March 2022 (Clean Air in Buildings Challenge: Guidance to Help Building Owners and Operators Improve Indoor Air Quality and Protect Public Health).
The VDH fact sheet has information on how to improve ventilation, to reduce the risk of COVID-19 spread indoors.
You can also view the CDC Interactive Ventilation Tool where you can create different scenarios by selecting options, to see how particle levels change indoors, as you adjust ventilation settings.
Exposure to COVID-19
What are risk factors for COVID-19 exposure? (Last updated 8/22/22)Certain factors can increase or decrease your risk of being exposed to COVID-19. These include:
- Length of time: how long were you around the infected person?
- Coughing or heavy breathing: was the infected person coughing, singing, shouting, or breathing heavily?
- Symptoms: Did the infected person have symptoms at the time?
- Masks: Were you or the infected person or both wearing a respirator (for example, N95) or high-quality mask?
- Ventilation and filtration: How well-ventilated was the space where you were exposed?
- Distance: How close was the infected person to you?
For more information visit VDH’s what to do if you've been exposed to COVID-19. CDC has a fact sheet with Recommendations for COVID-19 Close Contacts.
If I am a close contact of a person with COVID-19, what should I do? (Last updated 8/29/22)Wearing a mask for 10 days after exposure may help reduce the risk of spreading COVID-19 to others.
- Day 0 is the day of your last exposure to someone with COVID-19.
- Day 1 is the first full day after your last exposure.
If you have been exposed, and if you choose to, get tested on Day 6.
- If you already had COVID-19 within the past 90 days, see specific testing recommendations.
Continue wearing a mask when around others inside your home or indoors in public until day 10.
For more information on what you should do if you have been exposed to COVID-19, visit the VDH Exposure to COVID-19 Website.
Illness from COVID-19
What are COVID-19 symptoms? (Last updated 9/3/21)People with COVID-19 might not have any symptoms. If they do have symptoms, these can range from mild to severe.
Symptoms can include:
- Fever
- Chills
- Cough
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Fatigue (feeling very tired)
- Muscle or body aches
- Diarrhea
- Headache
- Sore throat
- New loss or change in taste or smell
- Stuffy or runny nose, and
- Nausea or vomiting
This list does not include all possible symptoms of COVID-19. See the list of symptoms on the CDC website.
Because COVID-19 symptoms can look different in different people, it is important to get tested and/or speak to your healthcare provider if you have any concerns about your symptoms. You can use the Coronavirus Self-Checker to help you decide when to seek testing or medical care.
How do the symptoms of COVID-19 compare to other common illnesses?VDH created a chart comparing the symptoms of seasonal allergies, the common cold, strep throat, flu, and COVID-19.
If you have concerning symptoms, you should stay home and contact your healthcare provider for evaluation, treatment, and possible testing.
What should I do if I have a positive test for COVID-19 or if I was instructed to isolate (stay home)? (Last updated 8/30/22)If you have confirmed or suspected COVID-19, you should self-isolate (stay home and away from others) This applies when you have a positive COVID-19 test – even if you have been vaccinated and even if you do not have symptoms. It also applies to when you have symptoms and are waiting on a test result or are unable to get tested.
Stay home for at least 5 days (Days 0–5)
- If you have symptoms, count the day that your first symptom appeared as Day 0
- If you do not have symptoms, count the day that you got tested as Day 0
During isolation at home:
- Monitor your health and contact your healthcare provider if your symptoms worsen
- Separate yourself from other people and pets as much as possible
- Wear a high-quality mask if you cannot separate from others
- Stay in a separate “sick room” and use a separate bathroom, if possible
- Do not go to public settings or travel
- Take steps to improve air ventilation at home, if possible
If you have COVID-19 symptoms, you can end isolation (leave your home) after Day 5 if these things have happened:
- At least 5 full days have passed since symptoms first appeared, and
- You are fever-free for 24 hours without fever-reducing medication, and
- Your other symptoms have improved
- Note that loss of taste and smell might persist for weeks or months and this should not delay the end of isolation.
If you did not have COVID-19 symptoms, you can end isolation (leave your home) after Day 5 if at least 5 full days have passed since you were tested
If you did not have COVID-19 symptoms, you can end isolation (leave your home) after Day 5 if at least 5 full days have passed since you were testedtested
If you end isolation after Day 5, you should still follow these steps on Days 6–10:
- Wear a high-quality mask around others at home and in public. Visit CDC’s website to see how you might be able to stop wearing a mask earlier.
- Do not travel, avoid people who have weakened immune systems or who are at high risk for severe COVID-19, avoid places where you are unable to wear a mask, and avoid other people when you are eating.
This is based on CDC guidance for Isolation. This VDH guidance applies to general community settings, including K-12 schools, colleges and universities, and workplaces. Child care facilities may apply this guidance for children ages 2 years and older and staff who can consistently and correctly wear well-fitting masks. It does not apply to healthcare facilities or high-risk congregate settings (e.g., correctional and detention facilities, homeless shelters, or cruise ships). People with severe COVID-19 or weakened immune systems might need to isolate (stay home) longer than 10 days. They should talk with their healthcare provider about when it is safe to be around others.
Who is at risk for serious illness from COVID-19? (Last updated 1/13/23)These groups, or people that fit into more than one of these groups, are at higher risk for developing severe illness:
- Older people
- People living in a nursing home or long-term care facility
- People with weakened immune systems
- People of any age with certain medical conditions and disabilities
- People from racial and ethnic minority groups
For more information about who is at risk for serious illness, visit CDC's Factors That Affect Your Risk of Getting Very Sick From COVID-19.
Where can I find more information about symptoms and illness associated with COVID-19? (Last updated 8/30/22)Check out the following website(s):
VDH What to do if you have confirmed or suspected coronavirus disease (COVID-19)?
VDH When Is It Safe to be Around Others: Isolation and When to End Isolation
CDC also provides easy to read materials:
Long COVID
What is Long COVID? (Last Updated 11/19/22)Long COVID is also known as post-COVID conditions. Long COVID is a range of symptoms that can last for weeks or months after first being infected with the SARS-CoV-2 virus that causes COVID-19. Less often, Long COVID symptoms can also appear for the first time weeks after initial infection. Long COVID can happen to anyone who has had COVID-19, even if their illness was mild, or even if they had no symptoms when they were first infected. People with long COVID report experiencing different combinations of the following symptoms:
- Tiredness or fatigue
- Difficulty thinking or concentrating (sometimes referred to as “brain fog”)
- Headache
- Loss of smell or taste
- Dizziness on standing
- Fast-beating or pounding heart (also known as heart palpitations)
- Chest pain
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- Cough
- Joint or muscle pain
- Depression or anxiety
- Fever
Some of these symptoms can get worse after physical or mental activities.
More information on long-term effects of COVID-19 illness can be found on CDC’s Post-COVID Conditions website. The National Institutes of Health also provides information on Long COVID.
The World Health Organization (WHO) developed a clinical case definition of post COVID-19 condition in October 2021, stating that the condition is “usually 3 months from the onset of COVID-19 with symptoms and that last for at least 2 months and cannot be explained by an alternative diagnosis.”
How can Long COVID be prevented? (Last updated 3/13/23)First, avoiding a COVID-19 exposure or infection in the first place is 100% effective in preventing Long COVID.
In addition, people who are up to date with COVID-19 vaccination are less likely to get COVID-19 so are therefore less likely to get Long COVID.
Also, even people who get Long COVID after being vaccinated are still partly (30-50%) protected from Long COVID even if they get a breakthrough infection.
Finally, information from new data still being studied seems to indicate that being treated with Paxlovid (nirmatrelvir) in the first 5 days after COVID-19 symptoms begin can also provide some Long COVID prevention benefit.
How can Long COVID be treated? (Last updated 1/19/23)At the moment, although many possible Long COVID treatments are being studied, so far, no specific drug, vaccine, or other treatment for Long COVID has been found to be effective. A major NIH-sponsored study of Paxlovid as a treatment for Long COVID is now underway but results are not expected until early 2024.
However, as noted by CDC, “people experiencing post-COVID conditions can seek care from a healthcare provider to come up with a personal medical management plan that can help improve their symptoms and quality of life”. Additional information can be found on CDC’s Post-COVID Conditions website.
Are there clinics in Virginia specifically dedicated to diagnosing and caring for people with post COVID-19 conditions? (Last updated 12/13/22)Most post-COVID conditions can be diagnosed and managed by primary care providers. If needed, specialty care providers and support services (e.g., occupational therapy, physical therapy, social work) can work with people with this condition to help them rehabilitate and regain their strength and abilities. Healthcare professionals may also consider referral to post-COVID care centers for additional care.
There are a number of post-COVID care centers (PCCC) in Virginia and surrounding states. The following list may not include all centers. VDH does not recommend or endorse specific clinics.
INOVA Post COVID-19 Recovery and Rehabilitation (Northern Virginia)
UVA COVID and Special Pathogens clinic; by appointment only; requires referral from a healthcare provider (Charlottesville, VA)
Sheltering Arms Post-COVID-19 (coronavirus) rehabilitation (Mechanicsville, VA)
Centra Health Post-COVID Recovery Care Program (Lynchburg, VA)
Sentara Heart Hospital Post-COVID Clinic (Norfolk, VA)
For more locations and additional contact information, visit the Survivor Corps website (www.survivorcorps.com).
Can “Long COVID” occur in people who are up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines? (Last updated 5/26/22)Yes. However, being up to date with COVID-19 vaccination reduces the risk of getting Long COVID.
The extent of protection from Long COVID with vaccination is uncertain. Among people who do get COVID-19 disease, recent information from a large British study suggests that, compared to vaccinated people who get breakthrough COVID-19 infections, about twice as many unvaccinated people who get COVID-19 have symptoms lasting more than 28 days. Another large study suggests that vaccines offer less protection against long term symptoms than previously expected. This is an evolving area of research. Additional studies will be needed to clarify the ultimate burden of “Long COVID” in vaccine breakthrough cases.
Can “Long COVID” occur in children? (Last updated 7/8/22)Yes. According to a large review, 1 in 4 children with COVID-19 symptoms develop "Long COVID”. The most common reported symptoms were mood symptoms, fatigue, and sleep disorders.
Are there clinics in Virginia specifically dedicated to post COVID-19 conditions? (Last updated 7/8/21)Most post-COVID conditions can be diagnosed and managed by primary care providers. If needed, specialty care providers and support services (e.g., occupational therapy, physical therapy, social work) can work with people with this condition to help them rehabilitate and regain their strength and abilities. Healthcare professionals may also consider referral to post-COVID care centers for additional care.
There are a number of post-COVID care centers (PCCC) in Virginia. The following list may not include all centers. VDH does not recommend or endorse specific clinics.
INOVA Post COVID-19 Recovery and Rehabilitation (Northern Virginia)
UVA Post COVID clinic (Charlottesville, VA)
Sheltering Arms Post-COVID-19 (coronavirus) rehabilitation (Mechanicsville, VA)
Centra Health Post-COVID Recovery Care Program (Lynchburg, VA)
Sentara Heart Hospital Post-COVID Clinic (Norfolk, VA)
The VCU Health Long COVID-19 Clinic (Richmond, VA)
Treatment for COVID-19
How can someone who needs a COVID-19 test or tests positive for COVID-19 get treatment if they do not have a primary care provider? (Last updated 9/27/22)The federal government offers the COVID-19 Test to Treat Program. Through this program, people can find local sites (see locator tool) where they can obtain COVID-19 testing, a medical evaluation by a physician or provider, a prescription for medication to treat COVID-19 if appropriate, and a place to fill the prescription. People can also call the Test to Treat Program at 800-232-0233 (TTY 888-720-7489).
Are COVID-19 treatments free? (Last updated 3/13/23)The federal government has purchased certain COVID-19 therapeutic medications and supplies them to patients at no cost. This means that, at the moment, patients do not have to pay for the medication itself, but there may be other fees (e.g., the cost of actually giving the medicine) that a person or an insurance company would need to pay.
There are also other COVID-19 medicines, however, that the federal government does not provide for free. Similar to other types of medication, you may need to pay for the medication and other fees related to getting the treatment. Talk to your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you have questions about costs. If you have health insurance, it may cover some of these costs.
You may qualify for full or some coverage of related costs. Talk to your healthcare provider about resources that can help with prescription costs. Virginia has a large network of free clinics and federally qualified health centers that provide medical care at no cost to the patient or at a reduced cost. Information about free clinics can be found at the Virginia Association of Free and Charitable Clinics website or via phone at (804) 340-3434. A list of Virginia’s Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) is also available.
Are all healthcare providers able to prescribe COVID-19 therapeutics (medicines)? (Last updated 9/27/22)This depends on the specific medication. There are eligibility requirements, as well as clinical concerns when prescribing therapeutics. Some healthcare locations are not equipped to prescribe therapeutics. Additionally, healthcare providers may not have access to a patient’s healthcare history to best advise the individual about treatment options. A patient can be referred to a Test to Treat location where, if eligible, the individual can be evaluated and prescribed medication for COVID-19.
What treatments are available in the US to treat COVID-19? (Last updated 1/18/23)Currently, there are three medicines available to treat COVID-19. Paxlovid and Lagevrio (molnupiravir) are antiviral pills taken by mouth for COVID-19 treatment. Paxlovid is the first-line treatment for COVID-19 if the patient is eligible for this medication. Remdesivir (Veklury) is an antiviral medication given by vein that is FDA approved for the treatment of COVID-19. Lagevrio is an oral medication that can be considered for those who cannot take Paxlovid. Lagevrio and Paxlovid are available through an emergency use authorization, or EUA.
Are there any treatment recommendations for patients coinfected with COVID-19 and influenza? (Last updated 1/18/23)In the case of coinfection of influenza and COVID-19, Paxlovid or Lagevrio (molnupiravir) can be administered to individuals for the treatment of COVID-19. Neither of these medications interact with Tamiflu and can be administered together if the patient does not have any contraindications to either medication. More information can be found in this resource: Get the Latest Guidance COVID-19 Therapeutics Virginia (VDH).
What is a monoclonal antibody? (Last updated 3/13/23)Monoclonal antibodies, or mAbs, are made in a laboratory to fight a particular infection (in this case, SARS-CoV-2) and are given to you through a vein by a medical provider. They keep the virus from attaching itself to the cells. mAbs can theoretically help stop your symptoms from getting worse and may prevent hospitalization or death due to worsening COVID-19 symptoms. However, the currently circulating variant(s) of SARS-CoV-2 are resistant to all available monoclonal antibodies! This complete resistance increases the importance of avoiding exposure to the SARS-CoV-2 virus.
Are there any other medications that can treat COVID-19? (Last updated 3/13/23)Beyond the anti-viral drugs noted above, there are many products that are falsely claimed to prevent or treat COVID-19. Beyond the anti-viral drugs noted above, there are many products that are falsely claimed to prevent or treat COVID-19. (Examples might include: hydroxychloroquine, chloroquine phosphate, ivermectin, antibiotics, or steroids.) Because the benefits of these examples are unproven, tthe FDA advises consumers to be beware of websites and stores selling products that claim to prevent, treat, or cure COVID-19. If you have a question about a product sold online that claims to prevent, treat, or cure COVID-19, talk to your healthcare provider.
Regarding ivermectin, the National Institutes of Health COVID-19 Treatment Guidelines panel recommends against the use of this medication for treatment of COVID-19, except in clinical trials.
Please report websites selling products with fraudulent claims about treatment or prevention of COVID-19. If you have experienced a bad reaction to a product sold with COVID-19 claims, report it to the FDA’s MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program:
- Complete and submit the report online; or
- Download and complete the form, then submit it via fax at 1-800-FDA-0178.
- Include as much information as you can about the product that caused or you suspect caused the reaction, including the product name, the manufacturer, and the lot number (if available).
What does FDA-approved mean? (Last updated 9/27/22)FDA approval of a drug means that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has determined, based on substantial evidence, that the drug is effective for its intended use, and that the benefits of the drug outweigh its risks when used according to the product’s approved labeling. The drug approval process takes place within a structured framework that includes collecting clinical data and submitting an application to the FDA. Learn more about the FDA’s drug review process on the FDA website.
What is an emergency use authorization (EUA) and how is it being used to respond to COVID-19? (Last updated 9/27/22)In emergencies, the FDA can decide that the benefits of a drug justify a shorter authorization process for a still-unapproved medication. Under an EUA, the FDA may allow the use of unapproved medical products, or unapproved uses of approved medical products, in an emergency to diagnose, treat, or prevent serious or life-threatening diseases or conditions when certain statutory criteria have been met.
Are there COVID-19 medication shortages occurring? (Last updated 9/27/22The FDA closely monitors the supply of COVID-19 treatment and prevention medications and how potential future outbreaks will affect this supply. At this time, there is no shortage of COVID-19 medications. If you are having trouble finding these treatments, please visit the locator tool.
If a patient contracts COVID-19 again, could they receive another round of COVID-19 therapeutics? (Last updated 9/27/22)Reinfection with the virus that causes COVID-19 means a person was infected, recovered, and then later became infected again. Per the EUAs, if the patient is within the 5–7day window of when symptoms begin, they would be eligible to receive treatment again. Please note that subsequent episodes of COVID-19 are not the same as COVID rebound. See the question “What is COVID-19 rebound?” for more information.
What is COVID-19 rebound? Does it mean Paxlovid did not work for me? (Last updated 9/27/22)The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) defines “COVID-19 rebound” as the recurrence of symptoms and/or a new positive COVID-19 test soon after having tested negative. This may happen between 2–8 days after you first recover from a COVID-19 infection. Data shows that symptoms and positive test results improve or resolve without additional COVID-19 treatment. At this time, COVID-19 rebound has not been associated with severe disease progression, hospitalization, or death. The CDC, FDA, and National Institutes of Health (NIH) are monitoring these cases closely. Currently, there is no recommendation for a repeat course of Paxlovid, or any other medication for the treatment of COVID-19, if rebound occurs. Supportive care and symptom management are recommended at this time. If you think you may have symptoms of COVID-19 rebound, please contact your healthcare provider.
Where can I find more information about treating COVID-19? (Last updated 1/18/23)
Testing for COVID-19
Testing for COVID-19
Who should be tested for COVID-19? (Last updated 2/14/23)- If you have COVID-19 symptoms, you should test immediately.
- If you were exposed to COVID-19 and do not have symptoms, wait at least 5 full days after your exposure before considering testing. If you test too early, you may be more likely to get an inaccurate result.
- If you are in certain high-risk settings, you may need to test as part of a screening testing program.
- Consider testing before contact with someone at high risk for severe COVID-19, especially if you are in an area with a medium or high COVID-19 Community Level.
The CDC provides guidance on when to get tested, types of tests, positive test results, negative test results, and testing for antibodies. Visit COVID-19 Testing: What You Need to Know.
CDC launched the COVID-19 Testing Locator website, which allows you to search for free COVID-19 testing sites near you. The type of test available varies by location. Because every provider handles appointments differently, schedule your appointment directly with the provider you choose.
For COVID-19 testing information from VDH, visit https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/coronavirus/protect-yourself/covid-19-testing/.
What COVID-19 tests are available to identify infections? (Last updated 2/14/23)Two different categories of COVID-19 tests are currently available: viral (diagnostic) tests and antibody (serology) tests.
- A viral (diagnostic) test tells if you have a current or very recent infection. Two different kinds of viral tests can detect the SARS-CoV-2 virus: (a) molecular tests (e.g., nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs)) look for the virus’s genetic material, and (b) antigen tests look for specific proteins that are part of the virus. How the clinical sample is collected depends on the specific brand of test that is used. Viral tests typically use a nasal swab, throat swab, or saliva sample. The sample may need to be collected by a healthcare provider, but can often be done by self-collection. COVID-19 antigen tests are typically easy to run and affordable, but are not always as accurate as NAATs or other molecular tests. Currently, there are multiple COVID-19 antigen tests that can be completed by a person at home.
- An antibody (serology) test of your blood can tell you if you had a past COVID-19 infection. An antibody test would probably not show if you have a current or very recent infection because it can take 1–3 weeks after an infection starts for your body to make detectable antibodies.
Antibody tests should NOT be used to identify an active (current) COVID-19 illness or to make decisions about returning to work or school, traveling, using personal protective equipment (PPE), or the need to stop disease prevention measures like wearing a mask, physical distancing, or avoiding crowded or poorly ventilated places.Antibody test results should NOT be used to determine if someone should get vaccinated or boosted against COVID-19 or to assess the level of immunity a person has after vaccination. Having a high level of antibodies to the virus that causes COVID-19 might provide protection from getting infected with the virus again but, even if it does, we do not know how much protection the antibodies might provide or how long it would last. For more information about the different types of COVID-19 tests, please visit VDH’s Testing webpage or CDC’s COVID-19 Testing: What You Need to Know webpage.
How do viral antigen tests compare to viral PCR (molecular) tests? (Last updated 8/5/22)PCR and antigen tests are two types of viral diagnostic tests for COVID-19. PCR tests are highly sensitive and specific, and usually do not need to be repeated. Antigen tests are also usually accurate, but false negative and false positive results can occur. Antigen tests are more likely than PCR tests to miss an active COVID-19 infection (a false negative test result). Your healthcare provider may order a PCR test if your antigen test shows a negative result but you have symptoms of COVID-19.
In a patient with typical COVID-19 symptoms and a positive COVID-19 antigen test, additional molecular COVID-19 testing is not generally needed or warranted.
CDC’s website COVID-19 Testing: What You Need To Know provides more information about the different types of COVID-19 tests.
Where can I get tested for COVID-19? (Last updated 2/14/23)COVID-19 testing may be available at your doctor’s office, urgent care centers, pharmacies, other healthcare clinics, and community testing events.
To find testing sites in your area, visit the website Virginia COVID-19 Testing Sites. Each testing site has different policies and procedures for testing and for billing. Please reach out to the individual site for information about testing availability.
CDC launched the COVID-19 Testing Locator website, which will allow you to search for free COVID-19 testing sites near you. The type of test available varies by location. Because every provider handles appointments differently, schedule your appointment directly with the provider you choose.
If you cannot get to a testing location, you and your healthcare provider might consider using an at-home test kit. More information about currently available at-home self-tests can be seen on the FDA webpage. Contact your healthcare provider to see if one of these options is right for you and available in your area.
The Test to Treat program gives individuals rapid access, sometimes at no cost, to potentially lifesaving treatment for COVID-19. In this program, people are able to get tested and – if they are positive and treatment is appropriate for them – receive a prescription from a health care provider and can have their prescription filled all in one location.
Where can I find guidance for COVID-19 testing, if I have already tested positive for COVID-19 in the last 90 days? (Last updated 8/25/22)CDC provides guidance on if you should test, and the type of test you should use if you have already tested positive for COVID-19 in the last 90 days. Visit CDC COVID-19 Testing: What You Need to Know- Choosing a COVID-19 Test.
What does it mean if I have a positive antibody (serology) test result? (Last updated 11/15/22)A positive antibody test result means you may have antibodies from a past infection with the SARS-CoV-2 virus that causes COVID-19 or from receiving a COVID-19 vaccine. However, there is also a small chance that a positive result means that you have antibodies from an infection with a different virus from the same family of coronaviruses, such as one that causes the common cold. Having antibodies to the virus that causes COVID-19 may provide some protection from getting infected with that virus again, but it’s not currently known how much protection the antibodies may provide or how long this protection may last.
You may also test positive for antibodies even if you have never had symptoms of COVID-19. This can happen if you had an infection without symptoms, which is called an asymptomatic infection.
Having an antibody to COVID-19 is NOT the same as having immunity to COVID-19. Antibody tests should NOT be used to evaluate a person’s level of immunity or protection from COVID-19 at any time. Antibody testing should NOT be used to determine whether a person should receive a COVID-19 primary vaccine series or a booster dose. In particular, it is not recommended for people to get antibody (serology) testing after vaccination.
If serology testing is done, please speak with your healthcare provider about the type of test you had and the test results to be sure that you understand what they mean.
FDA has released information about counterfeit COVID-19 at-home tests or problematic COVID-19 tests. Is more information available? (Last updated 8/25/22)Yes, visit FDA Counterfeit At-Home OTC COVID-19 Diagnostic Tests for more information.
If you think you had a problem with a COVID-19 test, the FDA encourages you to report the problem through the MedWatch Voluntary Reporting Form.
Additional Resources
Data and Surveillance
Data and Surveillance
I am interested in where the COVID-19 data come from and what they mean. Where can I go to find this information?You can learn more about COVID-19 data sources and what data are included on all of the dashboards on the VDH About the Data page. The COVID-19 Data Insights page goes into more detail about specific data, such as Five Things to Remember When Interpreting Epidemiologic Data.
Where can I find COVID-19 case & testing data on the VDH website? (Last updated 11/10/22)COVID-19 cases & testing data are available. Dashboards are available for Cases, Demographics, Outbreaks, and VHHA Hospital Census Data.
Where can I see COVID-19 vaccine data on the VDH website? (Last updated 5/17/22)COVID-19 vaccine data are available. There are two dashboards to see data on COVID-19 vaccines: Summary and Demographics.
The Summary dashboard shows data on vaccine doses that were given to people (vaccine administered).
The Demographics dashboard shows data about people who have gotten the vaccine, including age group, sex, and race and ethnicity.
Vaccination
Vaccination
Vaccination FAQ
Schools, Workplaces & Community Locations
Community Questions and Concerns
What are the CDC Community Levels? (Last updated 2/14/23)The CDC’s COVID-19 Community Levels are used as a measure of the impact of COVID-19 illness on health and healthcare systems in U.S. counties, cities or other communities. Community levels may identify localities that are more likely to experience more severe COVID-19 outcomes in the weeks ahead. This framework is a better tool to demonstrate the risk COVID-19 poses to communities and the people in them.
Community levels are determined for every locality in the United States and are ranked as “Low,” “Medium,” or “High.” The rankings are based on information about the number of new cases of COVID-19 in a locality, how many people in that area are sick enough to require hospital care, and if the area’s healthcare system has the resources to provide care for all patients, regardless of whether they have COVID-19. Based on the community level (low, medium, or high), CDC recommends or suggests actions that can be taken by individuals and communities to protect against COVID-19. The COVID-19 Community Levels website goes into detail about these actions.
NOTE: Regardless of the COVID-19 Community Level of the locality they live in, people in ALL communities should stay up to date on COVID-19 vaccinations and should also use strategies to improve ventilation where they live and work.
When is masking recommended for use in the community setting? (Last updated 10/17/22)Knowing the COVID-19 Community Level in your area will help you know when CDC recommends wearing a mask.
- People with COVID-19 symptoms, a positive COVID-19 viral test, or exposure to someone with COVID-19 should wear a mask.
- For other people in areas where the COVID-19 Community Level is
- Low: Wear a mask based on your personal preference and your level of risk of developing severe illness.
- Medium: Wear a mask based on your personal preference, your level of risk of developing severe illness, and the risk of the people you live or spend time with. If you are at high-risk for severe illness, talk with your healthcare provider about whether you need to wear a mask and take other precautions against COVID-19.
- High:
- Everyone, regardless of vaccination status, should wear a mask indoors in public in areas where the COVID-19 Community Levels are high.
- People at increased risk for severe COVID-19-related illness should wear a mask or respirator that provides them with greater protection, like an N95 or KN95.
- People with weakened immune systems or who are at increased risk for severe illness should talk to their healthcare provider about extra precautions, like masks or extra vaccine doses, they may need.
- Based on their personal preference, People may choose to mask at any time.
The COVID-19 Community Level mask guidance does not apply to hospitals, clinics, or other healthcare settings. (Please see the next FAQ.)
These recommendations are for people aged 2 years and older. Masks should not be worn by children under the age of 2. Adults should use their best judgment in putting masks on children aged 2-4 while inside public areas.
See the VDH mask page for more information.
Do I need to wear a mask in healthcare settings? (Last updated 12/14/22)When SARS-CoV-2 Community Transmission levels are high, source control (wearing a mask) is recommended for everyone in a healthcare setting when they are in areas of the healthcare facility where they could encounter patients.
When SARS-CoV-2 Community Transmission levels are not high, healthcare facilities could choose not to require universal source control (masking). However, even if source control is not universally required, it remains recommended for individuals in healthcare settings who:
- Have suspected or confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection or other respiratory infection (e.g., those with runny nose, cough, sneeze); or
- Had close contact (patients and visitors) or a higher-risk exposure (Healthcare Personnel) with someone with SARS-CoV-2 infection, for 10 days after their exposure; or
- Reside or work on a unit or area of the facility experiencing a SARS-CoV-2 outbreak; universal use of source control could be discontinued as a mitigation measure once no new cases have been identified for 14 days; or
- Have otherwise had source control recommended by public health authorities
The CDC defines healthcare settings as places where healthcare is delivered and includes, but is not limited to, acute care facilities, long-term acute care facilities, nursing homes, home healthcare, vehicles where healthcare is delivered (e.g., mobile clinics), and outpatient facilities such as dialysis centers, physician offices, dental offices, and others.
CDC provides Infection Prevention and Control Recommendations for Healthcare Personnel
What recommendations does VDH have regarding masks, including mask types and fit? (Last updated 2/28/22)To protect yourself and others from COVID-19, CDC and VDH continue to recommend that, depending on the COVID-19 Community Level, you wear the most protective mask you can that fits well and that you will wear consistently.
When worn consistently and correctly, masks and respirators are effective at reducing transmission of the SARS-CoV-2 virus.
Some masks and respirators offer higher levels of protection than others, and some may be harder to tolerate or wear consistently than others. It is most important to wear a well-fitted mask or respirator correctly that is comfortable for you and provides good protection.
Additional VDH guidance for masks can be found on the Mask Webpage.
CDC's mask recommendations can be found on the Use and Care of Masks webpage.
Does the updated isolation and quarantine guidance apply in high-risk congregate settings? (Last updated 8/22/22)No. The guidance does not apply to healthcare or high-risk congregate settings. Please refer to the following sites for more information:
How do public health recommendations apply to private organizations or businesses? (Last updated 7/12/22)Private organizations and businesses create their own policies related to masks, testing requirements, symptom screening, or vaccination requirements for employees, customers, clients or visitors. VDH provides public health recommendations for general business (non-healthcare) settings in Virginia.
Although public health makes recommendations regarding appropriate time periods for isolation, private entities (including private child care settings) make the decisions about whether to exclude individuals from those settings for certain periods of time that may or may not align with public health recommendations.
The vast majority of organizations adhere to public health recommendations. If outbreaks occur in these settings, stricter recommendations may be employed.
For more detailed guidance and requirements for specific settings (such as schools, sports, camps, pools, etc), please see the VDH Website for Schools, Workplaces, and Communities and also CDC guidance.
I am planning a large event. Do you have any information I can post around my venue and any guidance for minimizing chances of COVID-19 transmission? (Last updated 4/8/22)Example signage is available in the VDH COVID-19 Signage Toolkit.
Schools (K-12) and Child Care
Is there VDH guidance available for K-12 schools and child care facilities ? (Last updated 11/15/22)Virginia schools and child care facilities should select appropriate, layered prevention strategies to decrease the transmission of COVID-19. School officials, together with public health officials, need to consider multiple factors when making decisions about layered prevention strategies.
Please refer to VDH Interim Guidance for COVID-19 Prevention for Students, Teachers and Staff in Child Care, K-12 Schools, and Day Camp Settings or visit the VDH K-12 Education and Child Care Guidance Webpage for more information.
Reducing the risk of exposure to COVID-19 by cleaning and disinfection is an important part of school operations. The CDC has developed guidance for cleaning and disinfecting schools and an infographic on cleaning your facility when someone has been diagnosed with COVID-19.
Ventilation is one component of maintaining healthy environments, and is an important COVID-19 prevention strategy for schools and childcare programs. Ventilation systems clean and disperse air, decreasing the likelihood that students will inhale particles suspended in the air that are contaminated with the virus that causes COVID-19. Please refer to CDC’s information on Ventilation in Schools and Child Care Programs, VDH Ventilation Best Practices, and EPA’s Clean Air in Buildings Challenge: Guidance to Help Building Owners and Operators Improve Indoor Air Quality and Protect Public Health.
Are schools and child care facilities required to report outbreaks? (Last updated 8/25/22)Schools are subject to Board of Health disease reporting regulations. Any person in charge of a school, summer camp, or child care center is required to report suspected outbreaks of any illness that might be spread from one person to another. Schools should refer to the Rules and Regulations of the Board of Health for requirements. If a known or suspected outbreak of COVID-19 occurs, the facility should call the local health department immediately to discuss the situation. The local health department will work with the facility to provide disease control and prevention recommendations to slow or stop the spread of COVID-19. Schools may also use the VDH outbreak reporting tool to report suspected outbreaks of COVID-19 or other communicable diseases.
Will a COVID-19 vaccination be a requirement for school? (Last updated 11/16/21)No, currently, the COVID-19 vaccine is not mandatory. However, the vaccine is one of the critical tools needed to reduce the spread of this virus. Having teachers, school staff, and students be up to date with vaccination, including boosters when eligible, is a critical layer of prevention and protection to help schools safely operate. We encourage you to have a conversation with your child’s healthcare provider.
What guidance is there for athletes and spectators of school sports? (Last updated 8/26/22)Schools and families should be aware that participating in team sports or other extracurricular activities, especially indoor activities involving shouting or singing, increase the risk of SARS-CoV2 transmission. Additional guidance and consideration can be found in the American Academy of Pediatrics Sports and Physical Activities Guidance..
The Virginia High School League governs athletic competitions; local school divisions may also have their own policies in place.
What should schools and child care facilities do if an individual is experiencing flu-like or COVID-19 symptoms? (Last updated 8/23/22)For more information, please see VDH Interim Guidance for COVID-19 Prevention for Students, Teachers and Staff in Child Care, K-12 Schools, and Day Camp Settings.
Students or staff who come to school with symptoms or develop symptoms while at school should be asked to wear a well-fitting mask while in the building and be sent home and pursue medical evaluation and/or testing as appropriate. Some schools may have testing resources available at school. Symptomatic people should be separated from others as much as possible; children should be supervised by a designated caregiver who is wearing a well-fitting mask or respirator until they leave school grounds.
What can schools do to protect particularly vulnerable students and employees from COVID-19? (Last updated 8/24/22)People with certain medical conditions are more likely to get very sick with COVID-19. These individuals and/or their parents should discuss school attendance with their healthcare provider. Parents should provide the school with healthcare provider documentation (HCP) of the child’s healthcare needs and treatment protocols. This includes HCP authorization and parental consent to administer medication or administer treatments to students. The CDC offers guidance for families of children needing extra precautions during COVID-19. Families are encouraged to meet with school staff, including teachers, school nurses and administrators, to discuss safety measures and establish/update a Section 504 plan. Please discuss any concern you may have with your local school division.
Schools may consider providing remote learning exceptions and teleworking options for students and staff who have been diagnosed with COVID-19 or are at high risk of severe illness (as defined by the CDC). Please discuss any concern you may have with your health care provider and local school division.
For children who require suctioning or need breathing treatments during school hours, do schools need to be concerned about aerosolizing the virus that causes COVID-19? (Last updated 8/25/22)During the COVID-19 pandemic, asthma treatments using inhalers with spacers (with or without a face mask, according to each student’s individualized treatment plan) are strongly preferred over nebulizer treatments whenever possible in the school setting.
The CDC provides guidance for healthcare settings on what procedures are considered aerosol generating. The use of metered dose-inhalers (MDIs), with or without spacers or face masks, is not considered an aerosol-generating procedure. At this time, CDC considers open suctioning of airways and nebulizer administration to be aerosol generating. However, it is uncertain whether aerosols generated from nebulizer treatments are infectious.
Use of nebulizers in school should be reserved for instances where children cannot use inhalers, do not have access to an inhaler, or for children who are in significant respiratory distress while awaiting emergency transport.
Because they are considered aerosol-generating procedures, suctioning and nebulizer treatments should be performed in a space that limits exposure to others and with minimal staff present, limited to the student and staff member performing the treatment. The staff member should use proper personal protective equipment (N95 respirator, goggles or face shield, gloves and gown). Rooms should be well ventilated or the treatment should be performed outside. After the student receives treatment, the room should undergo routine cleaning and disinfection. Routine cleaning and disinfecting of the room is adequate and the room does not need to be vacated for any period of time. A list of EPA-approved disinfectants can be found: https://www.epa.gov/pesticide-registration/list-n-disinfectants-use-against-sars-cov-2
Schools (K-12): Testing
What COVID-19 testing resources are available for K-12 Schools? (Last updated 1/18/23)VDH offers K-12 schools resources for screening testing and distribution of at-home rapid antigen test kits for diagnostic testing. All K-12 schools may receive free at-home antigen test kits to distribute to their school communities. Please visit VDH K-12 and Child Care COVID-19 Testing Webpage or email testinginfo@vdh.virginia.gov for more information.
What is the difference between screening testing and diagnostic testing? (Last updated 2/13/22)Screening testing is the testing of people without COVID-19 symptoms or exposure to identify unknown cases so that actions can be taken to quickly prevent further spread of COVID-19. Diagnostic testing is intended to identify current infection in individuals and may be performed when an individual has signs and symptoms consistent with COVID-19 or is a close contact of an individual with COVID-19. For more information on the difference between screening and diagnostic testing, please visit CDC Testing Strategies for SARS-CoV-2.
What diagnostic testing resources, such as at-home rapid antigen test kits, are available to schools? (Last updated 1/18/23)Schools may distribute test kits to K-12 students, staff, and parents to have on hand if they need to consider testing, such as if they: have signs/symptoms of COVID-19; are exposed to an individual with COVID-19; are returning to school after vacation periods; or before or after attending a large school gathering. The test kits may be distributed to members of the school community for use at home or can be administered at school per school policy. For more information please refer to the VDH K-12 and Child Care Testing Webpage and the diagnostic testing FAQ section. If you have questions, email testinginfo@vdh.virginia.gov.
Child Care Programs: COVID-19 Testing
What COVID-19 testing support is VDH providing to child care facilities? (Last updated 1/18/23)Please see VDH K-12 and Child Care Testing Website for more information. VDH is providing rapid antigen test kits to local health districts to distribute to child care facilities in their district. Child care facilities may distribute test kits to be sent home with students (age 2 and older), staff, and parents to have on hand if they need to consider testing. Examples include: developing signs/symptoms of COVID-19, being exposed to COVID-19, during an outbreak (under guidance of your Local Health District), returning to school after vacation periods, or before or after attending a large school gathering.
Child care facilities are recommended to send test kits home with parents, teachers, or staff. Child care facilities may also make it possible for families/caregivers to come to the facility to pick up a test kit for at-home testing.
For questions or more information, email testinginfo@vdh.virginia.gov.
How can child care facilities obtain test kits? (Last updated 5/17/22)Local Health Districts will coordinate distribution of test kits to child care facilities in their districts. Test kits are provided free of charge.
For questions or more information, email testinginfo@vdh.virginia.gov.
Business and Workplaces: General
How can my business ensure workplace safety and prevent COVID-19 spread? (Last updated 7/11/22)The Virginia Department of Labor and Industry (DOLI) has current guidance for minimizing the risks of COVID-19 in workplaces.
In addition, management can encourage employees to stay up to date on COVID-19 vaccines. See VDH General Recommendations for Businesses and other Establishments for additional guidance.
Further information can be found on the VDH Businesses website.
Are employees required to wear masks in non-healthcare workplace settings in Virginia? (Last updated 3/1/22)No. However, since masks can help reduce the spread of the SARS-CoV-2 virus that causes COVID-19, employees and employers should refer to the VDH mask page for current mask recommendations.
What are additional VDH COVID-19 resources available to businesses? (Last updated 9/20/21)Our resources page includes information on additional topics of interest to individuals.
Under the Businesses section, the resources available include information on relative risk levels in business settings, setting-specific resources and signage toolkits
Are employers required to report COVID-19 cases to the health department? (Last updated 4/7/22)No. However, businesses may voluntarily report suspected outbreaks (2 or more cases) of COVID-19 using the VDH online reporting portal.
Special Populations
Travelers
International Travelers
Where can I find information if I am planning to travel internationally? (Last updated 3/14/23)For the most up-to-date information about international travel, please visit CDC International Travel.
Travelers who are up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines are less likely to get and spread COVID-19. However, international travelers may still face additional risks and should follow the recommended international travel guidance. Make sure you are up to date with your vaccines before you travel internationally.
To check a destination’s COVID-19 risk level see CDC's COVID-19 Travel Recommendations by Destination.CDC recommends that international travelers leaving the U.S., regardless of vaccination status, consider getting tested no more than 3 days before travel.
CDC also recommends that travelers should make sure they are up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines before cruise ship travel. If you do decide to travel on a cruise, visit CDC’s COVID-19 and Cruise Ship Travel . These pages provide information for travelers.
You can also review the U.S. Department of State’s Travel Advisories and country specific COVID-19 recommendations.
What should I do if I have planned to travel and test positive or have symptoms of COVID-19? (Last updated 8/29/22)Anyone with any symptoms of COVID-19, who has recently tested positive for COVID-19, or is awaiting COVID-19 test results should not travel.
If you recently had close contact with someone with COVID-19 you may choose to wear a mask when around others inside your home or indoors in public until day 10. (Day 1 is the first full day after your last exposure.)
If you choose to, get tested on Day 6.For more information on guidance for travelers please visit CDC’s International Travel to and from the United States.
Are there vaccination requirements for international travelers coming to the U.S.? (Last reviewed 3/14/23)Non-U.S. citizens, who are non-immigrants and are traveling by air to the U.S. are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and show proof of vaccination before flying to the U.S. from a foreign country, if they are aged 18 years or older. There are some limited exceptions.
Booster doses are not needed to meet this requirement.For the purposes of international travel to the U.S., the definition of fully vaccinated is slightly different from the existing domestic definition. You are considered fully vaccinated if:
- It has been 2 weeks after your dose of an accepted single-dose COVID-19 vaccine.
- It has been 2 weeks after your second dose of an accepted 2-dose series COVID-19 vaccine; or
- It has been 2 weeks after you received the full series of an accepted COVID-19 vaccine (not placebo) in a clinical trial
- If it has been 2 weeks after you received 2 doses of any “mix-and-match” combination of accepted COVID-19 vaccines administered at least 17 days apart (This combination strategy is increasingly common in many countries outside of the United States)
More information on the updated definition is available on CDC’s Requirement for Proof of COVID-19 Vaccination for Air Passengers page.
Are there any other requirements or recommendations for all international travelers coming to the United States? (Last reviewed 3/13/23)On March 10, 2023, CDC canceled the Order requiring travelers 2 years of age and older traveling to the U.S. from China, Hong Kong, or Macau, and those traveling from Seoul, Toronto, and Vancouver who have been in China, Hong Kong, or Macau in the past 10 days, to show a negative COVID-19 test result taken no more than 2 days before their flight departs.
This means that starting March 10, 2023 at 3pm ET, air passengers will no longer need to get tested and show the negative COVID-19 test result, or show documentation of recovery from COVID-19, prior to boarding a flight to the U.S. from the People’s Republic of China, Hong Kong, and Macau, or through a Designated Airport.
Up to date recommendations for returning travelers are available on CDC’s International Travel page. COVID-19-related information is available at CDC’s International Travel during COVID-19.
Should I wear a mask during international travel? (Last reviewed 3/14/23)International travelers should check for mask recommendations and requirements at their destination. These may be different from recommendations and requirements in the United States. Information about mask requirements for your destination may be available from the Office of Foreign Affairs or Ministry of Health, or the U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Consular Affairs, Country Information webpage.
The requirement for all travelers aged 2 years and older to wear face masks while on public transportation into, within, or out of the U. S., and while indoors at U.S. transportation hubs, such as airports and stations ended as of April 18, 2022.
CDC, however, recommends that everyone aged 2 years and older (including passengers and workers ) wear a well-fitting mask or respirator over the nose and mouth in indoor areas of public transportation (such as airplanes, trains, etc.) and transportation hubs (such as airports, stations, etc.).
Masks should not be placed on children younger than 2 years of age, or on anyone who has trouble breathing, or is unconscious, incapacitated or otherwise unable to remove the cover without assistance.
here can I find up-to-date travel information related to COVID-19? (Last reviewed 3/14/23)For the most up-to-date information on travel advisories, please visit CDC's Travel site. Additionally, visit the U.S. Department of State website.
You can also visit CDC’s Travel FAQs for more travel information.
Domestic Travelers
Where can I find COVID-19 information if I am planning to travel within the U.S. (Last reviewed 3/14/23)Current considerations for domestic travelers are posted on the CDC’s Domestic Travel During COVID-19.
COVID-19 is still spreading within Virginia and across the United States. It is safe to travel in the U.S. if you are up to date with your vaccines. If you are not vaccinated and not up to date with your vaccines, travel can increase your risk of getting and spreading COVID-19.
If you decide to travel and want to know if COVID-19 is spreading at or near your destination, check the CDC’s COVID Data Tracker webpage for U.S. states, cities, and counties.
Get important information as you consider traveling to different cities and states across the U.S. on the CDC’s Health Department Directories page.All travelers should check with the state or local health department where you are, along your route, and where you will be visiting to get the most up-to-date information, in case there are travel restrictions, stay-at-home orders or quarantine requirements upon arrival, state border closures, or other requirements. Plan to keep checking for updates as you travel. If you plan to travel by air, check if your airline requires any testing, vaccination, or other documents.
You can also visit COVID.gov for the latest updates on COVID-19 in the area you are visiting.
Should I wear a mask during travel within the United States? (Last reviewed 3/14/23)The requirement for all travelers aged 2 years and older to wear face masks while on public transportation into, within, or out of the U. S., and while indoors at U.S. transportation hubs, such as airports and stations ended as of April 18, 2022.
CDC, however, recommends that everyone aged 2 years and older (including passengers and workers) wear a well-fitting mask or respirator over the nose and mouth in indoor areas of public transportation (such as airplanes, trains, etc.) and transportation hubs (such as airports, stations, etc.).
Travelers should follow state and local mask recommendations and requirements at their destination.
People should follow recommendations as per the COVID-19 Community Levels guidance when at their destination.
Masks should not be placed on children younger than 2 years of age, or on anyone who has trouble breathing, or is unconscious, incapacitated or otherwise unable to remove the cover without assistance.
Where can I find up-to-date travel information related to COVID-19? (Last Updated 8/1/22)Please visit the CDC COVID-19 Travel Website. You can also visit CDC’s Travel FAQs for more travel information.
Healthcare Providers
Healthcare Providers: General Questions
What are the masking recommendations for healthcare settings? (Last updated 12/14/22)When SARS-CoV-2 Community Transmission levels are high, source control is recommended for everyone in a healthcare setting when they are in areas of the healthcare facility where they could encounter patients.
- Healthcare Personnel could choose not to wear source control when they are in well-defined areas that are restricted from patient access if Community Levels are not high.
When SARS-CoV-2 Community Transmission levels are not high, healthcare facilities could choose not to require universal source control. However, even if source control is not universally required, it remains recommended for individuals in healthcare settings who:
- Have suspected or confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection or other respiratory infection (e.g., those with runny nose, cough, sneeze); or
- Had close contact (patients and visitors) or a higher-risk exposure (HCP) with someone with SARS-CoV-2 infection, for 10 days after their exposure; or
- Reside or work on a unit or area of the facility experiencing a SARS-CoV-2 outbreak; universal use of source control could be discontinued as a mitigation measure once no new cases have been identified for 14 days; or
- Have otherwise had source control recommended by public health authorities
HCP and healthcare facilities might also consider using or recommending source control when caring for patients who are moderately to severely immunocompromised.
Individuals might also choose to continue using source control based on personal preference.
For related information for healthcare settings, visit Interim Infection Prevention and Control Recommendations for Healthcare Personnel During the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Pandemic.
Note that CDC defines healthcare settings as “places where healthcare is delivered and includes, but is not limited to, acute care facilities, long-term acute care facilities, nursing homes, home healthcare, vehicles where healthcare is delivered (e.g., mobile clinics), and outpatient facilities, such as dialysis centers, physician offices, dental offices, and others.” A laboratory that only processes samples, but does not have patient interactions would not be considered a healthcare setting. Additional considerations for determining when healthcare IPC recommendations apply to long-term care settings (excluding nursing homes) are outlined in the Nursing Homes and Assisted Living Facilities section of these FAQs.
The most up to date VDH mask guidance can be found on the VDH website. More guidance on protection from COVID-19 by masks or other face coverings can be found on the CDC mask website.
Where can a Healthcare Provider find more information about COVID-19? (Last updated 10/17/22)The Virginia Department of Health regularly updates its websites with the latest information on COVID-19 in Virginia. For additional information, please see the VDH COVID-19 website for Health Professionals.
The CDC provides detailed and frequently updated COVID-19 resources for clinicians. The CDC’s Clinician Call Center is a hotline with CDC clinicians standing by to answer questions about COVID-19. Call the main CDC information line at 800-CDC-INFO (800-232-4636) and ask for the COVID-19 Clinician's Call Center.
Also visit CDC: Clinical Questions about COVID-19: Questions and Answers. The FDA website provides frequently updated information on COVID-19-related treatments, vaccines, and test materials.
How do healthcare providers report a person with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 to VDH? (Last updated 4/5/22)As required by state regulations, clinicians should use VDH’s secure Confidential Morbidity Report Portal to report COVID-19 cases as soon as they are identified. Please include in your report symptoms and other critical epidemiologic fields, including race and ethnicity. VDH personnel with access to the data are required by state law to protect the anonymity of patients and healthcare providers.
Point of Care (POC) testing sites should go to the VDH COVID-19 Manual Reporting site to register for the POC Reporting Portal. Sites that have been reporting positive POC results through the Confidential Morbidity Portal no longer need to do so once they begin reporting through the POC Reporting Portal.
Healthcare providers’ reports of positive at-home COVID-19 tests will be treated as COVID-19 cases.
Laboratory reporting guidance from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and CDC went into effect on April 4, 2022. The guidance requires reporting of all nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT) test results (both positive and negative) and all positive test results except for home tests and antibody tests. The guidance does not require reporting negative non-NAAT test results (e.g., rapid or antigen test results) and positive or negative antibody test results.
What resources are available for work restrictions and the quarantine of healthcare providers? (Last updated 1/18/23)For complete recommendations, see CDC Interim Guidance for Managing Healthcare Personnel with SARS-CoV-2 Infection or Exposure to SARS-CoV-2.
Additional CDC guidance on this topic can be found here: Strategies to Mitigate Healthcare Personnel Staffing Shortages
Is training available for N95 fit-testing? (Last updated 3/8/22)VDH periodically schedules train-the-trainer sessions for respirator fit testing. By the end of the training, attendees are able to train others in the proper procedures for fit-testing. Information on upcoming sessions (date, time, location) is available.
For facilities that need additional information on developing and implementing a respiratory protection program, VDH has posted a resource guide.
Healthcare Providers and Clinical Laboratory Staff: Testing for COVID-19
What specimens should I collect or recommend for COVID-19 testing and where can these specimens be sent? (Last updated 5/3/22)Different COVID-19 laboratory tests use different clinical specimens. Viral tests typically use upper respiratory tract specimens such as a nasopharyngeal swab, nasal swab, throat swab, or saliva specimen.
In general, healthcare providers should send specimens for COVID-19 testing to commercial, private, or hospital laboratories. VDH recommends that healthcare providers work with laboratories that use viral tests granted an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) by FDA or viral tests offered under the policies in FDA’s Policy for COVID-19 Tests. Always evaluate test performance measures. Contact your laboratory partner for specific information about specimen type, collection procedures, and submission protocols. CDC provides Interim Guidelines for Collecting and Handling of Clinical Specimens for COVID-19.
Many community testing sites collect specimens and either perform point-of-care (POC) tests or send specimens to a private or reference laboratory for testing. To find a site for your patient(s), visit Virginia COVID-19 Testing Sites. Each site has different policies and procedures for testing and billing.
Self-testing kits, also called at-home test kits, can be recommended for patients if testing at a local healthcare facility or community testing site is not feasible. For self-testing kits, the collected specimen is tested at home with a result in about 10-30 minutes depending on the test.
Self-collection kits can be used at home by people to collect a specimen (nasal swab, saliva) by themselves or from other people. Self-collection kits typically come with printed instructions on specimen collection or the instruction material may be available online. Once collected, the specimen is packaged and mailed back to the laboratory for testing.
Currently, for self-testing and self-collection kits, both prescription and non-prescription options are available. For more information about currently available self-test kits, visit the FDA webpage on At-Home OTC COVID-19 Diagnostic Tests or the CDC Self-Testing website.
When and how are patients tested through the Division of Consolidated Laboratory Services (DCLS) for COVID-19? (Last updated 6/9/22)Testing at Virginia’s public health laboratory (Division of Consolidated Laboratory Services or ‘DCLS’) or an affiliated partner is available for (1) the detection or rule out of SARS-CoV-2 using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) or (2) variant identification by whole genome sequencing (WGS) for VDH-approved testing scenarios (outbreaks, point prevalence surveys, individual or other special requests). Clinicians should request public health laboratory testing for these scenarios by contacting their local health department.
Submitters must collect and package specimens and either deliver them to a DCLS courier site, self-deliver to the DCLS loading dock, or ship them to DCLS via commercial courier (e.g., FedEx). Specimens should be stored refrigerated and shipped to DCLS on ice packs to ensure refrigerated conditions. Specimens must arrive under refrigerated conditions within 72 hours of collection with the date and time of collection present on the submission form. If delayed shipping or longer storage is needed, samples should be stored at -70◦C or colder prior to shipment on dry ice.
What is the expected turnaround time for reporting SARS-CoV-2 diagnostic polymerase chain reaction (PCR) or whole-genome sequencing (WGS) results from DCLS? (Last updated 6/9/22)DCLS Diagnostic PCR Testing: DCLS PCR result reports are released within 48 hours of sample receipt, though most are available sooner. Reports may be obtained immediately by authorized users of medical facilities and health departments with access to the DCLS Connect portal. All hard copy result reports are sent to submitters via a commercial carrier (next day delivery), Monday through Friday. Friday's positive results are faxed to submitters on Saturday.
Whole-genome sequencing testing (WGS): DCLS currently reports variant information determined by WGS within 7 – 14 days of sample receipt. The turnaround time for testing results is determined by the current workload of the laboratory, especially during COVID-19 surges. Results are reported to the submitter as a paper-copy report that includes variant lineage information for Variants of Concern and Variants Being Monitored per Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidance. DCLS additionally issues WGS results as an electronic laboratory report to the Virginia Department of Health for integration into the Virginia Electronic Disease Surveillance System (VEDSS).
Most samples received through local health departments are retained at DCLS for WGS; however, the partner laboratory network for the Virginia SARS-CoV-2 Strain Surveillance (VAS3) initiative is utilized for surveillance specimens from Virginia hospitals. DCLS can triage samples to contracted VAS3 laboratories with the goal of maximizing sequencing capacity and timeliness. VAS3 Network laboratories provide results directly to VDH for integration into VEDSS. The VAS3 network was devised to improve surveillance and representation of the regions of Virginia in the surveillance system, but not for patient level reporting to hospitals or other non-public health entities. Therefore, samples sequenced by VAS3 partners cannot be reported to hospital and hospital laboratories.
Commercial, Private, or Hospital Laboratory Testing: Each laboratory determines its own turnaround time. Authorized assays for viral testing include those that detect SARS-CoV-2 nucleic acid or antigen. Some tests are point-of-care tests, meaning results may be available at the testing site in less than an hour. Other tests must be sent to a laboratory to analyze, a process that may take 1–2 days once received by the lab.
Has FDA recalled or warned about any COVID-19 test kits? (Last updated 8/6/22)Yes. COVID-19 tests are considered medical devices by the FDA. FDA maintains a webpage of medical device recalls–this page includes recalls of specific COVID-19 test kits.
How should COVID-19 diagnostic tests (molecular, antigen, and antibody) be interpreted? (Last updated 10/17/22)Currently, there are three main COVID-19 diagnostic tests. Molecular SARS-CoV-2 and rapid antigen tests are known as “viral” tests and are used for the diagnosis of acute SARS-CoV-2 infection. COVID-19 antibody tests, which have limited utility, may be able to identify people who’ve had prior SARS-CoV-2 infection. Antibody testing is not meant for the diagnosis of acute COVID-19 and results do not indicate that a person is immune (or not immune) to the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Antibody test results should NOT be used to determine whether a person should receive the COVID-19 vaccine series (and any applicable booster dose(s)). Unless a person has a bonafide medical contraindication to vaccination, all people are recommended to be up to date with COVID-19 immunizations.
CDC’s webpages COVID-19 Testing: What You Need to Know, Overview of Testing for SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19 , and Guidance for Antigen Testing for SARS-CoV-2 for Healthcare Providers Testing Individuals in the Community provide detail about SARS-CoV-2 molecular, antigen, and antibody testing and interpretation of test results.
Is a CLIA certificate required to conduct onsite antigen testing?Yes, a CLIA Certificate of Waiver, Certificate of Compliance, or Certificate of Accreditation is required for onsite antigen testing. Visit CMS’ CLIA website for information on CLIA regulations and obtaining a CLIA certificate.
Healthcare Providers: Infection Prevention and Control
When should healthcare facilities make changes to infection prevention and control interventions based on changes in community transmission levels? (Last updated 9/30/22)Healthcare facilities should consider checking their local Community Transmission level weekly. When the Community Transmission level increases and the increase results in a change in recommended interventions, the new interventions should be implemented as soon as possible. When the community transmission level decreases into a category that leads to relaxation of an intervention (e.g., no longer recommending use of source control in all areas of the facility where patients could be encountered), facilities should consider confirming the reduction is sustained, by monitoring for at least two weeks, before relaxing the intervention.
Are healthcare facilities currently required to screen visitors and staff upon facility entry? (Last updated 10/6/22)Per CDC recommendations, healthcare facilities are recommended to have processes in place to identify and manage individuals with suspected or confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection. However, having someone stationed at a facility entrance to take temperatures and ask screening questions is not explicitly recommended.
Anyone entering the facility with (1) a positive viral test for SARS-CoV-2, (2) symptoms of COVID-19, or (3) close contact with someone with SARS-CoV-2 (or a higher-risk exposure for healthcare personnel) should be aware of the facility’s recommended actions to prevent transmission to others. Visual alerts like posted signs at entrances and communications to healthcare personnel about how to report any of the three above criteria can accomplish this.
Refer to the CDC healthcare infection prevention and control recommendations for more detail.
When a healthcare facility’s Community Transmission level is high, what are the recommendations for use of eye protection? (Last updated 10/3/22)Facilities located in counties where Community Transmission is high should consider having healthcare personnel wear eye protection (i.e., goggles or a face shield that covers the front and sides of the face) for all patient care encounters. Regardless of Community Transmission level, eye protection should always be worn when splashes or sprays are anticipated, according to Standard Precautions.
What personal protective equipment (PPE) guidance should healthcare facilities be following at this time? (Last updated 2/8/22)Given current availability of PPE supplies, conventional use strategies should be used related to PPE. CDC’s Infection Prevention and Control Recommendations for Healthcare Personnel outline what types of PPE are indicated for care of patients/residents with and without suspected or confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Does a healthcare facility have to supply PPE to visitors?Visitors are required to wear a facemask or cloth mask for the duration of their visit. In case of PPE shortage, visitors should bring their own masks. If the patient or resident being visited is on transmission-based precautions (TBP), other PPE like gowns or gloves might be required for entering their room. In such a scenario, before giving permission to visit a patient or resident on TBP, the facility should ensure that enough PPE is available.
Can HCPs still extend the use of PPE, specifically N95 and eye protection, when facilities are using conventional strategies for PPE? (Last updated 10/12/22)Extended-use of N95 respirators is recommended as a contingency strategy and not during conventional capacity. NIOSH-approved N95 respirator availability increased in 2021 and healthcare facilities should be following conventional PPE practices. Check the NIOSH Certified Equipment List to identify all NIOSH-approved respirators. More information on optimizing the supply of N95 respirators is available on the CDC website.
In areas of high Community Transmission level when healthcare facilities may consider using eye protection for all patient encounters, extended use of eye protection may be considered as a conventional capacity strategy. All other PPE should be removed upon exiting the patient/resident's room and hand hygiene performed. New PPE should be donned before entering a patient/resident's room. Eye protection should be cleaned and disinfected after each patient/resident encounter, per conventional capacity strategies. In addition, eye protection should be removed, cleaned, and disinfected if it becomes visibly soiled or difficult to see through.
Healthcare Providers: Treatment for COVID-19
Where can healthcare providers find information on treatment for COVID-19?(Last updated 8/30/22)- VDH summarizes information for healthcare providers on this page. Additional information on therapeutics may be found in the following:
NIH COVID-19 Treatment Guidelines
Coronavirus (COVID-19) | Drugs | FDA
Where can I find COVID-19 treatments? (Last updated 7/14/22)The COVID-19 Treatment Locator Tool is available to help healthcare providers and the public locate certain COVID-19 treatments. Users can enter their zip code and check the box for the specific product they are looking for.
Patients should coordinate with their healthcare provider prior to contacting a location as a provider prescription is required. Locations may require an appointment and treatment availability may be limited.
Paxlovid can now be prescribed by pharmacists in limited situations, in an effort to increase timely access to patients.
Are there any treatment recommendations for patients coinfected with COVID-19 and influenza? (Last updated 12/14/2022)In the case of coinfection of influenza and COVID-19, Paxlovid or Lagevrio (molnupiravir) can be administered to individuals for the treatment of COVID-19. Neither of these medications interact with Tamiflu and can be administered together if the patient does not have any contraindications to either medication. More information can be found in these resources:
Get the Latest Guidance COVID-19 Therapeutics Virginia (VDH)
Are other resources available for clinicians caring for COVID-19 patients?Yes. CDC maintains a COVID-19 Clinician On-Call Center which is available 24/7 and can respond to questions from health departments, healthcare providers, community organizations, and healthcare facilities. To reach the Clinician On-Call Center, call the CDC Emergency Operations Center Watch Desk at 770-488-7100 and ask for the Clinician On-Call Center. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) also responds to clinician questions about COVID-19 therapeutics. They can be reached by email at COVID19therapeutics@hhs.gov.
Where can clinicians find guidance for the management of Post-COVID Conditions? (Last updated 8/10/21)CDC provides guidance: Evaluating and Caring for Patients with Post-COVID Conditions: Interim Guidance and Post-COVID Conditions: Information for Healthcare Providers.
As of July 2021, “long COVID,” also known as post-COVID conditions, can be considered a disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Learn more by reading the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Guidance on “Long COVID” as a Disability Under the ADA, Section.
Healthcare Providers: Nursing Homes and Assisted Living Facilities (Long-Term Care Facilities)
Are nursing homes recommended to continue daily monitoring of residents for signs/symptoms of COVID-19? (Last updated 10/12/22)All healthcare facilities, including nursing homes, should have a mechanism in place to promptly identify if a patient/resident has signs/symptoms of any communicable disease. The mechanism and frequency of monitoring asymptomatic individuals is at the discretion of the facility.
What testing resources are available for long-term care facilities (LTCFs)? (Last updated 6/1/22)The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) distributes BinaxNow tests directly to specified long-term care facilities for required testing of staff. Questions regarding this HHS supply can be sent to email: hhsbinax@hhs.gov.
VDH encourages skilled nursing facilities and assisted living facilities to develop and prepare a sustainable plan for future testing needs by finding a vendor to purchase tests or contract with to perform tests on the facility’s behalf.
Are LTCFs required to notify anyone if they are operating under crisis staffing standards?If using crisis staffing standards that may jeopardize the health, safety, and well-being of residents of the facility, then nursing facilities licensed by the VDH Office of Licensure and Certification (OLC) and assisted living facilities licensed by the Virginia Department of Social Services are required to notify their licensing entity (the OLC or the DSS regional licensing office, respectively) of the conditions and status of the residents and the physical plant as soon as possible.
Is visitation allowed in long-term care facilities (LTCFs) at this time? (Last updated 10/7/22)Per the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), visitation should be permitted for all nursing home residents at all times. However, visitors must comply with the core principles of COVID-19 infection prevention and follow guidance outlined in a CMS memo (9/23/2022).
Visitors with confirmed COVID-19 infection or compatible symptoms should defer non-urgent in-person visitation until they meet CDC criteria for healthcare settings to discontinue isolation. It is safest for visitors who have had close contact with someone with COVID-19 infection to defer non-urgent in-person visitation until 10 days after their close contact if they meet criteria described in CDC healthcare guidance (e.g., cannot wear source control).
In rare occasions during an outbreak investigation when other mitigation efforts have failed, restricting visitation may be considered for brief periods of time. Health district or regional public health staff should collaborate with the appropriate regional Office of Licensure and Certification long-term care supervisor prior to making a recommendation that a facility restrict visitation.
Does the facility have to supply PPE to VDH staff (e.g., OLC surveyors, local health department communicable disease nurses or epidemiologists)?The facility under conventional conditions might supply all required PPE to VDH staff visiting the facility. However, during PPE shortage, VDH staff shall bring their own PPE. VDH staff should avoid entering a resident room without wearing the appropriate PPE.
What infection prevention and control practices should be implemented when serving a meal or delivering a food tray to a LTCF resident with a suspected or confirmed COVID-19 infection?Facilities should develop policies for safely conducting food service activities. Only essential staff are permitted in units/care areas for suspected or confirmed COVID-19 cases, and food delivery can be done by nurses or nursing assistants, if staffing resources allow. When delivering food to a patient or resident with suspected or confirmed COVID-19, staff should perform hand hygiene, don PPE (gloves, gown, N95 respirator, eye protection), drop off food, take off and dispose of PPE and perform hand hygiene. Repeat this process between each room of a resident with suspected or confirmed COVID-19.
When delivering food to a patient/resident without suspected or confirmed COVID-19 infection, staff should perform hand hygiene and don gloves, then remove gloves and repeat hand hygiene if staff has contact with the patient/resident or any surfaces that have significant potential for being contaminated with infectious material in their room.
What should a LTCF do if a large number of symptomatic residents or positive COVID-19 cases have been identified?When conducting facility-wide testing, a large number of residents might be identified with COVID-19 infection and cohorting them can be complicated and might increase the chances of cross-contamination, especially if the facility is experiencing staffing shortages. Consult with the local health department to determine the best approach to address this challenge. “Shelter in place” may be a practical solution in these circumstances if the following conditions are implemented:
- In shared rooms, the distance between resident beds should be at least 6 feet and curtains can be used as a physical barrier. However, staff should don and doff the appropriate PPE between residents in the same room.
- Increase the frequency of environmental cleaning and disinfection.
- Do not cohort residents based on symptoms only.
What is the federal government doing to help provide oral antiviral medication to long-term care facilities? (Last updated 6/1/22)On March 7, 2022, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) began distributing oral antiviral medications (Paxlovid and Lagevrio) directly to participating “Test to Treat” pharmacy-based clinics. HHS also directly distributes oral antiviral medications to pharmacies, such as Omnicare and others, that serve long-term care facilities (LTCFs). In the U.S., the greatest number of deaths from COVID-19 have been in older Americans. LTCF residents who develop COVID-19 are at high-risk for progressing to severe illness, including hospitalization and/or death. If a resident is eligible for oral antiviral therapy, it must be started within 5 days of symptom onset. Distribution of oral antiviral medications to LTCF pharmacies allows residents to get these medications as soon as possible once the diagnosis of COVID-19 has been made.
What is VDH doing to increase nursing homes’ access to Evusheld? (Last updated 8/4/22)VDH recently established the Evusheld Access Program to support skilled nursing facilities by increasing access to Evusheld, a monoclonal antibody for COVID-19 pre-exposure prophylaxis. The program provides access to Evusheld via a mobile unit and VDH staff are available to support interested facilities in coordinating a site visit. The program is free of charge for facilities and eligible nursing home residents and staff.
An Evusheld Access Program fact sheet and frequently asked questions document are available for more information.
How do CDC COVID-19 healthcare infection prevention and control recommendations apply to assisted living facilities or group homes? (Last updated 12/14/22)In general, assisted living facilities and other congregate care settings (e.g., group homes) whose staff provide non-skilled personal care (e.g., bathing, dressing) similar to what is provided by family members in the home should follow community prevention strategies based on COVID-19 Community Levels. Additional recommendations for these settings are outlined in the CDC COVID-19 Congregate Living Settings guidance.
However, visiting or shared healthcare personnel who enter the assisted living facility to provide healthcare (e.g., physical therapy, wound care, intravenous injections, catheter care) to one or more residents should follow the healthcare IPC recommendations. Also, staff providing in-person services for a resident with SARS-CoV-2 infection should follow the healthcare IPC guidance.
The Virginia Department of Social Services provides additional guidance for assisted living facilities regarding implementation of the CDC recommendations including masking, screening, and visitation in a memo issued on October 26, 2022.