Beginning September 25, every U.S. household can again place an order to receive four more free COVID-19 rapid tests delivered directly to their home. Before You Throw Out “Expired” Tests: Check FDA’s website to see if your COVID-19 tests’ expiration dates have been extended. COVID.gov/tests – Free at-home COVID-19 tests.
At-home COVID-19 test kits are also available for pickup at all Tillamook County library branches.
We are seeing an increase in COVID-19 cases and requests for COVID-19 related services in Tillamook County. Here is an update for current guidelines, availability of vaccines and test kits:
COVID Guidelines: There are two sets of guidelines, one for the general public and one for special groups not included in the general population (healthcare, group settings, corrections).1. Guidelines General Public (https://buff.ly/3sYzhet):
All cases, regardless of vaccination status or prior infection with COVID-19 are recommended to:
o Stay home until 24 hours after fever is gone without use of antipyretics and other COVID-19 symptoms are improving.
o Avoid contact with high-risk individuals (e.g., residents of congregate care facilities, persons with immunocompromising conditions, etc.) for 10 days.
o Mask when they are around other people in the 10 days after they become sick or test positive.
2. Guidelines for those at higher risk due to employment (healthcare, correctional and congregate facilities): Check with their employer to determine the need for testing, self-monitoring for symptoms, and wearing of masks. A high-risk exposure is prolonged close contact with an individual with COVID where appropriate PPE (masking) was not worn.
CDC Guidelines Healthcare (https://buff.ly/3PvxpBE )
CDC Guidelines Correctional Workers (https://buff.ly/3Pmdepx)
COVID-19 Testing: Free COVID-19 test kits continue to be available for free at all County Libraries and at Tillamook County Community Health Center’s front desk. COVID-19 testing is also available by appointment with our primary care providers, there is a cost associated with seeing a provider for testing.
COVID-19 Vaccines: updated booster approved.• We have ordered the new booster but do not have it in stock.
• The vaccine is no longer free. Most health insurance plans cover the cost of vaccines, however if you do not have insurance, a sliding fee scale is available.
• When the vaccine arrives, we will communicate its availability to the public through our website, social media, and radio.
• Look for future announcements of walk-in clinics in North, Central, and South County in mid-October.