Covid-19 Information - January 2022

COVID-19 in 2022

After 2 long years, we’re still dealing with covid-19. But there are some new twists. We now have the omicron variant which is much more contagious but may be less deadly. The number of covid cases is way up again. But the best measures for stopping the spread of covid have not significantly changed. 

The covid-19 vaccine is still the best way to end this pandemic. People as young as 5 can get the vaccine series and those as young as 12 can get the booster. If you know individuals in Chicago who are hesitant to get the shots let them know about this incentive: The City of Chicago will give each person a $100 gift card upon receiving a covid vaccine (not the booster though) through the city’s in-home vaccination program. Here’s more info:  https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/sites/covid19-vaccine/home/in-home-vaccination-program.html

Wearing a facemask when indoors around people outside of your household continues to be very important for decreasing spread of the virus. The quality and fit of the mask, however, are more important than ever. The CDC has a good guide to optimizing your mask use. Check this out: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/types-of-masks.html

Covid testing has become more widespread. Testing is essential, of course, for diagnosis when someone is sick and for testing close contacts. It’s also useful as a precaution when one is going to visit vulnerable people and in many other situations. See these recommendations and tips from the CDC

For information about where to get tested see the City of Chicago website or search online for other covid testing sites in your area. Home test kits can be purchased at many pharmacies and online when supplies are available.

If you have questions or suggestions feel free to contact Parish Nurse Marcia at 773-743-1831 or parishnursemarcia@gmail.com.