The following is a condensed version of a newsletter written by Dr. Katelyn Jetelina, MPH, Ph.D, an epidemiologist and biostatistician. Read the full article here.
BA.5 has arrived. An estimated 10-15% of Americans will be infected. Unfortunately, hospitalizations and death will follow, albeit at lower rates then we’ve seen before.
Here are five ways we can safely ride this wave.
If you are over 50, get your Booster shots.
Take Paxlovid within 5 days of symptom onset- prescription available from your clinician or pharmacist.
Do not use CDC community levels for masking. This only tells us when to take collective action so hospitals don’t surge. It does not take into account under reporting or when to wear a mask for individual protection.
Whenever you can, increase ventilation and filtration. The virus can spread even if you are whispering and can linger hours after someone has left the room.
Use antigen tests to help break transmission chains. These are great for detecting highly infectious people. If you have any symptoms and test negative, test again in 24-48 hours. There are very few false positives.
Many of us know more people than ever with COVID. Be careful and stay well!
To help stay well, please remember the COVID protocols we are following at First Congregational Church. Please keep these in mind as you meet and worship with us.
Wear a N95 or KN95 mask, if possible (provided at the entrance).
Remain physically distanced from people not in your household.
Please stay home if you have any cold symptoms.
Refrain from sharing food and drink in group gatherings.
