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COVID Drive-Thru Testing FAQ

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1. WHAT TYPE OF TEST IS PERFORMED AT SNOHOMISH HEALTH DISTRICT TESTING SITES

Diagnostic RT-PCR self-swab nasal tests are done at Snohomish Health District testing locations. The FDA approved NAAT COVID-19 tests are processed by a CLIA-certified lab. The Snohomish Health District does not perform rapid COVID-19 tests.

2. HOW DO I MAKE AN APPOINTMENT?

A website has been set up (click here) where people will be asked screening questions and sign up for an appointment. If there are multiple people who will be coming in the same vehicle to be tested, each of them should register. 

People who are being tested should arrive on-time and no more than 15 minutes before their appointment, and they will remain in their cars the entire time. Individuals must have an appointment and photo ID ready when arriving at the testing site. 

3. IS THERE A COST FOR BEING TESTED AT THE DRIVE-THRU SITES?

• When you sign up for an appointment you will be asked to provide your insurance information. The lab will bill your insurance for the cost of the test. Under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act insurance companies are required to cover medically necessary testing. We encourage you to review your own insurance coverage, especially if you are being tested for non-medical reasons, such as travel. Northwest Labs may reach out to you to verify insurance information or collect additional information needed for billing.
• If you do not have health insurance you can still sign up for an appointment, you will not be billed for the cost of the test.

4. WHEN AND HOW WILL I RECEIVE RESULTS?

Results will be available online with a personal identification code or QR code provided to you at the testing appointment. Use the website and instructions on that card to access your results. They are typically available in 2-3 calendar days.

• COVID-19 Testing Information: What should you do while you wait for test results (PDF)
• COVID-19 Información de Prueba: ¿Qué debe hacer mientras espera los resultados de la prueba?

5. I WAS TOLD MY TEST WAS POSITIVE/NEGATIVE, BUT HOW DO I GET DOCUMENTATION FOR MY EMPLOYER?

For those tested after April 13, your test results will be made available by the Snohomish Health District. You will receive instructions from staff on how to get those sent to you, or you can email covidtesting@snohd.org for assistance.

6. IS THIS THE ONLY TESTING OPTION?

No. Drive-thru testing expanded on other testing options, but did not replace existing testing offered by many local healthcare providers. We still encourage you to contact your medical provider by phone or online if you have symptoms. They may refer you for testing, but remember, not everyone needs to be tested and most people can recover at home.

7. ARE PEOPLE TESTED FOR OTHER ILLNESSES, TOO?

No. This is specifically for COVID-19 testing.

8. WHY ISN’T EVERYONE BEING TESTED?

We have limited resources for testing (testing kits, staff, personal protective equipment for medical providers). We have to prioritize.

This testing option is not meant to replace or eliminate other testing avenues offered by many local healthcare providers. The goal is to supplement those options in order to ease some of the pressure on the existing system.

People still should contact their medical provider for guidance and assessment if they have any of these symptoms, or other health concerns. For medical emergencies, they should call 911 and notify the dispatch personnel that you may have COVID-19.

There is no vaccine or cure at this time. Read more about what to do if you have COVID-19.

9. WHAT ABOUT TESTING FOR TRAVEL?

• Test results are expected within 3-4 business days. This is a flexible timeline depending on the lab’s workload. For those needing travel testing, we cannot guarantee that you will be able to get results in the 72-hour timeframe required by some destinations. Please carefully research the requirements of your destination state or country.
• Those needing travel testing should consider calling around to providers and labs to ask about their offerings. Our website provides a list of testing providers in Snohomish County. Check with your insurance provider about coverage for travel testing.

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COVID-19 FAQs

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1. WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT COVID-19 VACCINATION

A separate webpage and FAQ is available specifically for COVID vaccine information. Find that information at www.snohd.org/covidvaccine. 

2. WHAT IS A CORONAVIRUS?

A coronavirus describes a large number of viruses that usually cause mild respiratory illness. There are coronaviruses that have caused more severe illness, such as severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) and Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS). Novel coronavirus 2019 is a new coronavirus, first identified in late 2019, and can cause severe illness. Other terms you may see used to name this virus include: COVID-19, SARS-CoV-2, or 2019-nCoV.

3. WHAT ARE SYMPTOMS OF CORONAVIRUS?

This is a respiratory illness. Symptoms include cough, fever, sore throat, difficulty breathing, chills, fatigue, muscle or body aches, headache, new loss of taste or smell, nausea or vomiting, diarrhea, and congestion or runny nose. New symptoms have been identified over time and the CDC has a full list. 

The degree of severity of these symptoms varies. There have been many deaths from this illness. However, most cases do not appear to be severe. 

It is possible to be ill with the virus and exhibit mild symptoms or no symptoms.

4. WHERE DID THIS VIRUS COME FROM AND HOW IS IT SPREAD?

Like MERS and SARS, COVID-19 closely resembles coronaviruses found in bats but not humans. Scientists believe that the virus had a change in its genes that permitted it to spread to humans, possibly via an intermediate carrier in an animal market in Wuhan, China.

The virus can be transmitted from person to person via droplets that come from the nose or mouth, especially when we cough or sneeze. Human coronaviruses most commonly spread from an infected person to others through: the air by coughing and sneezing, close personal contact like shaking hands, or touching a surface with the virus on it and then touching your mouth, nose or eyes before washing your hands.  

5. WHAT IF I HAVE BEEN IN CLOSE CONTACT WITH SOMEONE WHO HAS COVID?

If you are notified by public health staff (via phone call) or directly by someone who has tested positive that you are a close contact of a confirmed case, you should stay home and remain quarantined there for 14 days to monitor for symptoms. Talk to your medical provider or sign up for an appointment at a drive-thru site at www.snohd.org/testing. If you develop symptoms or if symptoms worsen, contact your medical provider by phone or online immediately. 

If someone tests positive for COVID-19, they can expect a phone call from public health. They will be asked questions like date of birth, address, gender at birth, race, and ethnicity. They may be asked about where they work and their job duties, travel history, as well as the nature and timing of the illness. They will not be asked for things like social security number, financial information, or immigration status. 

Disease investigators also ask with whom an ill person had close contact. The goal is to identify people who were exposed. Public health staff or volunteers call the close contacts to notify them of possible exposure and provide guidance on how long to quarantine, what symptoms to watch for, and what to do if they become ill. Public health workers are trained and required by law to not reveal the identity of the person who may have exposed the contact, and to protect the personal health information of the people they call. 

Some people are at higher risk of severe illness from the virus, including individuals who are 60 years or older and those who have underlying health conditions or compromised immune systems. 

Workplaces may be notified by an employee that they are a confirmed case or close contact. A table with general guidance for isolation and quarantine is available online. The employer should work with that employee to ensure needed support, such as sick leave benefits or remote work options. Additional notification may be sent to other employees in the workplace at the employer’s discretion, while respecting the medical privacy of the affected employee. 

6. HOW MANY COVID-19 CASES ARE THERE IN SNOHOMISH COUNTY?

Our daily update on case counts is issued at approximately 2 p.m. on our case counts page on weekdays. 

We are updating confirmed and probable case numbers at the county level, and city numbers of total and recovered cases. Countywide data also is available through an interactive dashboard from the Washington State Department of Health that is accessible on the case counts page. Depending on the time of day you check the dashboard and the table, numbers may vary. Please be sure to check the "Data as of" and "Last Updated" note to confirm the most current number. 

Additional information is available in weekly reports. The Health District is focusing resources on activities and data analysis that are necessary for disease prevention efforts and to move through the Safe Start Plan for Washington. This includes case investigations, monitoring metrics for quality assurance of that work, and submitting regular reports to the state under the Safe Start requirement. 

The Snohomish Health District receives reports of deaths associated with COVID-19 from a number of sources. These include hospitals or healthcare facilities, other state or local health jurisdictions, the Snohomish County Medical Examiner’s Office, or through case investigations. All death data provided are confirmed either through test results done before or after a death. There could be underlying health conditions, but COVID-19 is still considered a contributing factor.

7. ISN’T THIS VIRUS BASICALLY JUST THE FLU?

No. It is true that we lose lives every year during flu season, and that many of the same strategies for preventing the spread of flu – washing hands, disinfecting surfaces, staying home while ill – are helping us fight COVID-19. But it’s crucial that you don’t mix up COVID-19 and the flu. 

Data indicate COVID-19 is at least 10 times more deadly than the average annual flu outbreak. We know a lot about the flu, and there’s an annual flu shot as well as treatment. COVID-19 is new, and there is not yet a vaccine or proven treatment. Both are respiratory illnesses and spread in a similar way, but risk of spreading COVID-19 is higher. Our community is not immune to this disease.

8. WHAT IS THE STATUS WITH SCHOOL CLOSURES?

The Snohomish Health District continues working closely with local schools and school districts to provide information and guidance during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Health Officer recommended starting the 2020-21 school year remotely with a gradual, phased return to in-person instruction that follows the Washington State Department of Health’s framework for schools. 

Students and families should continue to monitor communications from their local school districts, as well as from the Governor’s office, Washington State Department of Health, and Snohomish Health District for what the next steps are. Plans may need to be modified based on changes in the spread of disease in the community. 

More information and guidance for schools is available at www.snohd.org/533/COVID-19-Info-for-Schools-and-Child-Care.

Though school-age children are generally not considered a high-risk group for severe illness from the virus, they can spread the virus and they have contact with others in the community who are at high risk. There also have been rare cases of a serious complication in children and youth related to COVID-19, called multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children. 

9. ARE PUBLIC GATHERINGS BEING CANCELED?

Gatherings of more than 5 people outside of your household are not allowed in Phase 2, which Snohomish County began on June 5, 2020. 

As we move through the phases of the Safe Start Reopening Plan, the specific rules around gatherings will change to allow for more people. However, health and safety requirements must be followed. This includes wearing a cloth face covering, requiring frequent and easily-accessible handwashing/hand sanitizing, physical distancing of 6 feet or more between non-household members as much as possible, increased sanitizing of high-touch surfaces, and staying home if you are ill. 

In general, smaller is safer for gatherings, and outdoor is better than indoor for reducing the spread of illness. 

People who are at higher risk from COVID-19 and should take extra precautions include those who: 

• are over 60 years of age 

• have an underlying medical condition, like heart disease, lung disease or diabetes. 

• have weakened immune systems 

If you have questions about whether you are at higher risk from COVID-19, ask your health care provider.

10. DO PEOPLE NEED TO WEAR FACE COVERINGS/MASKS?

A statewide public health order requires people to wear a cloth facial covering in public. Separate statewide orders also require employers to ensure that workers are wearing face coverings and that customers are wearing face coverings. 

There is a lot of great information out there, including from the Washington State Department of Health, the Centers for Disease Controls and Prevention, the Department of Labor and Industries, Governor Jay Inslee, and Restart’s #WearAMaskWA Initiative. We encourage you to check out those resources and review the information below.

Face coverings are required in Snohomish County. The order is statewide. The Snohomish Health District supports the order.  

11. WHAT ARE THE RULES FOR BUSINESSES AND ORGANIZATIONS?

Many businesses have been approved to reopen, with modified operations for health and safety, as part of the Safe Start Reopening process. Businesses that are not considered essential and have not been approved to reopen under the county’s current phase of the Safe Start plan can continue remote operations (employees working from home, or contact-less services) but must shut down in-person operations. Businesses that are open must ensure proper health and safety measures to prevent the spread of illness. 

Allowing more businesses and activities to reopen in phases does not mean that it will be business as usual. There are guidelines that employers will need to follow through all of the phases. A brief overview is below, but more is outlined in the Safe Start Plan.

• Limit close interactions with customers. Arrange for six-foot physical distance between employees and patrons and use other measures, such as barriers to block sneezes and coughs, if distancing isn’t realistic for specific tasks. 

• Ensure sanitation and hand hygiene are available to all workers and visitors. 

• Frequently clean and disinfect the workspace, especially high-touch surfaces. 

• Follow Labor and Industries (L&I) and industry-specific guidance regarding personal protective equipment or cloth face covers for workers. 

• Encourage clients and customers to wear cloth face covers. 

• Make a plan for addressing illness, including requiring ill employees to stay home and deep cleaning if an employee tests positive for COVID-19. 

• Provide information to employees about COVID-19 and illness prevention. This could include signs or posters with information. 

• Follow any additional guidance that is specific to your industry, as provided by local, state or federal public health professionals. 

Businesses must comply with industry-specific health and safety guidance before reopening within the proper phase. The governor’s office maintains a list of guidance for industries. 

Businesses also must have a business health and safety plan in place, and they should refer to the template for creating a business health and safety plan to help create one. 

More information and resources for businesses are available at www.coronavirus.wa.gov.

12. WHAT IS SOCIAL/PHYSICAL DISTANCING?

It’s a common strategy for reducing the spread of disease. The closer the contact between people – and the more people in a group – the greater the risk of passing along viruses. 

Try to keep at least 6 feet away from others. Stay home and reduce close contact with people outside of your household as much as possible, particularly if you or someone in your household is at higher risk or severe illness. 

While in public locations indoors, or outdoors where you cannot reliably maintain a six foot distance from others, wear a cloth face cover.

13. DOES THE HEALTH OFFICER REALLY HAVE THE AUTHORITY TO RESTRICT ACTIVITIES?

A combination of Health Officer’s Orders, Governor’s Orders and State Secretary of Health’s Orders have been issued during this response. The Governor and Secretary of Health can issue orders for the state – including Snohomish County – and the Health Officer also has the authority to issue orders specifically for Snohomish County. 

First, we do not take these measures lightly. They are carefully considered and based on the best information we have about this virus and the ability to reduce transmission. We know these rules have a large impact on our communities. However, they are crucial for the preservation of lives. 

In Washington, the state Legislature enacts statutes, the Governor and state agencies enforce laws and promulgate regulations, and the courts interpret the laws. 

RCW 70.05.070 lays out the powers and duties of a local health officer. This includes: “Take such action as is necessary to maintain health and sanitation supervision over the territory within his or her jurisdiction.” These measures are put in place to maintain the health of the people of Snohomish County.

14. WHO SHOULD BE TESTED?

There are currently no restrictions for who can be tested for COVID-19 in Washington. The highest priority for testing is still people with symptoms. If you are ill with any of the following symptoms, please seek testing as soon as possible.

• Fever or chills

• Cough 

• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

• Fatigue

• Muscle or body aches 

• Headache 

• New loss of taste or smell 

• Sore throat 

• Congestion or runny nose 

• Nausea or vomiting 

• Diarrhea 

The exception is if your symptom is clearly attributed to an existing condition and is not unusual for you. For example, people may experience headaches or have limited taste or smell due to existing conditions, so the symptom is not new and they do not necessarily need to be tested for COVID-19. 

However, if you do experience one or more of these symptoms and they are not attributed to an existing diagnosis, get tested even if those symptoms are mild. Also, if you are not sure whether something is related to an existing condition or whether it may be a new illness, talk to your medical provider and consider getting tested for COVID-19. 

People without symptoms may also need to be tested. There are a number of people who do not have symptoms but should consider testing because they are at higher risk of being asymptomatic or pre-symptomatic cases. This includes anyone who: 

• Is a close contact of a confirmed case 

• Lives in a congregate setting, like a shelter, group home or assisted living facility

• Works in a location that has had a case 

• Is part of a family or social network that has had a case 

• Works in healthcare, EMS, law enforcement or other fields with a higher risk of catching or spreading COVID-19 

• Is part of a racial or ethnic group that has been disproportionately impacted by this virus in terms of rate or severity of cases (this includes people who are Black, Latinx, Native American/Alaskan Native, or Pacific Islander) 

• Requires testing for employment or travel 

• Requires testing prior to a medical procedure. 

• People also may be tested in a healthcare setting at the discretion of their medical provider. This could include pregnant women who are going into the hospital for labor and delivery, or people who will be participating in procedures or tests that may generate a cloud of droplets and increase risk of transmitting the virus.

The Snohomish Health District has been operating community-based, drive-thru testing sites with support from the Medical Reserve Corps and others partners. Information on new dates and times for testing, criteria to get testing, and how to register online for an appointment is available at www.snohd.org/testing. 

Those who are being tested for COVID-19 are to remain isolated at home while results are pending. Others who live with them but are not ill will only be required to quarantine if the test results are positive.

15. WHAT IF I CAN’T GET AN APPOINTMENT WITH MY PROVIDER?

The response to COVID-19 has demanded a tremendous amount from our health care system. The role of the healthcare system in this response is diagnosis, treatment, ongoing care, and addressing individual health concerns. 

Healthcare and dental providers may ask you to postpone non-urgent visits or procedures. They may also be providing tele-health options (consultations by phone or online). 

For people with non-COVID health needs that are urgent, such as signs of stroke or heart attack or serious chronic conditions that require care, they should continue appointments with their medical provider and should not be afraid to seek emergency care at a hospital. Hospitals are taking measures to keep all patients healthy and safe and to prevent spread of COVID-19 to any other patients. 

If your symptoms worsen, call your healthcare provider for further instructions. If you are experiencing a life-threatening situation, call 911. If you have a mask, try to put that on before first responders arrive.

For a list of COVID-19 testing providers in Snohomish County see this table on the Snohomish Health District website.

16. HOW LONG IS SOMEONE CONTAGIOUS?

Based on our current understanding of this disease, symptoms may appear 2 to 14 days after exposure, and people are believed to be contagious up to two days before they become ill. Someone who is infected is most likely to spread the illness when they are actively coughing or sneezing. 

It is possible for people to spread the illness when they have mild symptoms or no symptoms. It is also possible that an undetected case who self-isolates because they were exposed or are not feeling well could be contagious after their symptoms go away.

17. IS THERE A VACCINE FOR 2019 CORONAVIRUS?

The first vaccine to protect against COVID-19 was approved for use in the U.S. in December 2020. Information about COVID vaccination is available and updated frequently at www.snohd.org/covidvaccine. 

18. WHAT SHOULD I DO IF I GET SICK?

If you feel sick with any COVID-19 symptoms (see Question 3 above), immediately self-isolate. Stay home and away from others. Call your health care provider before going to get care and tell them about your symptoms as well as any recent travel or contact with someone who has COVID-19. They can provide you instructions for seeking care so that you do not expose others.

19. HOW IS THIS VIRUS TREATED?

The large majority of people with COVID-19 recover with their own immune response. Treatment is supportive care for symptoms, fluid intake, and isolation/observation. About 10-20% of cases appear to have severe enough disease to require hospitalization. Those patients also receive supportive care and treatment for complications of the infection (pneumonia, problems breathing, etc.). Other treatment options are being studied.

20. WHAT CAN I DO TO PREVENT THE SPREAD?

We cannot emphasize enough the importance of standard prevention steps for respiratory illness. Continue to practice those. Increase frequency of handwashing, make sure you are cleaning and disinfecting high-touch surfaces, and stay home if you are ill. All of these are key for slowing the spread of illness. 

Cloth face coverings are required in public indoor locations or outside where people cannot maintain physical distance of at least 6 feet from others. Maintaining a 6-foot distance between you and other people (social distancing) continues to be essential, and distance should be maintained even while wearing a mask whenever possible. The cloth coverings for the general public may be made from common materials at home. The public should not use surgical masks or N-95 respirators – it is crucial that we prioritize these for medical providers and first responders. 

Medical providers have specific guidance on masks and personal protective equipment and should follow that guidance. 

Please respect the orders and rules put in place to help reduce the spread of illness. We are relying on our community to do the right thing to keep people safe and healthy. 

Set up a separate room in the household for someone who is sick and clean the room regularly. Have cloth face covers for members of the household who need to go in public, and for the sick person when they need to go into other areas of the house. 

Know your neighbors or friends in the area and be ready to support each other during an emergency. Check in on those who live alone or have underlying health conditions and may need extra support. If you live alone, talk to your friends and family members about who would be available to call or message to check in on you if you become sick. 

Through all of this, remember to stay calm, prepared and informed. Check reliable sources for updates and follow the advice of public health professionals.

21. WHAT ABOUT PEOPLE WHO ARE IMMUNOCOMPROMISED OR AT HIGHER RISK?

People who have underlying conditions or are otherwise immunocompromised are at higher risk from this illness, as well as other illnesses like the flu. Avoiding contact with ill people is crucial. 

If a household member of someone who is immunocompromised is suspected of having or confirmed to have coronavirus, the CDC instructs healthcare professionals and local public health staff to assess isolation options for the COVID-19 patient outside of the home so that they are not in proximity to the immunocompromised household member. 

If you do not have an ill household member but are immunocompromised, talk to your healthcare provider about what steps you should take to protect yourself. Please follow your healthcare provider’s guidance and keep in mind that masks are not the best option for everyone with a vulnerable immune system. 

Learn what options your healthcare provider may have for remote consultations, by phone or online. This can help you get your questions answered before going into a clinic, thereby minimizing exposure to this virus as well as other illnesses.

22. SHOULD I KEEP MY KIDS HOME?

Remember that if your child is showing any symptoms of illness, they should remain home from school, child care and other activities. Whether the symptoms may be COVID, flu or a cold, it is important to take steps to prevent spreading illness to others. Parents who have concerns about health risks should contact their healthcare provider.

Also, if your child has been identified as a close contact of a confirmed COVID-19 case, they should remain home for the full 14-day quarantine period since their most recent contact with the case. If they develop symptoms, contact their medical provider and ask about testing for COVID-19. Follow guidance from public health staff and your medical provider for staying home and isolating. See general quarantine and isolation timeline guidance here.

For school-age children, please be sure to monitor communications from your school and school district regarding plans for the school year as well as health and safety measures the schools have in place.

Child cares have remained open. Child cares play a crucial role in providing care for children of workers who cannot do their jobs from home. Parents who can keep children home are encouraged to consider doing so, as fewer children at child care makes physical distancing and other health and hygiene measures easier to maintain at that child care facility.

Schools and child care providers must meet health and safety requirements. A few highlights of the requirements are: excluding sick employees from work; sending sick children home; meeting all CDC recommended cleaning and disinfecting procedures; and ensuring proper hand hygiene and sanitation are readily available to all children and staff. More information for schools and child cares is available at www.snohd.org/533/COVID-19-Info-for-Schools-and-Child-Care.

Plans may vary based on local conditions and considerations for schools and child cares. Child care providers also may make individual decisions to close due to staffing or health issues, or they may need to close or modify their operations if a staff member or child becomes ill with COVID-19. 

23. WHY ISN’T THERE A LIST OF EXPOSURE LOCATIONS?

Coronaviruses like COVID-19 spread primarily among close contacts. They are spread through respiratory droplets when people cough or sneeze, or by touching a surface where the virus has been and then touching your mouth, nose or eyes. This is different from an airborne virus like measles, where we would release locations of general exposure.

If a situation arises where we know there was an exposure and we cannot identify the close contacts through disease investigation and contact tracing, public health may issue a notice for people who were at a specific event to quarantine at home and seek testing.

24. IS IT SAFE TO DONATE BLOOD?

Yes. As with any other situation, people who are ill should stay home and should not go to donate blood. However, people who are well may certainly do so. You can’t catch COVID-19 from donating blood. In fact, to prevent blood supplies running low, we encourage you to donate blood.

Learn more about how to donate blood from Bloodworks Northwest at https://www.bloodworksnw.org/.

25. IS IT SAFE TO TRAVEL INTERNATIONALLY?

Prior to any trip, be sure to check CDC travel notices at https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/notices. The list of countries with travel notices, as well as the level of a country’s notice, may change quickly.

If you are ill, avoid travel. If you are planning trips, be prepared to cancel nonessential travel and monitor alerts as the situation changes.

26. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Visit www.snohd.org/ncov2019, www.doh.wa.gov/coronavirus or www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html. Follow the Snohomish Health District on social media (facebook.com/SnohomishHealth, twitter.com/snohd) A statewide hotline also has been set up at 1-800-525-0127, then press #. You can also text 211-211 to get updates and resources.

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COVID-19 Vaccine FAQs

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1. How effective is the COVID-19 vaccine?

There are multiple COVID vaccines at various stages of the development, approval and distribution process. The clinical trials for the Pfizer vaccine showed a 95% efficacy rate and 94% with the Moderna vaccine in preventing symptomatic COVID. That means the rate of catching COVID in vaccinated participants was only 5-6% of the rate seen in those who received placebo. There is still a small chance of infection post-vaccination. Masks and social distancing will be with us for some time to come. As with other vaccines, the more people who get immunized, the greater the community-wide protection against the disease.

2. Is the vaccine safe?

While the COVID vaccine is new, the clinical trials and vetting vaccines go through are not. The speed of the vaccine development process may make people wary, but there have been multiple layers of safety and quality assurance. As was the case for other vaccines in the past, oversight and review of the COVID vaccine authorization process by the FDA and CDC was led by panels of independent experts. Washington was also a member of the Western States Pact, which created the Scientific Safety Review Workgroup for another layer of scrutiny and expert review to this process. Learn more at www.snohd.org/covidvaccine. 

3. What are the side effects from the vaccine?

Side effects that have been reported with the COVID-19 vaccine include:

• Pain, redness or swelling at the site of injection
• Fatigue
• Fever
• Headache
• Muscle or joint pain
• Chills
• Nausea
• Swollen lymph nodes

One or more of these side effects are to be expected in up to 1-in-4 people after the first dose and 1-in-2 after the second dose. They generally occur the day after vaccination and are normal signs that the vaccine is working. You can take fever or pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen if needed, or apply a cool compress to the injection site. Contact your healthcare provider if you are concerned or if the symptoms don’t go away within two days (48 hours).

4. What adverse reactions were reported for the vaccine?

There is a remote chance that the vaccine could cause a severe allergic reaction. This was not observed during the clinical trials, but has been observed in rare cases since the vaccine has been implemented outside research studies.  Those kinds of reactions would usually occur within a few minutes to one hour after getting a dose of the vaccine. Signs of a severe allergic reaction can include: 

• difficulty breathing
• swelling of your face and throat
• a fast heartbeat
• itching
• hives
• dizziness and weakness.

If you have a severe allergic reaction, and are not still at the vaccine clinic, seek medical attention or call 911 immediately. The CDC has also created V-safe, a platform for people to share information on their side effects and reactions. All vaccine recipients are encouraged to sign up for this system to provide additional information about the vaccine’s side effects as vaccination is implemented. Learn more at www.cdc.gov/vsafe.  

5. Will the vaccine give me COVID?

No. The vaccine does not contain SARS-CoV-2 and cannot give you COVID-19.

6. How many doses do I need?

There will likely be multiple potential COVID vaccines rolling out within the next year, so be sure to check with your medical provider on the vaccine for specific instructions. The Pfizer vaccine requires two (2) doses, with the second dose given 17-21 days after the first one. The Moderna vaccine also requires two (2) doses, with the second dose given 28 days after the first one. It’s important to make sure you get both doses of the same vaccine brand in order for the vaccine to be most effective.

7. Who will get the vaccine first?

Vaccines will be given out in planned phases. The first phase will be for workers in high-risk healthcare settings and high-risk first responders in order to protect our medical and emergency care capabilities. The first phase will also include residents and staff at nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and other community-based congregate living settings where most of the individuals receiving care are over 65 years of age.

8. How were the phases decided? Can I get vaccinated sooner?

Snohomish County’s framework for the phased approach to COVID-19 vaccination is aligned with the Washington State Department of Health (DOH) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP). It is important that the framework is consistent across the state and between counties to ensure that the roll-out of the vaccine is efficient, understandable, and equitable. 

While we have received inquiries from organizations, employers or individuals that are interested in being vaccinated earlier in the framework, we do not anticipate adjusting the phases locally in such a way that they would vary from what is adopted by the state Department of Health. 

9. How do I know if a message or email offering vaccination options is legitimate?

There are, unfortunately, already scams circulating related to COVID-19 vaccine. Know how to spot vaccine scams. Remember that there are no pre-payments required to “get in line” for vaccination, you cannot pay for early access, vaccines are not available for purchase online, and vaccines must be administered by licensed medical professionals. Most people are expected to be vaccinated by their regular healthcare provider. Turn to your doctor, clinic, or other reliable sources if you are uncertain whether a message or email about COVID vaccine is legitimate. If you receive a vaccination-related communication from someone other than your health care provider, health insurance provider, or employer, you have reason to be suspicious.

You can check back at www.snohd.org/covidvaccine for additional tools to find reliable vaccination options in Snohomish County. These will be added as they become available. You can also reach the Snohomish Health District COVID call center at 425-339-5278 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on weekdays.

10. When will I get vaccinated?

For most Snohomish County residents, the vaccine is expected to be administered through the existing healthcare system. Connecting to a primary care provider will help to have a smooth pathway to being vaccinated when your turn comes further down the line. If you are not already connected to primary care, now is a good time to work on finding a primary care provider. 

If you do not have a primary care provider, are struggling to access healthcare, or do not have insurance, there are resources available. Find information about insurance at www.hca.wa.gov or www.wahealthplanfinder.org. You can also call 2-1-1 for help connecting with health and human services in the community.

Those eligible for Phase 1a should be contacted by their employer or agency. Check www.snohd.org/covidvaccine for updates. 

11. Who should get the vaccine?

The FDA has authorized the Pfizer vaccine for individuals 16 years of age or older and the Moderna vaccine for those 18 years of age or older. Tell your vaccine provider about all of your medical conditions. You should not get the vaccine if you have had a severe allergic reaction after a previous dose of the same vaccine, or a severe allergic reaction to any ingredient of this vaccine.

12. If I had COVID, should I still get vaccinated?

Yes, when you are eligible to get the vaccine, it is recommended that you do so. We are still learning about COVID. While reinfection appears to be rare so far, it is possible to get COVID more than once. If you currently have COVID, wait until after your isolation period is done to get vaccinated. Talk with your healthcare provider for additional guidance.

13. Do I get to choose which vaccine I get?

Right now, only the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines has been authorized for distribution. As we learn more from the clinical trials, there may be a vaccine that is more appropriate for you. We encourage you to talk with your healthcare provider to know what is recommended for your circumstances.

14. Once I get the vaccine, can I stop wearing a mask?

The vaccine looks to be very effective, but it’s not perfect. Even after you are vaccinated, you will need to avoid gatherings, wear a face covering and keep your distance when around people outside your household. This isn’t forever, just for now.

15. How soon can we get back to pre-pandemic activities?

The COVID vaccine is a big step on the path out of this pandemic, but it is not an instant solution. If all goes smoothly, it will likely take 9-12 months to fully vaccinate most of the population. That’s another 9-12 months of fighting COVID with the same measures we’re relying on now. Wear a mask. Avoid gatherings. Stay home if you’re sick. Keep your distance and wash your hands. We can’t let our guard down until public health and medical professionals agree it is safe to do so.

16. How does the vaccine work?

The Pfizer and Moderna vaccines are messenger RNA vaccines, also known as mRNA vaccines. These are a new type of vaccine to protect against infectious diseases, but they have been known and researched for decades. 

To trigger an immune response, many vaccines put a weakened or inactivated germ into our bodies. Not mRNA vaccines. Instead, they teach our cells how to make a protein from the virus—or even just a piece of that protein—that triggers an immune response inside our bodies. That immune response, which produces antibodies, is what protects us from getting infected if the real virus enters our bodies later.

17. Does the vaccine change my DNA or implant a chip?

No. They do not affect or interact with our DNA in any way, and no microchip is present. mRNA never enters the nucleus of the cell, which is where our DNA (genetic material) is kept. The cell breaks down and gets rid of the mRNA soon after it is finished using the instructions.

18. What is in the vaccine?

You may see some rumors about ingredients listed online or in social media. These are generally myths. The ingredients in the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines are pretty typical for a vaccine. They contain the active ingredient of mRNA along with other ingredients like fat, salts, and sugars that protect the active ingredient, help them work better in the body, and protect the vaccine during freezing. See this Q&A webpage from the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia for more information about ingredients.

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Food Worker Cards

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1. Can I take the class and test online?

Yes. In addition to classes being available at the Snohomish Health District Everett location, the food worker card class and test can both be taken online.

2. Do I have to register ahead of time to take the class?

Pre-registration is not required.

3. When are the classes offered at Snohomish Health District?

Classes are scheduled:

• 2:30 p.m. on the first Tuesday of each month in English
• 10 a.m. on the third Tuesday of each month in English
• 10 a.m. el primer martes de cada mes en Espanol
  
  
  

4. Can I schedule a special class for a group or event that needs food worker cards?

Health District staff can provide group training off-site if desired. For a class to be offered at your location, you must have a minimum of 20 people. We generally schedule classes one to two months in advance. Contact our office to request a class: 425-339-5250 or email Food Safety.

5. How much is the food worker card?

The fee for a food worker card is $10. We accept cash, credit or debit (Visa and MasterCard) for instructor-led classes at the Everett location. Only credit and debit (Visa and MasterCard) are accepted for online classes. 

Note: The charges for the food worker cards obtained online will be listed under Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department on your bank statement.

6. How long is the food work class?

The in-person class lasts approximately 90 minutes, including the instruction and test. Please arrive early to find parking and get signed in. There is no admittance after the class begins. Allow about 60 minutes for the online food worker class.

7. Is there an age requirement for the class?

There are no age requirements for obtaining a food worker card. The only requirement is taking the class and passing the test.

8. Do I have to retake the class and test to renew my food worker card?

Yes. To receive a 3-year card, you may renew your old card up to 60 days prior to the expiration date. Expired cards are not eligible to renew for a 3 year card.

9. How can I get a replacement card if I lost mine?

You can get a replacement card (with the original test date) at the Snohomish Health District Environmental Health Division office in Everett. If you originally received your card online, you can print a duplicate. The fee for a replacement card is $10. We accept cash, credit and debit (Visa and MasterCard) at the Everett location and credit and debit only online.

10. Can I read the test to a child or student with special needs?

Yes. We are happy to meet the needs of each person who needs a food worker card.

11. I am hearing impaired. What are my options for getting a food worker card?

• We provide study booklets
• You are allowed to bring an interpreter or friend to help guide you through the test
• You can email or call us ahead of time to request an American Sign Language interpreter to come to a class of your choosing
• You can take the test and class online

12. Am I required to have a food worker card?

Cashiers, bussers, stockers, and dishwashers are all required to have a food worker card as a safety precaution. Many states are adopting “limited use” permits for these types of workers, but Washington State has yet to adopt these permits.

13. What options do I have if I speak a foreign language?

• You can bring someone to help translate the information and test
• We provide booklets and tests in 9 foreign languages that cover all the information needed to pass the test:  
  • Cambodian
  • Chinese
  • Korean
  • Punjabi
  • Russian
  • Spanish
  • Tagalog
  • Thai
  • Vietnamese
• You can take the class and test in various languages online

14. How long is my food worker card valid?

Food worker cards are valid throughout Washington State for 2 years.

15. How do I renew my food worker card?

You can renew your card for 3 years if you re-take the class before your current card expires - bring your old card with you when you take the class in person. If you renew online, bring your old card and the card you received online into Snohomish Health Department and we will issue you a three-year card.

If your old card has expired, you will only be able to receive a two-year card. You may be eligible for a five-year card if you have completed an approved advanced training such as a Food Managers Course.

16. When are you too sick to work with food?

Even if you have a food worker card, you are not permitted to work with food if you have:

• Continual sneezing, coughing, or runny nose
• Diagnosed infections that can be spread through food, such as salmonella, shigella, E coli, or hepatitis A
• Diarrhea, vomiting, or jaundice
• Infected, uncovered wounds

Sick food workers should go home or be given duties that do not involve handling food, such as taking out the trash, cleaning restrooms, or busing tables.

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General FAQs

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1. This is an example of a frequently asked questions

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Healthy Youth Survey

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1. What is the Healthy Youth Survey?

The Washington State Healthy Youth Survey is an optional, anonymous survey given every other year to students in grades 6, 8, 10 and 12. It gathers information on topics such as physical activity and nutrition, alcohol and drug use, physical and sexual abuse, school safety, and depression and suicide. The 2018 survey was the sixteenth such statewide survey.

2. Are all students asked the same questions?

There are three versions of the survey. Two of them are for 8th grade and older. The core questions all are the same, and students in the same classroom may receive different forms. The goal is to make sure the greatest number of questions can be answered in the limited time available (one class period). 

The third form of the survey is for 6th graders. It is shorter and less detailed.

Optional questions about sexual orientation, behavior and abuse are formatted so that they may be removed by schools that choose not to administer them without affecting the rest of the survey.

3. Can you trust the results?

The survey is optional and anonymous, so students can answer honestly without fear of getting themselves or someone else in trouble.

Some parents worry that students are not honest with their answers, or that they don’t take the survey seriously. While there may be some dishonest answers, the sample size is large enough to trust that, overall, the data and trends are reliable. In 2016, more than 230,000 students from all across Washington took the survey, including more than 14,600 in Snohomish County.

There also are several questions and metrics in place in the surveys to help identify and remove any that are not truthful.

4. How is the information from the survey used?

The survey results provide insight for school and health officials as well as parents and policymakers. Identifying trends in health issues or risky behaviors can help determine at what age interventions may be most useful, or whether existing interventions are working. The information also can help target limited resources toward the most pressing physical and mental health problems among young people.

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Measles

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1. Are people born before 1957 still considered immune to measles?

Yes, people born before 1957 are considered immune to measles, and providing documentation of a date of birth earlier than 1957 is sufficient proof of immunity for employees who are not medical providers. However, any medical provider - including school nurses - must have two MMR vaccines, regardless of birth date. A date of birth before 1957 will not be enough to avoid exclusion for medical providers if there is a measles exposure at their location.

2. Is one dose of MMR enough for students and staff to continue going to/working at school during the exclusion period after a measles exposure?

No. Based on recent changes in guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Washington State Department of Health, students and staff must have both doses of the MMR vaccine.

3. If someone has received only one MMR vaccine, but they have serology/bloodwork showing immunity, do they still need the second dose?

If someone provides paperwork signed by a licensed healthcare provider that says their serology/bloodwork shows immunity, a second immunization is not needed.

4. Would a recent immunization throw off a titer (bloodwork to show immunity)?

The MMR takes up to two weeks to be effective, so if someone received the MMR vaccine and did a titer within two weeks, the titer may not show full immunity.

5. If I work at a site where there was a measles exposure, why can't I just go and get both doses of the MMR and return to work?

The MMR can take up to two weeks to be fully effective. In addition, if there is a reaction to the MMR vaccine, it can be harder to determine if symptoms are from the vaccine or from the measles virus.

6. If a school staff member who is not fully immunized visited or substituted at a school during a measles exposure, are they excluded from all school buildings for the exclusion period?

Yes. Unimmunized or under-immunized staff members or substitutes that visited a school during an exposure window must be excluded from any school until after the exclusion window. However, staff at other school buildings where the under-immunized worker spent time do not need to be excluded unless a case occurs at their school.

7. I was fully vaccinated between 1963 and 1968, but my blood test does not show immunity to measles. Do I need two doses?

One dose is sufficient. However, if there has been an exclusion at your workplace (a school or medical practice), you will be excluded for the duration. Keep documentation of all vaccinations and bloodwork to show immunity in the future.

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Mumps

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1. What is mumps?

Mumps is a highly contagious viral illness. An infected person can spread it through face-to-face contact by coughing, sneezing, or spraying saliva while talking. Mumps can also spread when people share cups and eating utensils. Mumps is a condition that health providers must report to the local health department when a probable or diagnosed case occurs.

2. What are the symptoms?

Mumps causes puffy cheeks and a swollen jaw, the result of swollen salivary glands. Other symptoms are:

• Fever
• Headache
• Loss of appetite
• Muscle aches
• Tiredness
• Up to 10% of teen boys and men can experience swelling of the testicles. Meningitis and encephalitis are rare but serious complications of mumps

3. How can you prevent mumps?

Immunization is the most effective way to prevent mumps. Everyone should make sure they are up to date on their MMR vaccine. Children must have two doses of the MMR vaccine to attend school. 

Other ways to protect yourself:

• Avoid contact with anyone infected with mumps
• Don’t share cups and eating utensils
• Wash your hands with soap and water

4. Who is more likely to get mumps?

• Adults born in or after 1957 who have not been vaccinated or have not had mumps before
• Babies less than one year old
• Children older than one who have not received at least one dose of the MMR
  
  

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Preguntas y respuestas: Vacuna contra el COVID-19

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1. ¿Qué tan efectiva es la vacuna contra el COVID-19?

Existen múltiples vacunas COVID en varias etapas del proceso de desarrollo, aprobación y distribución. Los ensayos clínicos de las vacunas Pfizer y Moderna mostraron una tasa de eficacia del 95% y 94%, respectivamente, en la prevención del COVID sintomático. Esto significa que la tasa de contagio de COVID en participantes vacunados fue solo del 5-6% de la tasa observada en aquellos que recibieron placebo. Aún existe una pequeña probabilidad de infección después de recibir la vacuna. Las mascarillas o cubiertas de cara y el distanciamiento social estarán con nosotros por algún tiempo. Al igual que con otras vacunas, cuantas más personas se inmunicen, mayor será la protección de toda la comunidad contra la enfermedad.

2. ¿La vacuna es segura?

Si bien la vacuna COVID es nueva, los ensayos clínicos y los escrutinios a las vacunas no lo son. La velocidad del proceso de desarrollo de esta vacuna puede hacer que las personas sean cautelosas, pero ha habido múltiples capas de garantía de seguridad y calidad. Al igual que en el pasado en el caso de otras vacunas, la supervisión y revisión del proceso de autorización de la vacuna contra el COVID por la Administración de Alimentos y Medicamentos de los Estados Unidos (FDA, por sus siglas en inglés) y Los Centros para el Control y la Prevención de Enfermedades (CDC, por sus siglas en inglés) fueron dirigidas por grupos de expertos independientes. El estado de Washington también fue miembro del Pacto de los Estados del Oeste, que creó el Grupo de trabajo de revisión de seguridad científica para otra capa de escrutinio y revisión de expertos a este proceso. Aprenda más en www.snohd.org/covidvaccine.

3. ¿Cuáles son los efectos secundarios de la vacuna?

Los efectos secundarios que han sido reportado con la vacuna contra el COVID-19 incluyen:

• Dolor, enrojecimiento o hinchazón en el lugar de la inyección
• Fatiga
• Fiebre
• Dolor de cabeza
• Dolor muscular o articular
• Escalofríos
• Náuseas
• Inflamación de los ganglios linfáticos

Estos efectos secundarios deben esperarse en 1 de cada 4 personas después de la primera dosis y en 1 de 2 personas después de la segunda dosis. Por lo general, los efectos se producen al día siguiente de la vacunación y son signos normales de que la vacuna está funcionando. Usted puede tomar analgésicos para la fiebre o el dolor como acetaminofeno (paracetamol) o ibuprofeno si es necesario, o aplicar una compresa fría en el lugar de la inyección. Comuníquese con su proveedor de atención médica si tiene alguna preocupación o si los síntomas no desaparecen en dos días (48 horas).

4. ¿Qué reacciones adversas a la vacuna fueron reportadas?

Existe una remota posibilidad de que la vacuna pueda causar una reacción alérgica severa. Esto no se observó durante los ensayos clínicos, pero se ha observado en casos raros desde que la vacuna se ha implementado fuera de los estudios de investigación. Ese tipo de reacciones generalmente ocurrirían dentro de unos minutos a una hora después de recibir una dosis de la vacuna.  Los signos de una reacción alérgica severa pueden incluir: 

• dificultad para respirar
• hinchazón de la cara y la garganta
• latidos rápidos del corazón
• picazón
• urticaria
• mareos y debilidad. 

Si usted tiene una reacción alérgica severa y no está en la clínica donde recibió la vacuna, busque atención médica o llame al 911 inmediatamente. Los Centros para el Control y la Prevención de Enfermedades (CDC, por sus siglas en inglés) también han creado V-safe, una plataforma para que las personas compartan información sobre sus efectos secundarios y reacciones. Se recomienda a quienes hayan recibido la vacuna, que se inscriban en este sistema para proporcionar información adicional sobre los efectos secundarios de la vacuna a medida que el proceso de vacunación se sigue implementando.  Obtenga más información en  www.cdc.gov/vsafe.

5. ¿La vacuna me dará COVID?

No. La vacuna no contiene SARS-CoV-2 y no puede darle COVID-19.

6. ¿Cuántas dosis necesito?

Es probable que se desplieguen varias vacunas potenciales contra el COVID dentro del próximo año, así que asegúrese de consultar con su proveedor médico sobre la vacuna para obtener instrucciones específicas. La vacuna Pfizer requiere dos (2) dosis, con la segunda dosis administrada 17-21 días después de la primera. La vacuna Moderna también requiere dos (2) dosis, con la segunda dosis administrada 28 días después de la primera. Es importante asegurarse de que usted reciba ambas dosis de la misma marca de vacuna para que esta sea más eficaz.

7. ¿Quién recibirá la vacuna primero?

Las vacunas se entregarán en fases planificadas. La primera fase será para los trabajadores de alto riesgo en entornos de atención médica y socorristas con el fin de proteger nuestras capacidades médicas y de atención a emergencias. La primera fase también incluirá a los residentes y al personal de residencias de ancianos, centros de vida asistida y otros entornos de vida congregada donde la mayoría de las personas que reciben atención sean mayores de 65 años.

8. ¿Cómo se decidieron las fases? ¿Puedo vacunarme antes?

El Condado de Snohomish optó por un enfoque gradual por fases para la vacunación contra el COVID-19, alineado con el Departamento de Salud del Estado de Washington (DOH, por sus siglas en inglés) y el Comité Asesor de Prácticas de Inmunización (ACIP, por sus siglas en inglés) de los Centros para el Control y la Prevención de Enfermedades. Es importante que el enfoque sea coherente en todo el estado y entre los condados para garantizar que la implementación de la vacuna sea eficiente, comprensible y equitativa. 

Si bien hemos recibido consultas de organizaciones, empleadores o individuos que están interesados en ser vacunados más pronto en el enfoque gradual por fases, no anticipamos ajustar las fases localmente de forma que variaran de lo que es adoptado por el Departamento de Salud del estado. 

9. ¿Cómo sé si un mensaje o correo electrónico que ofrece opciones de vacunación es legítimo?

Desafortunadamente, ya hay estafas relacionadas con la vacuna COVID-19. Sepa cómo detectar estas estafas. Recuerde que no se requieren pagos anticipados para "hacer fila" para la vacunación, no puede pagar por acceso anticipado, las vacunas no están disponibles para su compra en línea y las vacunas deben ser administradas por profesionales médicos con licencia. Se espera que la mayoría de las personas sean vacunadas por su proveedor de atención médica habitual. Acuda a su médico, clínica u otras fuentes confiables si no está seguro de si un mensaje o correo electrónico sobre la vacuna COVID es legítimo. Si recibe una comunicación relacionada con la vacunación de alguien que no sea su proveedor de atención médica, proveedor de seguro médico o empleador, tiene razones para sospechar sobre la información recibida.

Puede consultar en www.snohd.org/covidvaccine herramientas adicionales para encontrar opciones de vacunación confiables en el condado de Snohomish. Estas se añadirán a medida que estén disponibles. También puede comunicarse con el centro de llamadas COVID del Distrito de Salud de Snohomish al 425-339-5278 de 8:30 a.m. a 4:30 p.m. de lunes a viernes.

10. ¿Cuándo recibiré la vacuna?

Para la mayoría de los habitantes del condado de Snohomish, se espera que la vacuna se administre a través del sistema de salud existente. Conectarse con un proveedor de atención médica primaria ayudará a tener una vía fácil para recibir la vacuna cuando su turno llegue más adelante. Si aún no está conectado a atención médica primaria, este es un buen momento para trabajar en la búsqueda de un proveedor.

Si usted no tiene un proveedor de atención médica primaria, tiene dificultades para acceder a atención médica o no tiene seguro, hay recursos disponibles. Encuentre información sobre seguros médicos en www.hca.wa.gov  o www.wahealthplanfinder.org. También puede llamar al 2-1-1 para obtener ayuda para conectarse con servicios de salud y humanos en la comunidad.

Aquellas personas elegibles para la Fase 1a serán contactados por su empleador o agencia. Visite www.snohd.org/covidvaccine para obtener actualizaciones. 

11. ¿Quién debe recibir la vacuna?

La FDA ha autorizado la vacuna Pfizer para personas de 16 años o mayores y la vacuna Moderna para aquellos de 18 años o mayores. Coméntele a su proveedor de vacunas acerca de todas sus afecciones médicas. No debe recibir la vacuna si ha tenido una reacción alérgica severa después de una dosis previa de la misma vacuna, o una reacción alérgica severa a cualquier ingrediente de esta vacuna.

12. Si tuve COVID, ¿de todos modos debo recibir la vacuna?

Sí, cuando usted sea elegible para recibir la vacuna, se recomienda que lo haga. Todavía estamos aprendiendo sobre el COVID. Mientras que la reinfección parece ser rara hasta ahora,  es posible obtener COVID más de una vez. Si usted actualmente tiene COVID, espere hasta que haya terminado su período de aislamiento para vacunarse. Hable con su proveedor de atención médica para obtener orientación adicional.

13. ¿Puedo elegir qué vacuna recibo?

En este momento, sólo las vacunas Pfizer y Moderna han sido autorizadas para su distribución. A medida que aprendemos más de los ensayos clínicos, puede haber una vacuna que sea más apropiada para usted. Le recomendamos que hable con su proveedor de atención médica para saber qué se recomienda para sus circunstancias.

14. Una vez que reciba la vacuna, ¿puedo dejar de usar una mascarilla o cubierta de cara?

La vacuna parece ser muy eficaz, pero no es perfecta. Incluso después de que usted reciba la vacuna, tendrá que evitar reuniones, usar una mascarilla o cubierta de cara y mantener su distancia cuando esté cerca de personas fuera de su hogar. Esto no es para siempre, sólo por ahora.

15. ¿Cuándo podremos volver a las actividades previas a la pandemia?

La vacuna contra el COVID es un gran paso en el camino para salir de esta pandemia, pero no es una solución instantánea. Si todo va bien, es probable que tome entre 9-12 meses vacunar completamente a la mayoría de la población. Esos son otros 9-12 meses de lucha contra el COVID con las mismas medidas en las que confiamos ahora. Use una mascarilla o cubierta de cara. Evite reuniones grandes. Quédese en casa si está enfermo. Mantenga la distancia y lávese las manos. No podemos bajar la guardia hasta que los profesionales de salud pública y médica estén de acuerdo en que es seguro hacerlo.

16. ¿Cómo funciona la vacuna?

Las vacunas Pfizer y Moderna son vacunas de ARN mensajero, también conocidas como vacunas de ARNm. Se trata de un nuevo tipo de vacuna para proteger contra las enfermedades infecciosas, pero han sido conocidas e investigadas durante décadas.

Para despertar la respuesta inmunitaria, muchas vacunas colocan un germen debilitado o inactivado en nuestro cuerpo. No es el caso de las vacunas de ARNm. En lugar de ello, estas vacunas enseñan a nuestras células a producir una proteína, o incluso una porción de una proteína, que desencadena una respuesta inmunitaria dentro de nuestro organismo. Esa respuesta inmunitaria, que produce anticuerpos, es la que nos protege de infecciones si el virus real entra en nuestro cuerpo después.

17. ¿La vacuna cambia mi ADN o implanta un chip?

No. La vacuna no afecta ni interactúa con nuestro ADN de ninguna manera, y no hay microchip presente. El ARNm nunca entra en el núcleo de la célula, que es donde se encuentra nuestro ADN (material genético).  La célula descompone el ARNm y se deshace de este poco después de terminar usando sus instrucciones.

18. ¿Qué hay en la vacuna?

Es posible que escuche algunos rumores sobre los ingredientes enumerados en línea o en las redes sociales. Estos son generalmente mitos. Los ingredientes en las vacunas Pfizer y Moderna son bastante típicos de una vacuna. Contienen el ingrediente activo del ARNm junto con otros ingredientes como grasas, sales y azúcares que protegen el ingrediente activo, ayudan a trabajar mejor en el cuerpo y protegen la vacuna durante la congelación. Consulte esta página web de preguntas y respuestas del Hospital infantil de Filadelfia para obtener más información sobre los ingredientes.

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Pruebas de auto-servicio

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1. ¿QUÉ TIPO DE PRUEBA SE REALIZA EN LOS SITIOS DE PRUEBA DEL DISTRITO DE SALUD DE SNOHOMISH?

Las pruebas de diagnóstico de RT-PCR con hisopo nasal se realizan en los lugares de prueba del Distrito de Salud de Snohomish. Las pruebas NAAT COVID-19 aprobadas por la FDA son procesadas por un laboratorio certificado por CLIA. El Distrito de Salud de Snohomish no realiza pruebas rápidas de COVID-19.

2. ¿CÓMO HAGO UNA CITA?

Se ha creado un sitio web (haga clic) donde se le preguntará a las personas una serie de preguntas de detección y, si cumplen con los criterios de prueba, se les dará una hora de cita y un número de identificación de prueba. El portal de registro está en inglés. 

Si hay varias personas que vendrán en el mismo vehículo para hacerse la prueba, cada una de ellas deberá responder las preguntas.

3. EL SISTEMA DIJO QUE SOY ELEGIBLE, PERO ¿POR QUÉ NO HAY HORARIO DE CITA DISPONIBLE?

Si los horarios de las citas no figuran en la lista, significa que estamos completamente llenos. Continúe monitoreando la página web y las redes sociales del Distrito de Salud de Snohomish para obtener actualizaciones.

4. ¿HAY ALGÚN COSTO POR HACERSE PRUEBAS EN LOS SITIOS DE AUTO-SERVICIO?

• Cuando se registre para una cita, se le pedirá que proporcione la información de su seguro. El laboratorio facturará a su seguro el costo de la prueba. Según la Ley, Families First Coronavirus Response Act, las compañías de seguros deben cubrir las pruebas médicamente necesarias. Le recomendamos que revise su propia cobertura de seguro, especialmente si se le está haciendo la prueba por razones no médicas, como viajes. Northwest Labs puede comunicarse con usted para verificar la información del seguro o recopilar información adicional necesaria para la facturación.
• Si no tiene seguro médico, no se le cobrará el costo de la prueba.

5. ¿CUÁNDO Y CÓMO RECIBIRÉ LOS RESULTADOS?

Esta prueba no utilizará las máquinas de prueba rápida, sino más bien los hisopos nasales regulares que se envían a un laboratorio. Se espera que los resultados se comuniquen o se den a las personas dentro de 2-3 días.

Recibirá instrucciones a su cita.

• COVID-19 Información de Prueba: ¿Qué debe hacer mientras espera los resultados de la prueba?

6. ME DIJERON QUE MI PRUEBA FUE POSITIVA/NEGATIVA, PERO ¿CÓMO OBTENGO DOCUMENTACIÓN PARA MI EMPLEADOR?

Para aquellos que se les hizo una prueba después del 13 de abril, el Distrito de Salud de Snohomish pondrá a disposición los resultados de sus exámenes. Recibirá instrucciones del personal sobre cómo recibirlos, o puede enviar un correo electrónico a covidtesting@snohd.org para obtener ayuda.

7. ¿ES ESTA LA ÚNICA OPCIÓN DE PRUEBA?

No. Las pruebas de auto-servicio se ampliaron en otras opciones de prueba, pero no reemplazaron las pruebas existentes ofrecidas por muchos proveedores de atención médica locales. Aún le recomendamos que se comunique con su proveedor médico por teléfono o en línea si tiene síntomas. Es posible que lo refieran para hacerse una prueba, pero recuerde, no todos necesitan hacerse la prueba y la mayoría de las personas pueden recuperarse en casa.

8. ¿LAS PERSONAS SON EXAMINADAS PARA OTRAS ENFERMEDADES TAMBIÉN?

No. Esto es específicamente para la prueba COVID-19.

9. ¿POR QUÉ NO SE LE ESTÁ REALIZANDO UNA PRUEBA A TODOS?

Tenemos recursos limitados para las pruebas (estuches de prueba, personal, equipo de protección personal para proveedores médicos). Tenemos que priorizar.

Esta opción de prueba no pretende reemplazar o eliminar otras vías de prueba ofrecidas por muchos proveedores de atención médica locales. El objetivo es suplementar (complementar) esas opciones para aliviar un poco la presión sobre el sistema existente.

Las personas aún deben comunicarse con su proveedor médico para obtener orientación y evaluación si tienen alguno de estos síntomas u otros problemas de salud. Para emergencias médicas, deben llamar al 911 y notificar al operador que puede tener COVID-19.

No hay vacuna o cura en este momento. Lea más sobre qué hacer si tiene COVID-19.

10. ¿QUÉ PASA CON LAS PRUEBAS PARA VIAJAR?

• Los resultados de las pruebas se esperan dentro de los 3 a 4 días hábiles. Para aquellos que necesiten pruebas de viaje, no podemos garantizar que podrán obtener resultados en el plazo de 72 horas requerido por algunos destinos. Investigue cuidadosamente los requisitos de su estado o país de destino.
• Aquellos que necesiten pruebas de viaje deben considerar llamar a proveedores y laboratorios para preguntar sobre sus ofertas. Nuestro sitio web proporciona una lista de proveedores de pruebas en el condado de Snohomish. Consulte con su proveedor de seguros sobre la cobertura de las pruebas de viaje.

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Refugee Health

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1. What do I need to make my first appointment?

• Chest X-ray taken during Visa medical examination
• I-94 card 
• Immunization records 
• Medical coverage information, if available
• Overseas Visa medical examination information 
• Passport

2. What can I expect at my first appointment?

• Blood test for communicable diseases and anemia
• Health screening interview 
• TB test
• Vital signs, check hearing and vision

3. What can I expect at my second appointment?

• Answers to any questions 
• Referral for a chest X-ray, if needed 
• Referrals to community health care providers
• Review of lab and TB test results

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Septic - As-Built Records

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1. Who needs septic as-built information?

State law requires that homeowners inspect and maintain their septic system to ensure it is functioning properly. An as-built drawing shows the location of your drain field, which is also useful for:

• Property owners doing landscaping or building
• Real estate professionals preparing for a purchase or sale
• Septic professionals doing maintenance or repair

2. What information is in a record?

Information on each property record includes:

• Year built
• Legal description
• Ownership and septic system status
• Type and location of the drain field installed on the property, if there is one

3. Where does the septic information come from?

In general, the only information included is the as-built drawing, even though additional information on the property’s septic system may be on file at the Snohomish Health District offices.

The "Property Site Information" and "Property Owner Information" sections are from the Snohomish County Assessor’s Office and are updated on a routine basis. The "OnlineRME" and "Comments" sections are entered by the Snohomish Health District Water and Wastewater program. Attached scans are from the district’s files.

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TREBLEYAR

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1. HOW HIGH IS UP?

HOW FAR DO YOU WANT? not 

2. what is the questio?

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