COVID-19: Testing, Vaccines, & Resources

COVID-19 variants are versions of the virus that have genetic changes. These changes happen naturally as the virus spreads. Some variants have alterations in the spike protein, which help the virus enter cells. This can affect how easily it spreads or how the immune system responds. Variants might spread more easily, evade immunity, or cause severe illness. Vaccines are designed to protect against new variants.

The COVID-19 variant HV.1 has been spreading quickly this fall.

• HV.1 currently makes up the majority of cases in the U.S., according to the CDC.
• Doctors are commonly seeing upper respiratory complaints, like sore throat, cough, congestion, and runny nose.
• Other COVID-19 symptoms, like loss of taste and smell, are less common.

More information:

COVID variant HV.1 explained

Facts about the HV.1 variant

Children usually experience mild cases, but severe ones can occur. Older adults and those with medical conditions face a higher risk. Individuals with weakened immune systems are more vulnerable. Prevention and vaccination is key to limit the spread and keep those most at risk safe.

• Visit a community-based testing location, such as a pharmacy or health center near you. These locations may offer PCR or antigen tests, and provide low- or no-cost testing for everyone, including people without insurance. 
• Talk to a doctor or health care provider about other testing options that may be available to you.
• If you are a person with a disability, the Disability Information and Access Line can help you access a test or find a test location.

According to the CDC, these are the key times to get tested.

• If you have symptoms, test immediately.
• If you were exposed to COVID-19 and do not have symptoms, wait at least 5 full days after your exposure before testing. If you test too early, you may be more likely to get an inaccurate result.
• 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.

Get updated recommendations from the CDC here.

Call your primary care provider to schedule an appointment to get your COVID-19 vaccine or booster or go to a pharmacy in network with your plan. The 2023-2024 Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna, and Novavax COVID-19 vaccines are a covered benefit for Medicaid and CHIP Members.

Currently, there are three COVID-19 vaccines authorized by the FDA categorized into two main types: (1) mRNA, and (2) protein subunit. Each type of vaccine prompts our bodies to recognize and help protect us from the virus that causes COVID-19.

MRNA VACCINES (PFIZER & MODERNA)
The Pfizer and Moderna vaccines use Messenger RNA (mRNA) technology. Essentially, using an mRNA vaccine, we trick our own cells into developing an immune response to COVID-19 which can protect us against a real infection in the future. Both the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines are given in two doses. You need both doses of the vaccine for it to be fully effective.

PROTEIN SUBUNIT VACCINES (NOVAVAX)
Protein subunit vaccines like Novavax contain pieces (proteins) of the virus that causes COVID-19. These virus pieces are the spike protein. The vaccine also contains another ingredient called an adjuvant that helps the immune system respond to that spike protein in the future. Once the immune system knows how to respond to the spike protein, the immune system will be able to respond quickly to the actual virus spike protein and protect you against COVID-19.