Parish Nurse Update: Post-Pandemic Era
In this post-pandemic era, I know many (or most) of us have resumed our lives and tried to forget the impacts of the global event. But COVID-19, the virus, is still with us and manifesting in different ways. I'd like to share some resources for navigating the post-pandemic era, in a FAQ fashion.
Question: Do I still need to quarantine, isolate, or wear a mask?
Answer: It depends! See the second page of this easy to read decision tree from the Washington Department of Health for info on how to navigate exposures, here: WA Department of Health Decision Tree
Q: Is that rapid COVID-19 test I have still good? The box says it's expired.
A: It may be still ok! See this info from the FDA on the extended expiration date of many rapid COVID-19 tests. They are listed alphabetically with convenient pictures of their boxes. Scroll down about halfway down the page to find the info: FDA at home COVID-19 Test Expiration Info
Q: What do I do if I think I have COVID-19, or I test positive for COVID-19?
A: Follow page 1 of the decision tree, here: WA Department of Health Decision Tree
Q: Do I need a Covid booster? If so, when?
A: It depends! Have you had a bivalent booster? A bivalent vaccine is a booster that is the "newer" Omicron strain mixed with the "older" strain of the novel coronavirus. If you have not, you are eligible for a booster now. If you are over 65, or with comorbidities/other risk factors, and have already had your bivalent booster, talk with your provider about when to time your next vaccine, as the FDA/CDC is expected to approve updated vaccines targeting the XBB variant for fall. More info on booster protocol here: Washington Department of Health Covid Booster Protocols
Q: Why do some people "still care" about COVID-19. Aren't we passed all that?
A: It depends! Some people are immunocompromised, so they didn't receive the full benefit of the vaccine, or couldn't receive a vaccine at all. Some people live with or take care of immunocompromised or otherwise high risk folks, who may be at serious risk of death or complications from COVID-19. Additionally, retrospective data shows that between 5-30% of patients recovering from COVID experience post-acute syndromes or "Long-Covid" which can be debilitating for many. Some estimates show that more than 500,000 people have left the workforce due to long-Covid. Since doctors do not currently have a robust understanding of long-COVID, or how to treat it, avoiding long-COVID may be a motivating factor for some people.
If you have more questions about COVID, vaccines, or accessing resources for public health, please contact me at nurse@kuuf.org
In care,
Jenn Heisleman Ingalls, MSN, RN, OCN, CNL