Coronavirus (COVID-19)
COVID-19 Fall 2023 update
COVID-19 (Coronavirus) is once again widespread in our region, and hospitalizations are increasing throughout California. Mono County Public Health anticipates a steady increase in infection as we enter the winter months. Residents and visitors are encouraged to protect their families by becoming vaccinated.
The updated COVID-19 vaccine is now available for those with insurance through medical providers and local pharmacies. In addition, Mono County Public Health will receive a limited number of COVID-19 vaccines for uninsured and underinsured people in our county. If you are uninsured or underinsured and wish to receive a COVID-19 vaccine from Mono County Public Health, please call (760) 924-1830 to make an appointment.
Mono County also has free At-Home COVID-19 test kits available at our Public Health offices.
The updated COVID-19 vaccine provides better protection against current variants, and will boost immunity. Mono County Public Health strongly encourages the updated vaccine for older individuals due to their higher risk, but the vaccine is recommended for everyone six months and older.
Recommended actions based on increased transmission include:
- Stay home if sick (when possible);
- If you must leave home while sick, wear a mask in public;
- Get tested if you have symptoms;
- Stay up-to-date with COVID-19 vaccines; and,
- Report Your Positive Test. Mono County is continuing to track positive COVID-19 cases reported from healthcare providers and laboratories as well as self-administered home antigen tests.
Additional precautions for individuals at high risk for severe illness include:
- Stay six feet away from others;
- Avoid poorly ventilated spaces and crowds;
- Wash your hands often;
- Cover coughs and sneezes;
- Clean and disinfect high-touch surfaces; and,
- Follow recommendations for quarantine and isolation.
Details on these additional precautions can be accessed here.
IF you do get sick and/or test positive for covid-19
Early treatment generally prevents progression to severe COVID-19, so do not delay testing. Everyone 12 years and older who tests positive for COVID-19 and has symptoms should consult with their primary care physician regarding treatment options.
If you've tested positive for COVID-19 and are unable to connect with a medical provider within 24 hours, please call (833) 686-5051 or visit SESAME to schedule a free virtual COVID-19 medical appointment.
COVID-19 medications Paxlovid and Lagevrio are currently free for anyone in Califronia, regardless of insurance or immigration status.
NO-COST COVID-19 TESTS
Free COVID-19 home tests are available for pick-up at Mono County Health Department offices in Bridgeport and Mammoth Lakes.
✔️ Monday - Friday: Mono County Civic Center (1290 Tavern Road; Mammoth Lakes); 8am - 5pm (excluding holidays)
✔️ Thursdays: Bridgeport Public Health Office (37 Emigrant Street; Bridgeport); 10am - 2pm (excluding holidays)
When to test:
If you begin having COVID-19 symptoms, including fever, sore throat, runny nose, or loss of taste or smell, or;
At least 5 days after you come into close contact with someone with COVID-19, or;
When you’re going to gather with a group of people, especially those who are at risk of severe disease or may not be up to date on their COVID-19 vaccines.
Free Virtual COVID-19 Test-to-Treat Services
Mono County businesses interested in obtaining free COVID-19 tests for their employees are encouraged to contact the Mono County Health Department at (760) 932-5580 (Bridgeport) or (760) 924-1830 (Mammoth Lakes).
Key Topics / Temas Importantes
Información sobre la prueba de COVID-19