covid
COVID

  • Pharmacies: Most major pharmacies across the state offer the vaccine. Visit vaccines.gov to see a list of pharmacies near you.
  • Be sure to use an in-network pharmacy. Bring your medical ID card to the pharmacy.

Mobile Vaccine Clinic Schedule

  • Get a vaccine at no cost to you at a location near you!

UPDATED COVID VACCINE FOR THE 2024 - 2025 SEASON

  • Why is there a new vaccine? Since the virus that causes COVID-19 is constantly changing, and protection from COVID-19 vaccines declines over time, new vaccines are being developed. 
  • Who should get the vaccine? The Centers for Disease Control recommends everyone six months and older get an updated COVID-19 vaccine. If you have recently had COVID, please see the CDC website for recommendations.
  • What about boosters? Boosters are no longer necessary. New vaccines will be released as needed. 
  • Learn more: See the COVID-19 page on the CDC website.
  • Cost: COVID vaccines are considered preventive and will be covered when using an in-network provider or pharmacy. Deductibles and copays will apply when using an out-of-network provider or pharmacy.
  • Does a flu shot conflict with a COVID-19 vaccination? No. The two vaccines do not conflict. You may get the shots on consecutive days or on the same day. We offer flu shots at all State Employee COVID Vaccine Clinic events listed below. 

HOW TO DECIDE IF YOU NEED A TEST

  • You do not need a doctor to approve your test, but a healthcare provider must order it to have it covered by the plan. See "Testing Fees" below.
  • However, call your healthcare provider immediately if you believe you might have been exposed to COVID-19 or have symptoms such as fever, cough, or trouble breathing. (If you are experiencing life-threatening symptoms, please call 911.) 

COVID TESTS

  • At-Home Tests - These are available at pharmacies.
  • Free Tests From the Federal Government - Free tests from the federal government are available.  Visit special.usps.com/testkits to order. 
  • Expiration Dates Extended - Tests may show “expired” dates on the box, but FDA has extended those dates; see the full list of extended expiration dates.

EMERGENCY ROOMS AND TESTING

  • Hospitals report that people with no symptoms or mild symptoms are seeking COVID-19 tests at emergency rooms instead of designated testing sites, making it more difficult to care for people facing medical emergencies. 
  • Please use the links above for COVID-19 testing if you have no symptoms or mild symptoms. 
  • Of course, if you have a medical emergency or are experiencing symptoms like trouble breathing, uncontrolled bleeding, altered mental state, or signs of a stroke or heart attack, don't hesitate to go to an emergency room to get the attention you need.

    TESTING FEES

    • COVID lab tests will be covered without a deductible or copay when a physician orders the test. 
    • The plan will not cover COVID over-the-counter test kits. However, you can purchase these tests with your Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA).

    • Vaccines are important for protecting yourself from getting seriously ill or dying from COVID-19. They are recommended for most people. Vaccination is voluntary but highly encouraged.
    • We wish to emphasize the importance of vaccination for the safety of your family and workplace and the future prosperity of our State.

    • Obtain your vaccination record from the State as follows: