covid
COVID

UPDATED COVID VACCINE FOR THE 2023 - 2024 SEASON

  • Why is there a new vaccine? Since the virus that causes COVID-19 is always changing, and protection from COVID-19 vaccines declines over time, new vaccines are being developed. The current vaccine is referred to as the “2023-2024 vaccine.”
  • Who should get the vaccine? As of September 12, 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 are offering flu shots at all State Employee COVID Vaccine Clinic events as listed below. 

WHERE TO GET A VACCINE

  • Map of Vaccine Providers - Interactive Map
  • Text to Find Vaccines - Text your ZIP Code to 438829 (GETVAX) to get a message with three locations near you with vaccines available.
  • Pharmacies - Most major pharmacies are offering the vaccine across the state.

FREE HOME TEST KITS AVAILABLE FROM THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT

  • As of September 25, 2023, residential households in the U.S. can order one set of #4 free at-home tests again from USPS.com. Place your order here.
  • Here's what you need to know about your order:
    • Limit of one order per residential address
    • One order includes 4 individual rapid antigen COVID-19 tests. COVIDTests.gov has more details about at-home tests, including extended shelf life and updated expiration dates.
    • Orders will ship free starting the week of October 2, 2023.

COVID TESTS

  • Nasal Swab Lab Tests - Free tests are widely available at doctor’s offices, pharmacies, public clinics, and numerous other locations around the state. Visit azhealth.gov/testing for locations. 
  • Walk-up Saliva Tests - ASU offers facilities in Flagstaff, Mesa, Scottsdale, and Tucson. Find hours and locations here. Even if appointments are full on the registration site, you may still walk up a get a test. Results are available online, often within 24 hours. COVID-19 saliva testing has concluded at ADOA. Insurance coverage is not required to use this service. 
  • At-Home Tests - tests are available at pharmacies.

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. This is making it more difficult to care for people facing medical emergencies. 
  • Please use the links listed 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.


HOW TO DECIDE IF YOU NEED A TEST

  • You do not need a doctor to approve your test but to have it covered by the plan, it must be ordered by a healthcare provider. See "Testing Fees" below.
  • However, call your healthcare provider right away 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.) 


TESTING FEES

  • COVID lab tests will be covered without a deductible or copay when a physician orders the test. 
  • COVID over-the-counter test kits will not be covered by the plan if purchased after May 11, 2023. 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: