Testing:
We are currently testing weekly. For testing locations, times and details, go to our calendar page
vaccine clinic information
All individuals over age 18 are eligible for a vaccine. To schedule an appointment call 443.523.1920. Walk-ins are welcome.
Our vaccination clinics unless otherwise noted provide the Moderna vaccine. It is a two dose vaccine scheduled 28 days apart.
Upcoming COVID-19 Vaccination Clinics: (Updated 09/16/2021)
- September 17 (9:30am – 1:30pm): Somerset MAC Center, 8928 Sign Post Road, Westover – MODERNA ADDITIONAL DOSES FOR IMMUNOCOMPROMISED INDIVIDUALS ONLY.
- September 22 (11:30am – 3:30pm): Somerset MAC Center, 8928 Sign Post Road, Westover – MODERNA ADDITIONAL DOSES FOR IMMUNOCOMPROMISED INDIVIDUALS ONLY.
- September 24 (9:30am – 1:30pm): Somerset MAC Center, 8928 Sign Post Road, Westover – MODERNA ADDITIONAL DOSES FOR IMMUNOCOMPROMISED INDIVIDUALS ONLY.
- September 29 (11:30am – 3:30pm): Somerset MAC Center, 8928 Sign Post Road, Westover – MODERNA ADDITIONAL DOSES FOR IMMUNOCOMPROMISED INDIVIDUALS ONLY.
Click here to register for a vaccine clinic
booster (additional) dose information:
who needs an additional covid-19 vaccine?
when can i get a covid-19 vaccine booster?
who will be the first people to get a booster dose?
vaccine facts:
Vaccine FAQs PDF Document LinkChecklist
About-the-Vaccines-12_7_ PDF Document Link
Maryland-COVID-19-Vaccine-Fact-Sheet PDF Document Link–
Moderna Vaccine Fact Sheet PDF Document Link
Confused by all the info about the virus and the vaccine? Is it a rumor? Is it fact? For many of the answers to your questions, check out the Maryland Corona virus Rumor page here
For even more information on the COVID-19 vaccine go to https://covidlink.maryland.gov/content/vaccine/
Benefits of getting vaccinated https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/vaccine-benefits.html or visit the CDC’s FAQs here
Will my insurance be billed for my COVID vaccination? The answer is NO. Find out the details here
FOR THE LATEST NEWS go to our news and events page
The novel-coronavirus is a respiratory disease. The outbreak began in China is caused by a virus known as the 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19). Symptoms include mild to severe respiratory illness with a fever, cough, and difficulty breathing. Information and numbers of confirmed cases changes rapidly.
To learn national and general information visit the Center for Disease Control here.
maryland department of health’s coronavirus cases dashboard, go here
Governor Hogan’s Covid-19 Related Executive Orders Here
updated guidance for schools (3/26/21) here
delta variant
Should i be concerned about the delta variant?
New data shows Delta is different from past versions of the virus: it is spread more easily.
- Vaccinated people may still get infected with the Delta variant and may be contagious.
- Vaccinated people make up a small number of individuals infected with the Delta variant.
- Unvaccinated people are at the highest risk of getting the Delta variant.
- The best way to stop the spread of the Delta variant is to get vaccinated.
are vaccines effective?
Yes! Getting vaccinated prevents severe illness, hospitalization, and death; it also helps reduce the spread of the virus in communities.
do i need to wear a mask?
Please follow state and local guidelines.
myth vs. FACTS
m: Do the covid-19 vaccines cause blood clots?
f: it is rare. blood clots from getting covid-19 are a 1,000 times higher than blood clots caused by the vaccines.
m: Do the covid-19 vaccines contain a microchiP?
f: no. those who have gotten the vaccine will not be tracked.
m: are the side ffects of a covid-19 vaccine bad?
f: no. side effects mean your body is building protection. they usually last a day or two.
m: is it safe for me to get a covid-19 vaccine if i would like to have a baby someday?
f: yes. there is no data that says this vaccination causes any problems with pregnancy or fertility.
m: if i’ve aleady had covid-19 do i still need to get a covid-19 vaccine?
f: yes. the vaccine will keep you from getting sick with covid-19.
m: Are covid-19 vaccines made with aborted fetal cells?
f: no. covid-19 vaccines do not contain aborted fetal cells.
KNOW THE FACTS
- Anyone can get sick with the coronavirus regardless of race or ethnicity or age.
- Signs and symptoms include: fever of 100.4 degrees or more, cough, and shortness of breath. Call your healthcare provider if you have these symptoms and have been in close contact with a person known to have the virus or if you have recently traveled.
- Protect yourself. Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 sec. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands. Stay home if you are sick, cover your cough or sneeze. Practice social distancing.
- Protect yourself by practicing social distancing. Avoid gatherings and public places that are still open.
- Effective April 18, 2020, you must wear a face covering if in an indoor establishment or if outdoors and unable to maintain six feet apart.
- Frequently Asked Questions about Testing PDF Document Link
Need help finding a food pantry? Follow link for the 2020 Tri-County resource directory PDF Document Link
individuals with disabilities
If you would like more information or assistance regarding COVID-19 for people with intellectual or developmental disabilities please contact Kyleigh Beaver, Public Affairs Specialist at kyleigh.beaver@maryland.gov or call 443.523.1700 or 443.783.0621
a guide for caregivers
COVID-19 is challenging to explain, live through, and communicate about. As a caregiver, you work hard to help the person you care for stay healthy and safe during this difficult time.
The CDC has created videos, posters, social stories, and cut-out activities so you can choose the materials that work best for your situation. These materials cover 5 basic topics:
- Getting a COVID-19 shot
- Wearing a mask until a few weeks after your last COVID-19 shot
- Keeping a safe distance until a few weeks after your last COVID-19 shot
- Washing your hands
- Getting a COVID-19 test
tips for talking about covid-19
Model and explain what you’re doing to stay safe. When you take steps like wearing a mask or washing your hands, try pointing out and talking about what you’re doing. For example, as you’re putting your mask on, say “I’m putting my mask on now before I go outside.”
Show empathy by acknowledging the hard things. Some ways to prevent COVID-19 like wearing a mask and getting a vaccine, can be hard — especially for people with sensory challenges. Show that you understand what they’re going through. Then remind them that everyone needs to take steps to stay safe from COVID-19. When possible, see if there are small changes that could make it easier – for example, trying out a different style of masks.
Give safe distance reminders. When you’re getting ready to leave home, remind the person you care for to keep a safe distance (until a few weeks after their last COVID-19 shot). Be sure to use the same words every time. For example, you could say, “When we go out, keep a safe distance between yourself and other people.”
Identify and acknowledge changes in routine. When COVID-19 interrupts your plans or routines, clearly acknowledge what’s changing and explain why. For example: “We can’t go out to dinner with Uncle Marcus right now. I know you miss hanging out with him, but it’s not safe because of COVID-19.” If possible, suggest a safer alternative like a video call.
Explain what to expect ahead of time. When you’re getting ready to go to a new place, explain what to expect and point out anything that might be different than usual because of COVID-19. For example, as you’re getting ready for a doctor’s appointment, you could mention that everyone will keep a safe distance in the waiting room, and the doctor will also wear a mask. Social stories can be a great way to prepare for new situations like these.
Ease their worries. It’s normal to feel scared or anxious about COVID-19 — especially when there’s so much that is out of our control. If the person you care for is feeling worried, remind them that there are things they can do to stay safe: get a COVID-19 shot, wear a mask, and keep a safe distance until 2 weeks after their last shot, and wash their hands.
information for churches and places of worship
An important letter from our Health Officer PDF Document Link
Faith-Based-Recommendations PDF Document Link
Recommendations from the Baltimore-Washington Charge of the United Methodists PDF Document Link
face coverings faq
Where can I find a face covering? Most stores are now selling pre-made face masks. You can also look for a bandanna or a scarf that will cover both nose and mouth.
How do I make a face covering? The Center for Disease Control has an excellent handout on making them for both those who do not sew and those who do sew. Follow link to download PDF Document Link.
Do I need more than one covering? It’s a good idea as they must be cleaned daily.
How frequently do I need to clean a face covering? Every day. Wash your covering in warm to hot water with soap.
Can I share my face covering? No. Everyone should have their own to limit the exchange of germs and stop the spread of infection.
been told to quarantine? Follow these recommendations here
Self quarantine tips Poster PDF Document Link
children and families topics
Need help finding food during covid 19? read the list of local sites in both english and spanish here
behavioral health student and young adult resource guide PDF Document Link
Outbreak Factsheet for Parents and Caregivers PDF Document Link
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT CHILD CARE PDF Document Link
Workplace-School-and-Home-Guidance PDF Document Link
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT STAYING AT HOME AND SELF ISOLATION PDF Document Link
Talking to Young Children CoronaVirus PDF Document Link
Caring for children, Tips from the CDC
Managing teen anxiety
MENTAL HEALTH and substance use
TOPICS
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT MENTAL HEALTH FOR ALL AGES PDF Document Link
Managing Fears about the coronavirus PDF Document Link
Teleworking Anti-Anxiety Tips PDF Document Link
psychological first responder self-care health tips here Link to Word Document
Resources for on-line access for those families and individuals dealing with Substance use disorders
- Narcotics Anonymous http://www.jftna.org or http://virtual-na.org or http://NAbyphone.com
- Alcoholics Anonymous
- Recovery dharma
- SMART Recovery
- Celebrate Recovery
SAMHSA has also added a COVID-19 website which has several guidance documents and resources pertinent to treatment and recovery. https://www.samhsa.
ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH TOPICS
COVID-19 Food Safety guidelines FOR HOME AND BUSINESS
COVID19 and Septic Systems – What to Know PDF Document Link
Disinfecting Work and Home PDF Document Link
pets and covid-19
There is currently not evidence that pets can transmit the virus. Pets can stay in a household if someone has a COVID-19 unless they are unable to care for the pets. To protect your pet, limit contact with them, avoid having them lick your face, wash your hands before and after you care for your pet. For more resources and information go to http://nasphv,org or http://amva.org
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS FOR OLDER ADULTS PDF Document Link
FACT SHEETS FROM THE CDC
what the public should do to protect themselves PDF Document Link
Sick-with-2019-nCoV-fact-sheet PDF Document Link
stop-the-spread-of-germs poster PDF Document Link
WASH-UP Coronavirus Prevention Flyer PDF Document Link
HANDWASHING 101 GUIDE POSTER PDF Document Link
spanish information
Lo que necesita saber sobre la enfermedad del coronavirus 2019 PDF Document Link
¿Se siente enfermo? PDF Document Link
SÍNTOMAS DE LA ENFERMEDAD DEL CORONAVIRUS 2019 PDF Document Link
Los Microbios están por todos lados PDF Document Link.
MANTENGA LA CALMA Y LÁVESE LAS MANOS PDF Document Link
Qué hacer si contrae la enfermedad del coronavirus 2019 PDF Document Link
DETENGA LA PROPAGACIÓN DE LOS MICROBIOS PDF Document Link
get involved:
For even more go TO CDC.GOV/CORONAVIRUS WEBSITE FOR PREVENTION TIPS, GUIDELINES FOR SPECIFIC populations AND MORE.
media:
wboc commercial – “I Got Vaccinated because…”
contact tracing survey
The Contact Tracing Unit at the Maryland Department of Health is working to evaluate contact tracing by asking the public to fill out a brief survey. Please consider participating in the brief survey (10 minutes or less to complete). Please click the following link to participate: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/ctmaryland
If you would like to complete the survey in Spanish or know anyone who would, please use the following link: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/ctspan
Your participation is voluntary, and you may stop at any time.