JACKSON, Wyo. — May 11 officially marks the end of the federal government’s COVID-19 Public Health Emergency designation, but the Teton County Health Department (TCHD) says the pandemic isn’t over just yet.
“This does not mean the COVID-19 pandemic is over, but we are out of the emergency phase,” TCHD said in a press release yesterday. “There are many changes that coincide with the end of a public health emergency designation.”
Below are a couple of changes that will affect the community:
COVID-19 Tests
COVID-19 antigen tests will still be available in many local pharmacies. After May 11, there will no longer be a federal mandate that health insurance companies cover up to 8 COVID-19 tests per month.
Depending on health insurance coverage, individuals may have to pay for all or a portion of the tests going forward. For now, the federal government will continue its free COVID-19 testing program. The public can visit covidtests.gov to learn more.
Through a program by the National Association of County and City Health Officials, free COVID-19 antigen tests are available for the community at the TCHD located at 460 E. Pearl Ave.
COVID-19 Vaccinations
The COVID-19 vaccines will remain available and free while the TCHD continues to receive vaccines from the federal government. More changes to the COVID-19 vaccine program will most likely occur in the fall. The TCHD will notify the community when these changes occur.
To make an appointment for the COVID-19 vaccine, click here or call the COVID-19 Hotline at 307-732-8628.
