Novel coronavirus

COVID-19 is here to stay for the foreseeable future. But everyone can take steps to protect themselves and their loved ones against COVID-19:

Everyday practices to prevent colds, influenza and other respiratory illnesses can also protect people against COVID-19:

  • Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. When soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60 percent alcohol.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands.
  • Cover coughs and sneezes. 
  • Stay home and away from others when sick.
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • Clean and disinfect objects and surfaces that are frequently touched.

COVID-19 questions?

The Washington State Department of Health COVID-19 hotline can answer questions and provide resources, including information about COVID-19 vaccine locations and treatments. The hotline can also connect people who are isolating at home after testing positive with Care Connect Washington, a service that provides groceries, supplies and other resources. 

Call 800.525.0127, then press #
Available 6 am to 10 pm Monday, 6 am to 6 pm Tuesday through Sunday and state-observed holidays

Language assistance is available.

What to do if you test positive for COVID-19

If you have tested positive for COVID-19, you can spread the virus to others. Take steps to help prevent the spread of the virus to others in your home and community:

What to do if you're exposed to COVID-19

If you've been around someone who tested positive for COVID-19, you can develop COVID-19 up to date days after you were exposed. Take steps to prevent potentially spreading the virus to others:

  • Wear a high-quality mask around others at home and in public for 10 days after your last contact with the person with COVID-19
  • Get tested 3-5 days after you last exposure, even if you don't have symptoms
  • Watch for symptoms

COVID-19 testing

Anyone who develops symptoms of COVID-19 should be tested. Most health care facilities now offer COVID-19 testing. Visit the Washington Department of Health website to find testing locations near you.

At-home COVID-19 tests are a convenient way for people to test themselves for current COVID-19 infection. Learn more about using at-home tests on the Washington Department of Health website and CDC website. For a list of FDA authorized tests and updates on expiration dates, visit the FDA website.

COVID-19 therapeutics

People who test positive for COVID-19 and are at higher risk for severe illness may benefit from COVID-19 therapeutics (medications). These treatments can help prevent severe illness, hospitalization, and death from COVID-19. Talk to your healthcare provider right away if you test positive and are at higher risk, as treatments need to be started early to work best. Your healthcare provider will help determine if COVID-19 medications are appropriate for you.

Test to Treat

Test to Treat is a national program that gives people a fast way to access free COVID-19 treatment. Through the program, people are able to get tested and — if they are positive and treatments are appropriate for them — receive a prescription from a health care provider, and have their prescription filled all at one location.

Use the Test to Treat lo​c​ato​​r to find a site and book an appointment. 

Additional resources