This page provides up-to-date information regarding the Somerset County Health Department’s response to the COVID-19 public health emergency. 


general covid-19 vaccine information

COVID-19 vaccines are the best way to prevent serious illness due to COVID-19. The vaccine teaches our immune system how to recognize and fight the virus that causes COVID-19.

There are updated COVID-19 vaccines available for Marylanders 6 months and older, updated to better fight current variants. Marylanders 5 years of age and older regardless of previous vaccination are eligible to receive a single dose of the updated COVID vaccine (Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna) if it has been at least two months since the last dose of any COVID-19 vaccine.

Vaccinations are available through pediatricians and other physicians, hospitals, local health departments, and pharmacies. You can also contact your healthcare provider, pharmacist, or local health department for more details on how to receive a vaccine.


vaccine clinic information

We are currently offering COVID-19 vaccinations to eligible persons 6 months and older.  We have a limited supply of COVID vaccines for uninsured and underinsured adults.

Vaccine clinics are held as follows:

  • 6 months and older: Mondays BY APPOINTMENT ONLY 

To schedule an appointment for a vaccine call 443-523-1920. 


general testing information

 

Why Is It Important To Get A COVID-19 Test? 

Testing helps us prevent the spread of COVID-19. 

What Are The Different Types of COVID-19 Tests? 

PCR: A PCR test is the most accurate test available. Results received in 2-3 days. Tests are given at a clinic or pharmacy and sent to a lab.

  • Testing available at the Somerset County Health Department by appointment; call 443-523-1920 for more information

RAPID ANTIGEN: Less accurate than PCR tests. Results received in 15 minutes. Can be given at home.

  • Available for pick up at Somerset County Health Department, Crisfield Library, and Princess Anne Library during regular business hours

When Should I Take A Test? 

Regardless of vaccination status, take a test if: you are experiencing symptoms or it’s been 5 days after close contact with someone with COVID-19. 

What Should I Do While I Wait For Results? 

If unvaccinated, stay home and quarantine while waiting for your result. 

If vaccinated, you don’t need to quarantine while you wait, unless you develop symptoms.

What’s The Difference Between Isolation and Quarantine?  

Isolation: If you are sick or test positive, isolate when you are sick or when you have COVID-19, even if you don’t have symptoms.

Quarantine: If you were exposed, quarantine and stay away from others when you have been in close contact with someone who has COVID-19.


testing clinic information

We continue to offer free COVID-19 testing. 

ALL testing will be BY APPOINTMENT ONLY, on WEDNESDAYS from 9:30am – 11:30am.  To schedule an appointment call 443-523-1920.

All testing is at the health department in Westover.  Testing is open to all ages and face masks are required. 

If you are experiencing symptoms, please stay in your vehicle and call 443-523-1920 when you arrive.

At home test kits are always available at the Somerset County Health Department as well as the libraries in Princess Anne and Crisfield, during normal business hours.

 


I’ve tested positive, now what? 

Quarantine and Isolation Calculator

A tool to help determine how long you need to isolate, quarantine, or take other steps to prevent spreading COVID-19.

GET STARTED 

 

 

If You’ve Tested Positive With An At-Home Test Kit: 

You can now self-report a positive COVID-19 at-home test result to the CDC.  Access the form by visiting Make My Test Count.

The form is only for reporting tests taken in the past 30 days.


additional resources

cdc

MARYLAND depARTMENT of health

PUBLIC HEALTH COMMUNICATIONS COLLABORATIVE

 


what is covid-19? 

 

The novel-coronavirus is a respiratory disease. The outbreak was 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 changed rapidly.

 

CENTERs FOR DISEASE CONTROL

MARYLAND DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH’S CORONAVIRUS site

 


what are the symptoms of covid-19?

People with COVID-19 have had a wide range of symptoms reported – ranging from mild symptoms to severe illness. Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus. Anyone can have mild to severe symptoms. People with these symptoms may have COVID-19:

  • Fever or chills
  • Cough
  • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
  • Fatigue
  • Muscle or body aches
  • Headache
  • New loss of taste or smell
  • Sore throat
  • Congestion or runny nose
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Diarrhea

 

This list does not include all possible symptoms. CDC will continue to update this list as we learn more about COVID-19.

Older adults and people who have severe underlying medical conditions like heart or lung disease or diabetes seem to be at higher risk for developing more serious complications from COVID-19 illness.

If you are feeling sick, get tested. Scroll to the top for available COVID-19 testing dates. 


what is the difference between quarantine and

isolation?

you should quarantine if you were exposed:

  • Quarantine and stay away from others when you have been in close contact with someone who has COVID-19.

you should isolate if you test positive or are sick:

  • Isolate when you are sick or when you have COVID-19, even if you don’t have symptoms.

what are covid-19 variants?

Viruses constantly change through mutation and sometimes these mutations result in a new variant of the virus. Some variants emerge and disappear while others persist. New variants will continue to emerge. CDC and other public health organizations monitor all variants of the virus that causes COVID-19 in the United States and globally. For more information on COVID-19 variants, click here

 

What You Need to Know

  • New variants of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, will continue to occur.
  • CDC coordinates collaborative partnerships which continue to fuel the largest viral genomic sequencing effort to date.
  • The Omicron variant, which emerged in November 2021, has many lineages. New lineages continue to emerge and spread in the United States and globally.
  • We have the tools to fight variants. Take steps to protect yourself and others.
  • For the most up to date information on current variants, visit CDC’s COVID Data Tracker.

 

 


covid-19 information for individuals with disabilities:

If you would like more information or assistance regarding COVID-19 for people with intellectual or developmental disabilities please contact The Somerset County Health Department at  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. 

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. 

for those who are deaf or hard of hearing: 

Click here to see the full list of American Sign Language videos regarding COVID-19. 


face coverings/masks:

Use and Care of Masks

Wear a mask with the best fit, protection, and comfort for you

 

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.  

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.


children and covid-19:

kids guide to covid-19 ntips

Talking to Young Children about CoronaVirus

Caring for children, Tips from the CDC

Managing TEEN ANXIETY

SPANISH RESOURCES 


mental health and covid-19: 

during a crisis talk to people you trust

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT MENTAL HEALTH FOR ALL AGES 

MANAGING FEARS ABOUT THE CORONAVIRUS

Teleworking Anti-Anxiety Tips

psychological first responder self-care health tips

 

 

 

substance abuse and covid-19:

resources for on-line access for families and individuals dealing with substance abuse disorders

SAMHSA has also added a COVID-19 website which has several guidance documents and resources pertinent to treatment and recovery. https://www.samhsa.gov/coronavirus.


environmental health and covid-19:

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:

  • The risk of animals spreading COVID-19 to people is low.
  • The virus can spread from people to animals during close contact.
  • More studies are needed to understand if and how different animals could be affected by COVID-19.
  • People with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 should avoid contact with animals, including pets, livestock, and wildlife.

For more information about animals and COVID-19, click here. 


cdc fact sheets:

The power of social distancing

What can the public do? 

stop the spread 

handwashing 101 

 

 

 

 

 


spanish covid-19 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: 

MD Respomds logo

Do you want to make a difference and help others in your community?  Sign up today for the Maryland Responds Medical ReserveCorps.  Whether you have medical skills or non-medical skills, or even if you think you don’t have the right skills, we have a role for you in helping us prepare for and respond to a public health emergency. You must be 18 years of age and sign-up is on-line at mdresponds.health.maryland.gov .
 
As a MD responds volunteer you also benefit:
– You gain valuable hands-on experience using or improving skills to keep you and your family safe
– You get the satisfaction of knowing you made a difference and helped others.
– You gain opportunities for social interaction where you can make new friends and expand your professional network
– You can improve your physical and mental health.  Studies show those who volunteer live longer and are healthier.  
 
 

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. 



Administrative Care Coordination / Ombudsman Program

443-523-1700 Administrative Care Coordination/Ombudsman Program This program provides education and outreach to Medical Assistance (MA) recipients to increase awareness of Medical Assistance Programs. Assists beneficiaries to navigate the Medicaid/HealthChoice Program Serves as a resource for beneficiaries and providers Helps beneficiaries to understand and utilize their Medicaid benefits Educates on the importance of preventive health care…

Go to Administrative Care Coordination / Ombudsman Program →

Reproductive Health – Family Planning; Pregnancy Testing; STI Services

Somerset County Health Department offers a variety of reproductive health services to teens and women of childbearing age, as well as males. Routine GYN exams Screening for cervical cancer (pap smear) Screening for sexually transmitted infections, including testing for HIV Variety of birth control methods, information and education Pregnancy testing, counseling, and referral to community…

Go to Reproductive Health – Family Planning; Pregnancy Testing; STI Services →


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