COVID-19 UPDATE

The updated COVID-19 vaccine for 2023 is now recommended for everyone ages 6 months and older by the CDC. These vaccines, which target the Omicron XBB.1.5 subvariant, were approved by the FDA on September 11. They should be available in large commercial pharmacies, but will not be offered by Transylvania Public Health at this time.

COVID-19 trends continue to increase, based on wastewater monitoring for COVID-19 virus particles, hospital admissions for COVID-19, and emergency department visits for COVID-like illness.

Symptoms of COVID-19 can be mild or very severe; they include fever, cough, shortness of breath, fatigue, muscle or body aches, headache, new loss of taste or smell, sore throat, congestion or runny nose, nausea or vomiting, and diarrhea. Some of these symptoms can seem similar to allergies or other illnesses, but people who have any of these symptoms should also consider COVID-19 as a cause and seek testing either using an at-home test kit or from a healthcare provider.

Most people can recover from COVID-19 with rest, fluids, and over-the-counter medicines, but those who are at high risk for getting very sick should seek treatment from a healthcare provider that can reduce the chances of severe illness. Anyone who has trouble breathing, persistent pain or pressure in the chest, new confusion, inability to wake or stay awake, or pale, gray, or blue-colored skin, lips, and nail beds should call 911 or seek emergency care immediately.

People with COVID-19 should stay home and separate from others for at least 5 days, then wear a well-fitting mask around others for 5 more days. To protect others in the home, they should also take steps to improve ventilation, avoid sharing household items, and practice everyday hygiene and cleaning.

People who have been exposed to someone with COVID-19 should wear a well-fitting, high-quality mask around others for 10 days, take extra precautions around people who are more likely to get very sick, watch for symptoms, and get tested at least 5 full days after the last exposure.

For more information about COVID-19 symptoms, testing, guidance, or vaccines, call 884-3135 during the health department’s normal business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:30am-5:00pm).

FEATURED NEWS

SUMMER AT THE TOWN POOL WITH FRIENDS ON A HOT SUMMER DAY.

A SPECIAL BIRTHDAY LUNCH FOR ONE OF YOUR FAVORITE CO-WORKERS.

MATCHING TATTOOS WITH YOUR COUSINS, JUST LIKE YOU ALWAYS SAID YOU WOULD.

You might not know it, but memories like these are made possible by Transylvania Public Health. We inspect places like public and private pools, restaurants, hotels and even tattoo parlors to help keep them clean and safe for everyone in Transylvania County to use.

We also keep Transylvania County safe by offering immunizations, screening for health concerns, encouraging good nutrition, and more. Good public health is the backbone of a thriving, healthy community. Transylvania Public Health is already doing a lot to keep you healthy. Get to know us – there’s a lot more we can do for you.

HOURS OF OPERATION

Monday – Thursday
8:30am-12:00pm & 1:00pm-5:00pm

Friday
8:30am-5:00pm (last appt at 4:30pm)

828.884.3135

[email protected]