COVID-19 in Boston

Stay Up to Date on Your Vaccines:

The Boston Public Health Commission (BPHC) recommends everyone aged 6 months and older be vaccinated against COVID-19. Everyone aged 5 and older should stay up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines by getting boosted when eligible.

Know When to Mask:

BPHC strongly recommends wearing a mask while indoors, including when using public transportation, in government buildings, and in crowded indoor venues. Masking is especially important for those who are at higher risk for severe illness, such as people who are not fully vaccinated, seniors, and those who are immunocompromised. 

Get Tested:

Get tested If you have COVID-19 symptoms, were exposed to COVID-19, and before and after large gatherings and travel. If you test positive, contact your doctor right away to see if early treatments are an option for you. Learn more about what to do if you test positive.

Gather Outdoors or have Good Indoor Ventilation:

When weather allows, increase fresh outdoor air by opening windows and doors. This is especially important for public spaces that serve a high number of patrons.

Stay Home If You Are Sick:

If you are feeling sick, please stay home to prevent further spread to those around you. Get tested, and if you test positive, call your doctor right away. Learn more about treatment options for COVID-19. 

Wearing a well-fitting mask minimizes your likelihood of contracting and spreading the virus. BPHC strongly recommends wearing a mask: 

• When you are indoors, including when using public transportation, in government buildings, and in crowded indoor venues. 
• If you are at higher risk for severe illness, such as people who are not fully vaccinated, seniors, and those who are immunocompromised.  
• If you are around those who may be at high risk for severe COVID-19, especially if you may have been exposed to COVID-19 recently. 

Choose a mask that fits snugly against your nose and chin with no large gaps around the sides of the face. Due to the more transmissible omicron variant, consider wearing a disposable surgical mask, or if you will be in close contact with the public, a KN95 mask.