COVID-19 in Boston

It is important to keep in mind that people can still spread viruses even when feeling better. Enhanced precautions include: 

• Wear a mask: 
  • For five days after being sick. 
  • If you must leave the house while sick. 
  • If you are at high risk of severe illness. 

• Have COVID-19 rapid test kits available at home to test if you have symptoms of COVID-19. Free COVID-19 At-Home Test Kits are available to Boston residents. Kits are available at distribution hubs throughout the city. Find a distribution hub near you.

• Seek treatment from a trusted health care provider if you test positive for COVID-19 or flu and are at high risk for severe disease and/or illness.  

• Wash your hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.  

• Regularly disinfect and clean high tough surfaces.  

• Increase indoor ventilation and air circulation, even cracking open a window helps increase airflow. 

For in-depth Massachusetts guidelines, please refer to the MA Department of Public Health's recommendations.

WHY SHOULD I GET VACCINATED?

The COVID-19 vaccine is an important and effective tool to keep ourselves and our communities safe.

COVID-19 vaccines offer the best protection against becoming seriously ill, being hospitalized or dying from COVID-19. Even though COVID-19 can be mild, lasting health problems from the disease (known as “Long COVID”) can occur. That's why everyone ages 6 months and older should get vaccinated.

WHY SHOULD I VACCINATE MY CHILD?

The COVID-19 vaccine helps keep your family safe and healthy.

Even though COVID-19 is usually milder in children, some children can get very sick or develop lasting health problems. Children can also spread the virus to family members who are at higher risk of getting very sick from COVID-19. The COVID-19 vaccine protects your child getting very sick and helps prevent serious short- and long-term complications of COVID-19. Not only that, vaccinating your child can help keep them in childcare and school, and makes it safer for them to enjoy the activities they love.

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 outdoor 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.

Follow BPHC’s guide on how to put on a mask.

You can also learn how to safely put on and remove gloves.

• Work with your care providers to keep asthma and allergies in check. Make sure you have enough of the medications you need. Follow your Asthma Action Plan.
• Take daily and rescue medications as prescribed.  
• Know and avoid your triggers as much as possible. 
• Clean and disinfect safely by protecting yourself and others.