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What to know about COVID-19

As the COVID-19 status changes, we want to make sure you get the care you need, when you need it. On this page, you can learn more about the virus, including tips to help you stay as healthy as possible. You can also find out where to get the COVID-19 vaccine. 

COVID-19 news and updates

 

Vaccine and booster updates

 

Help paying for internet services

 

Need help paying for internet? You may be able to get discounts from the Federal Communications Commission. Their Affordable Connectivity Program helps eligible homes pay for internet during the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

See if you qualify for the Affordable Connectivity Program 

 

Get your vaccine 

 

You’ll want to get the vaccine even if you:

 

 

Questions about the vaccine? You can visit the state’s Department of Health for more info.

 

You can also talk with your primary care provider (PCP) if you have concerns. Remember to keep:

 

  • Wearing your mask
  • Practicing social distancing
  • Washing your hands

Get your vaccine

 

Vaccine questions and answers

 

Is the COVID-19 vaccine safe? 

 

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has authorized three COVID-19 vaccines. These have been shown to be safe and effective.

 

Am I covered for the COVID-19 vaccine?

 

Yes. You can get the vaccine at no extra cost.

 

How do I get the COVID-19 vaccine?

 

You can visit the state website to find out where to get the vaccine. Once you do, just make an appointment.

 

Get the vaccine

COVID-19 questions and answers

Here are some common questions and answers about COVID-19. 

 

We rely on info from the:

 

This info doesn’t replace your provider’s advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always talk with your PCP or other health care provider about your questions.

A coronavirus causes COVID-19, an illness that affects the lungs. You can visit the CDC website to learn more.

The symptoms of COVID-19 may include:

 

  • Shortness of breath

  • Fever 

  • Cough

  • Trouble breathing 

 

More severe cases of the virus can cause:

 

  • Pneumonia

  • Acute respiratory distress syndrome

  • Kidney failure 

 

You have a higher risk of getting the virus if you:

 

  • Have heart or lung disease

  • Have a weakened immune system

  • Are an infant or older adult

It can spread through the air by coughing or sneezing. It also spreads through close contact, from person to person.

 

In some cases, a person may get COVID-19 by touching a surface that has the virus on it. Then, they touch their own eyes, nose or mouth with their hands.

 

Learn more about how COVID-19 spreads

You can lower your risk of getting the virus. Here are some tips:

 

  • Get the COVID-19 vaccine.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
  • Keep six feet away from people who don’t live in your home.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands.
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • Stay home if you are sick or have cold-like symptoms.
  • Clean your work desk and phone before and after use, especially if you share with other workers.

Most people with symptoms that aren’t severe get better on their own. These tips can help ease the symptoms if you’re mildly sick:

 

  • Take pain and fever medicine. Ask your pharmacist how this may affect other medicines you take.
  • Use a room humidifier or take a hot shower.
  • Drink plenty of liquids.
  • Stay home and rest.

 

Caution: The CDC and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) advise not giving aspirin to children.

No, these shots don’t lower your risk of getting COVID-19. You’ll want to get shots for other lung infections, like flu, pneumonia and whooping cough. You should do this if you have:

 

  • A weakened immune system

  • A more serious illness

  • A history of getting shots that help prevent illness

Getting your other shots doesn’t just protect your health. It also lowers the burden on health care providers. This lets them focus on COVID-19.

The CDC recommends testing anyone who:

 

  • Has had contact with someone who has or may have COVID-19

Get testing for COVID-19

Yes, you’re covered for COVID-19 testing. There are no copays and you don’t need PA to get tested. 

You can get COVID-19 testing at community testing sites. If you aren’t showing symptoms, just contact your provider first. People at high risk for the virus should get testing before anyone else. This includes:

 

  • Health care workers

  • First responders

  • People living in group settings

  • Older adults 

  • Anyone who has been in close contact with a person who tested positive for COVID-19

Each testing site works on a schedule and has certain rules. Be sure to check with the site before visiting, as you may be turned away.

 

Get testing for COVID-19

Extra support

 

We know you may have a lot of questions. Here are some other ways you can get support during COVID-19. 

Take steps to avoid COVID-19 scams. Don’t respond if you get a call, text or email about “free” COVID-19 testing. And never give out your member ID number or personal info. To report any scams, you can:

 

Telehealth services let you get care from the comfort and safety of home. 

 

Here’s how telehealth works

You can still get routine care during COVID-19. Here’s how:

 

  • Call before visiting a provider’s office.

    You’ll want to call your PCP or other health care provider before you go there. They’ll share info about how they’re treating patients during COVID-19. You can also check with your provider to see if they offer telehealth services.

  • Get answers to your questions anytime. 

    Need a quick answer to a health question? Or can't wait to see your provider? The 24-Hour Nurse Line is here for you. Just call Member Services. Then, choose the option for the Nurse Line. We’ll connect you with a nurse. 

    Member Services: 

  • Get help with a dental emergency.

    Medicaid MMA: Your dental services are covered by the Statewide Medicaid Managed Care (SMMC) program, not by Aetna Better Health®.  You can find dental plan contact info on the SMMC website.

    Florida Healthy Kids: Just call the Florida Healthy Kids Corporation at 1-888-540-KIDS (5437) for details about your dental services.

  • Know when to go to the emergency room (ER) instead of urgent care.

    If you’re having an emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest hospital.
    If it’s not an emergency, but you need medical advice, call our 24-Hour Nurse Line. Just call Member Services and choose the option for the Nurse Line.


A nurse can help you decide if you need to go to the ER or urgent care. You can learn more about getting the right care at the right time.

You should be able to meet your health care needs, even during COVID-19. To help make it easier, you may now: 

 

  • Get up to 90 days of certain supplies to treat your health needs
  • Get care from your home through telehealth services with video chat or phone
  • Connect with a case manager to help you get services and update your care plan as needed

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