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What to know about COVID-19

As the COVID-19 situation changes, we want to ensure 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 info on where to get the COVID-19 vaccine.

Protect yourself from scams

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 go online or call 1-800-447-8477. You can also call Member Services at 1-855-232-3596 (TTY: 711).

Get your vaccine

Get your vaccine

Even if you feel healthy, are careful or haven't gotten COVID-19, you should get vaccinated when it's your turn. This can protect you, your family, friends and community in the long run. 

 

Everyone who is six months and older can get the COVID-19 vaccine at no cost. Check out this flyer (PDF) to learn more.

 

Have questions about the vaccine? You can visit the State of New Jersey website for more info.

 

You can also talk with your primary care provider (PCP) if you have concerns. Remember to keep wearing your mask, practice social distancing and wash your hands.

 

Find a CVS Pharmacy® location that offers the vaccine

COVID-19 vaccine FAQs

COVID-19 vaccine FAQs

Is the COVID-19 vaccine safe?

The government approved the vaccine under its Emergency Use Authorization. The vaccine went through careful testing for safety and effectiveness. It’s safe to use. 

 

Am I covered for the COVID-19 vaccine?

Yes, you’re covered for the COVID-19 vaccine. You can get the vaccine at no extra cost.

 

How do I register to get the COVID-19 vaccine?

You can visit the state website to register for your vaccine appointment. 

COVID-19 general FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions and answers about COVID-19. 

 

We rely on info from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO). Keep in mind: This info doesn’t replace your provider’s advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always talk with your PCP or other health care provider.

A coronavirus causes COVID-19, an illness that affects the lungs. You can check out this quick fact sheet (PDF) 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 infected by touching a surface that has the virus on it, and then touching their own eyes, nose or mouth.

 

Learn more about how COVID-19 spreads

You can lower your risk of getting the virus by:

 

  • Washing your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds

  • Keeping six feet away from people who don’t live in your home

  • Avoiding touching your eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands

  • Avoiding close contact with people who are sick

  • Staying home if you are sick or have cold-like symptoms

  • Cleaning your workstation and phone before and after using them, especially if you share them with other employees

Most people with non-severe COVID-19 symptoms will 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 improve your health. It also lowers the burden on health care providers. And lets them focus on COVID-19 right now.

The CDC recommends testing anyone who:

 

  • Shows symptoms of COVID-19 after visiting a CDC “Level 2” or “Level 3” advisory area

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

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

We’re working with CVS Health® to offer you more access to COVID-19 testing. You can learn more about drive-thru testing locations at the CVS Health website.

 

There are three types of testing sites:

 

  1. Community-based testing sites

     

    These sites are open to all New Jersey residents, including people who aren’t showing symptoms. People with no symptoms will need to contact their provider before testing. People who are at higher risk for the virus should get tested 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
  2. Local testing sites

     

    These sites may only be open to first responders or people living in a specific county or district. Some also require an appointment or prescription from a health care provider.

  3. Private testing sites


    To get testing at these sites, you’ll need to contact your PCP or other health care provider.

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

 

Find testing site locations and hours

Extra support

We know it's a tough time and you may have a lot of questions. Here are some other ways you can get support during COVID-19. 

You can get a 90-day maintenance medication prescription when you need it.

 

Learn more about pharmacy benefits 

Using telehealth services, you can get care from the comfort and safety of home. You can meet with a provider via video chat or phone with no copay. If your provider doesn’t offer these services, we can help find you one that does. Just call Member Services at 1-855-232-3596 (TTY 711).

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 the COVID-19 pandemic. You can also check with your provider to see if they’re offering care with telehealth services.  

  • Get answers to your questions at any time.  

    Need a quick answer to a health question? The 24-Hour Nurse Line is here for you. If your concern can’t wait until you can see your provider, call 1-855-232-3596 (TTY:711) anytime. And we’ll connect you with a nurse.  

  • Get help with a dental emergency. 

    Many dental offices are open to handle your emergency dental needs. If your provider’s office is closed or you don’t have a provider, call LIBERTY Dental Plan at 1-855-225-1727. They’ll help you find a provider. If you’re out of town and need emergency dental care, you can see any dentist for care. You don’t need a referral or prior approval to get emergency dental care. 

  • Know when to go to the emergency room (ER) versus 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 us at 1-855-232-3596 (TTY: 711). The 24-Hour Nurse Line can help you decide if you need to go to the ER or urgent care. Check out this article to learn more about getting the right care at the right time.

NJ FamilyCare is working to ensure you meet your health care needs during COVID-19. To help make it easier, you can now: 

 

  • Refill your prescriptions early. You can also get a 90-day maintenance medication prescription filled at one time.

  • Get care from your home through telehealth services. See and talk with your provider by video chat or phone. 

  • Pay pre-cleared family members to provide you with personal care help at home. This includes daily activities such as bathing, toileting and other care needs.

  • Connect with a care manager, who can help you get services and update your care plan as needed. 

  • Get help with personal care or meals at home.

  • Get rides to medical services and appointments.  

  • Arrange plans for leaving the hospital if you have behavioral health or long-term care needs.

 

Learn more about what NJ FamilyCare is doing to support you (PDF)

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