The single red line on this rapid antigen COVID-19 test indicates a negative result. Rapid antigen tests are less sensitive than PCR tests but can come in handy in a pinch.
The single red line on this rapid antigen COVID-19 test indicates a negative result. Rapid antigen tests are less sensitive than PCR tests but can come in handy in a pinch.
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On the last Sunday of September, President Joe Biden declared that “the pandemic is over” in an episode of “60 Minutes.” Nonetheless, Teton County returned to red for another jump in COVID-19 numbers, spiking at over 100 new cases in the past two weeks.
“The words [Biden] said were not accurate, as hundreds of people are still dying in our country every day,” said Jodie Pond, director of health at the Teton County Health Department. “We may be out of the emergency phase of our pandemic, but we are still dealing with testing and working on responses with updated boosters.”
The Health Department still fields calls daily about specific COVID questions, since each experience with the virus and each quarantine scenario can be unique. On Mondays the county holds a kids clinic, which is still busy with children receiving first doses and boosters.
Since health recommendations continue to evolve, the News&Guide asked Pond about questions community members still have regarding testing, isolating and getting vaccinated. Responses have been paraphrased for clarity and length. Pond also noted that “every scenario is different,” so for guidance on case-specific inquiries, she encourages individuals to call the county’s COVID hotline at 732-8628.
Are rapid antigen COVID tests less accurate than PCR?
No, they’re just less sensitive. Folks who are asymptomatic or have a low viral load may not have a positive result on an antigen test, even if they are contagious and test positive on a PCR.
Is there ever a good time to get a rapid antigen test?
When you need a result, quick and easy. If you are on vacation and wake up feeling under the weather, a rapid antigen test can detect if you are highly contagious. If you’ve been testing but want one more piece of assurance right before visiting an elderly relative, an antigen test can do the job.
What is the difference between rapid PCR and RT-PCR tests?
The technology between the two tests is not very different, though RT-PCR tests are considered to be the “gold standard” of COVID tests for accuracy.
A rapid PCR test takes the form of a nasal swab, and results can be processed on-site within the day. RT-PCR tests can also be administered as a nasal swab, or as a saliva or throat swab. This test requires lab processing, which means results can take about three business days.
What are the COVID testing options in the county?
Rapid PCR and RT-PCR testing can be done by appointment through Curative at the Teton County Library and at the clinic by Target.
RT-PCR Vault test kits are also available at the Teton County Health Department, 460 E. Pearl Ave. These tests are saliva-based and can be taken at home or on the go, though the culture must be brought to a UPS drop-off. Every kit contains a prepaid UPS label for shipping to the lab. Once shipped, results are returned by email in two to four days.
Rapid antigen tests are available over the counter at CVS Pharmacy in Target, Albertsons and Smith’s.
What do COVID tests cost?
The state is still subsidizing Curative PCR tests, so folks who are uninsured can get tested for free. The test is also free for folks who have insurance, but only if they are symptomatic. Some insurance companies, like Blue Cross Blue Shield of Wyoming, do not cover surveillance/asymptomatic testing.
Vault tests are free to pick up, and UPS shipping is covered.
Over-the-counter antigen tests do cost money to buy, but insurance companies will reimburse for these tests, up to $12 per test for up to eight tests.
If you are immunocompromised, should you still be worried about COVID?
While most people around town are not masking anymore, anyone who is at a high risk for COVID hospitalization or death should mask when in crowded spaces. Getting the new, bivalent COVID booster shot, which targets the original strain of SARS-CoV-2 and also the Omicron BA.4 and BA.5 components, can better protect folks against the virus. The long-term effects of COVID are still under study, so avoiding exposure to the virus whenever possible is safest.
What is the new, bivalent COVID booster shot?
Teton County started taking appointments Sept. 6 for the bivalent COVID-19 booster shot, which targets the original strain of SARS-CoV-2 and also the Omicron BA.4 and BA.5 components. Since the majority of COVID cases in the country are Omicron BA.4 and BA.5 variants, the hope is that the new booster will increase protection for people in the fall and winter.
How do I schedule an appointment for a bivalent booster shot?
If you are 12 years old or older, you can schedule a bivalent booster appointment at the Teton County Health Department, Smith’s or Albertsons. Visit Vaccines.gov and select a vaccine that says “Newly Authorized Bivalent” to make an appointment.
What should you do if you live with someone who tests positive?
Keep as much distance as possible from the infected housemate. If possible, use a separate bathroom, sleep in different rooms and space out mealtimes. Wear an N-95 mask around the house and air out common spaces by keeping windows open. While these guidelines can reduce the risk of contracting the virus, those who live with a COVID-positive person should get tested several times to account for the virus’s incubation period.
Contact Miranda de Moraes at 732-7063 or mdm@jhnewsandguide.com.
Raised in a Brazilian-American household in Southern California, Miranda is fascinated by the intersection of culture and ecology. She holds a master’s in journalism from Columbia and is searching for jackalopes in her free time.
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