Coronavirus (COVID-19) Information

The federal COVID-19 public health emergency (PHE) declaration ended on May 11, 2023.

What is the coronavirus?
COVID-19 is a respiratory disease that is caused by a new virus called a coronavirus, which has become a public health emergency. The number of cases continue to increase nationally and globally.

What are the symptoms?
The symptoms of coronavirus include mild to severe respiratory symptoms. Symptoms include fever, cough, and shortness of breath, and lower respiratory illness. COVID-19 can be contagious before a person begins showing symptoms.

What else causes similar symptoms?
Influenza (the flu), a contagious respiratory illness caused by the influenza viruses (Type A and Type B), has high activity in the United States in the Fall/Winter months. Everyone 6 months of age and older should get a flu vaccine annually.

I may have symptoms. What do I do?
If you have been exposed or begin showing symptoms of the virus or flu, contact your healthcare provider or health department immediately.

Protect yourself and your community.
We all have a role to play in protecting our communities and families from the spread of coronavirus. It is similar to other communicable viruses. Follow these tips to prevent infection.

• Get the COVID-19 vaccine as soon as you are able. 
• Wash your hands thoroughly and frequently. Use soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
• Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizing rub (must contain at least 60 percent alcohol).
• Wear a mask when in public and when around others who do not live in your home.
• Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze by coughing/sneezing into your elbow.
• Promptly dispose of tissues in a wastebasket after use.
• Clean public surfaces thoroughly.
• Stay home when you are sick.
• Avoid shaking hands.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Get a flu vaccine every year.

Are there strategies for coping with the COVID-19 pandemic?
Worry and anxiety can rise about the spread of COVID-19. Concern for friends and family who live in places where COVID-19 is spreading or the progression of the disease is natural.

• Take care of your body. Take deep breaths, stretch or meditate.
• Connect with others. Share your concerns and how you are feeling with a friend or family member. Maintain healthy relationships and a sense of hope and positive thinking.
• Share the facts about COVID-19 and the actual risk to others. People who have returned from areas of ongoing spread more than 14 days ago and do not have symptoms of COVID-19 do not put others at risk.

For more information, see the CDC’s suggestions for mental health and coping during COVID-19.

The symptoms of coronavirus include mild to severe respiratory symptoms. Symptoms include fever, cough, and shortness of breath, and lower respiratory illness. COVID-19 can be contagious before a person begins showing symptoms.

Who can get the COVID-19 vaccine?
Everyone 6 months and older can get the updated COVID-19 vaccine. Staying up to date with all recommended COVID-19 vaccines is the best way to protect yourself from severe illness, hospitalization, and death.

Is the COVID-19 vaccine safe? 
COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective. Hundreds of millions of people have received COVID-19 vaccines under the most intense safety monitoring in U.S. history.

Learn more about the COVID-19 vaccine.

Where can I get the COVID-19 vaccine?
MHS Health can help you find a vaccine provider near you. Call iour Appointment Unit at 1-844-908-0681. We have interpreters if you need one.

To find a vaccine provider, visit vaccines.gov. 

Is the vaccine safe? 
COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective. COVID-19 vaccines were evaluated in large clinical trials. The vaccines met the Food and Drug Administration’s standards for safety, effectiveness, and quality to support use.

Will there be any side effects when I get the vaccine?
You may feel sick after your first or second dose of the vaccine. You could develop a fever, headache, or body aches. This is a normal response. It is important to know that it is impossible to get COVID-19 from the vaccine. The vaccines currently in use and others being developed do not contain a live virus.

Do I have to pay for my vaccine? Or get prior authorization?
The COVID-19 vaccine is free to you. You do not need to get a prior authorization for your vaccine.

Am I required to get my COVID-19 vaccine?
While it is not a requirement, getting your COVID-19 vaccine will give you the best chance of protecting yourself and your loved ones from getting COVID-19 in the future.

I already had COVID-19. Should I still get the vaccine?
Even if you have already had COVID-19, you should still get the vaccine.  It may be possible to be infected more than once, so getting the vaccine is a safe choice.

Can my child get the vaccine?
CDC recommends COVID-19 vaccines for everyone 6 months and older and boosters for everyone 5 years and older, if eligible.

Am I eligible for a booster?
Eligible for 1 booster:

• Everyone ages 5 years and older can get 1 booster after completing their COVID-19 vaccine primary series.

Eligible for 2 boosters:

• Adults ages 50 years and older
• People ages 12 years and older who are moderately or severely immunocompromised
• People who got 2 doses (1 primary dose and 1 booster) of Johnson & Johnson’s Janssen vaccine

I'm pregnant. Should I get the vaccine?
According to the CDC, people who are pregnant may choose to be vaccinated. If you have questions about getting the vaccine, it is recommended to discuss with your doctor to make an informed decision.

When I get the vaccine, can I stop wearing a mask or social distancing?
Fully vaccinated is considered two weeks past final dose, meaning the second dose of the Moderna or Pfizer mRNA vaccine, or, two weeks past the single dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine.

To maximize protection from COVID-19 and prevent possibly spreading it to others, wear a mask indoors in public if you are in an area of substantial of high transmission.

Wearing a mask is most important if you have a weakened immune system or if, because of your age or an underlying medical condition, you are at increased risk for severe disease, or if someone in your household has a weakened immune system, is at increased risk for severe disease, or is unvaccinated. If this applies to you or your household, you might choose to wear a mask regardless of the level of transmission in your area.

Fully vaccinated people who have come into close contact with someone with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 to be tested 3-5 days after exposure, and to wear a mask in public indoor settings for 14 days or until they receive a negative test result.

What do we know about breakthrough cases for people who are fully vaccinated?
A small percentage of people who are fully vaccinated will still get COVID-19 if they are exposed to the virus that causes it. These are called “vaccine breakthrough cases.” This means that while people who have been vaccinated are much less likely to get sick, it will still happen in some cases. It’s also possible that some fully vaccinated people might have infections, but not have symptoms (asymptomatic infections). Experts continue to study how common these cases are.

If you get COVID-19 after vaccination, your symptoms might be less severe

Fully vaccinated people are much less likely to be hospitalized or die than people with similar risk factors who are not vaccinated

Is the vaccine safe?
The safety of the COVID-19 vaccine is a top priority! The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) carefully reviews all safety data from clinical trials and authorizes emergency vaccine use only when the expected benefits outweigh potential risks. COVID-19 vaccines were tested in large clinical trials to make sure they meet safety standards.

Will there be any side effects when I get the vaccine?
You may run a fever after you get the vaccine. This is normal as your body builds immunity and fights off future COVID-19 exposures. You may feel sick after getting vaccinated. You could develop a fever, headache or body aches. This is your body reacting to the vaccine, which is a normal response. It is important to know that it is impossible to get COVID-19 from the vaccine. The vaccines currently in use and others being developed do not contain a live virus.

Do I have to pay for my vaccine? Or get prior authorization?
No. The COVID-19 vaccine will be at no cost to you. You do not need to get a prior authorization for your vaccine.

Why do I need to keep my COVID-19 Vaccination Record Card?
Your vaccination card has information on when and where you received your vaccine as well as other helpful information related to the COVID-19 vaccine. Keep your card in a safe place! You may also visit the Wisconsin Immunization Registry for an electronic version. When taking pictures or posting selfies about getting your COVID-19 vaccine, do not post photos of your vaccination card online so your health information is protected.

I lost my COVID-19 Vaccination Record Card. What should I do now?
Please call the place where you received your first dose. Ask them about your vaccine information and verify your second appointment/location.

I am due for my second dose. Do I have to go to the same provider who gave me my first dose?
The place where you got your first shot should have scheduled an appointment for you to receive the second shot. You can receive your second shot from another place by presenting your COVID-19 Vaccination Record Card.

Can I get a ride to my vaccine appointments?
Your Non-emergency Medical Transportation benefit allows you to schedule a ride to your appointment. Call the state’s transportation provider, MTM, as soon as you confirm you have an appointment, even if it is the same day. Call MTM at 1-866-907-1493 (TTY 711). Please have the following information ready:

• Your ForwardHealth ID card
• The address of where you will get your vaccine

Does my plan cover COVID-19 testing/screening/treatment services?
Yes. When medically necessary diagnostic testing, medical screening services and/or treatment is ordered and/or referred by a licensed health care provider, we will cover the cost of medically necessary COVID-19 tests, screenings, associated physician’s visit(s) and/or treatment. If applicable, your plan’s copayment, coinsurance and/or deductible cost-sharing will be waived for medically necessary COVID-19 diagnostic testing, medical screening services and/or treatment.

Is prior authorization required for COVID-19 testing, screening services and/or treatment under my plan coverage?
No. We will not require prior authorization, prior certification, prior notification and/or step therapy protocols for medically necessary COVID-19 diagnostic testing, medical screening services, and/or treatment when medically necessary services are ordered and/or referred by a licensed health care provider.

Where may I receive COVID-19 testing/screening/treatment services under my plan coverage?
Medically necessary COVID-19 diagnostic testing, medical screening services and/or treatment and the associated physician’s visit will be covered when ordered, referred and/or performed in the following In-Network locations:

• Physician’s/Practitioner’s Office
• Independent Laboratory/Diagnostic Facility   
• Urgent Care Facility
• Emergency Department Facility

Are you unsure if you have been exposed to or at-risk of being infected with COVID-19? Schedule a virtual care visit with a provider. It is a good option for non-urgent care to limit potential exposure in a physician’s office or other healthcare facility. 

Will I be responsible for any out-of-pocket costs for COVID-19 testing/screening/treatment services?
No. We will cover medically necessary COVID-19 diagnostic testing, medical screening services and/or treatment at no charge to you, when such services are ordered and/or referred by a licensed health care provider. If applicable, your plan’s copayment, coinsurance and/or deductible cost-sharing will be waived for medically necessary COVID-19 diagnostic testing, medical screening services and/or treatment, along with the associated physician’s visit.

If I need treatment for coronavirus, is that covered by my plan?
Any medically necessary treatment related to COVID-19 would be considered a covered benefit. We are committed to ensuring access to COVID-19 treatment services in accordance with federal and state law.

Will I be able to refill my prescriptions before the refill date?
Yes, members will be able to refill prescriptions prior to the refill date.

If you have been exposed or begin showing symptoms of the virus or flu, contact your healthcare provider or health department immediately. 

[TELEHEALTH_VENDOR] is a convenient way for [HEALTH_PLAN] members to obtain telehealth services. You will receive [24-hour] access to in-network healthcare providers for non-emergency medical issues. Get medical advice, a diagnosis or a prescription by video or phone. For more information about [HEALTH_PLAN] services, please [visit/call] [WEBSITE] and/or [PHONE NUMBER].

We all have a role to play in protecting our communities and families from the spread of coronavirus. It is similar to other communicable viruses. You can also follow these tips to prevent infection:

• Wash your hands thoroughly and frequently. Use soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
• Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizing rub (must contain at least 60 percent alcohol).
• Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze by coughing/sneezing into your elbow.
• Promptly dispose of tissues in a wastebasket after use.
• Clean public surfaces thoroughly.
• Stay home when you are sick.
• Avoid shaking hands.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Get a flu vaccine.

Stay updated with information from the CDC about how to protect yourself and others.

Yes. When medically necessary diagnostic testing, medical screening services and/or treatment is ordered and/or referred by a licensed health care provider, we will cover the cost of medically necessary COVID-19 tests, screenings, associated physician’s visit(s) and/or treatment. If applicable, your plan’s copayment, coinsurance and/or deductible cost-sharing will be waived for medically necessary COVID-19 diagnostic testing, medical screening services and/or treatment.

No. We will not require prior authorization, prior certification, prior notification and/or step therapy protocols for medically necessary COVID-19 diagnostic testing, medical screening services, and/or treatment when medically necessary services are ordered and/or referred by a licensed health care provider.

Medically necessary COVID-19 diagnostic testing, medical screening services and/or treatment and the associated physician’s visit will be covered when ordered, referred and/or performed in the following In-Network locations:

• Physician’s/Practitioner’s Office
• Independent Laboratory/Diagnostic Facility   
• Urgent Care Facility
• Emergency Department Facility

Are you unsure if you have been exposed to or at-risk of being infected with COVID-19? Schedule a virtual care visit with a provider. It is a good option for non-urgent care to limit potential exposure in a physician’s office or other healthcare facility. 

No. We will cover medically necessary COVID-19 diagnostic testing, medical screening services and/or treatment at no charge to you, when such services are ordered and/or referred by a licensed health care provider. If applicable, your plan’s copayment, coinsurance and/or deductible cost-sharing will be waived for medically necessary COVID-19 diagnostic testing, medical screening services and/or treatment, along with the associated physician’s visit.

Any medically necessary treatment related to COVID-19 would be considered a covered benefit. We are committed to ensuring access to COVID-19 treatment services in accordance with federal and state law.

Worry and anxiety can rise about the spread of COVID-19. Concern for friends and family who live in places where COVID-19 is spreading or the progression of the disease is natural.

• Take care of your body. Take deep breaths, stretch or meditate.
• Connect with others. Share your concerns and how you are feeling with a friend or family member. Maintain healthy relationships and a sense of hope and positive thinking.
• Share the facts about COVID-19 and the actual risk to others. People who have returned from areas of ongoing spread more than 14 days ago and do not have symptoms of COVID-19 do not put others at risk.
• For more information, see the CDC’s suggestions for mental health and coping during COVID-19

Tip #1: Clean your phone right now

Drop what you’re doing! Clean your phone and case right now! You can use disinfecting wipes or sprays.

Why is this important?

It’s easy to say “I can always clean my phone later”. If you do it right now, you won’t forget! We’ve also told you how so you don’t have to figure that out on your own.

Tip #2: Use an alarm

Set a phone alarm called “clean phone.” Set an alarm on your phone called “clean phone” once per day. When it goes off, clean your phone right then and there!

Why is this important?

Even if you just cleaned your phone right now, you’re going to forget later! That’s why reminders are so important. You’ll have to clean.

Protect yourself and those around you. Please consider the following before returning to adult day services.

• If you feel sick, stay home.
  • Avoid public places.
  • Contact your health care provider.
• Practice healthy habits.
  • Wash your hands after touching public surfaces.
  • Avoid touching your face.
  • Sneeze or cough into a tissue. You can also use the inside of your elbow.
  • Clean frequently used items and surfaces as much as possible.
  • Use a face mask while in public.
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and frequent hand washing
  • Your provider may require a face covering and gloves during a visit. They may also require frequent hand washing.
  • Your service plan may be updated based on how you tolerate these changes.
• This has been a stressful time. If it’s affecting your mental health, you may need to speak to someone.

As a MHS Health Wisconsin member, you have access to health professionals 24/7. You can call the 24/7 Nurse Advice Line for non-emergencies. For more information about this service, call us at 1-888-713-6180.

It’s important to change how we use public spaces. Consider whether you need to touch certain objects and surfaces. Be sure to wipe public items before and after you touch them.

Things to be aware of while at your adult day center.

We have all had to make changes to reduce the spread of COVID-19. To reopen, we will need to continue these safe practices.

• Social distancing
  • Stay 6 feet away from others when going into a shared space.
• Wash your hands.
  • Wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
  • Use sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol when soap and water are not available
• Wear a face covering.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
• Stay home when sick.
• Clean frequently touched items and surfaces.

It’s important to follow state and local guidance as we reopen. This will help you to change your plan as situations change.

Make sure your provider has a plan to maintain a safe environment.

When you return home from your adult day center.

We should think about our safety and the safety of others. The following can help reduce the spread of COVID-19.

• Disinfect “high touch” surfaces and items every day.
  • This includes personal devices and electronics.
  • Be sure to follow the cleaning product’s instructions.
• Consider changing your clothes before entering your home.

If you cannot return to your adult day center

As a MHS Health Wisconsin member, you may have respite hours available for your caregiver. These may be used if you cannot return to your day service program. For more information, call us at 1-888-713-6180.

There are many COVID-19 resources, services, and relief programs available in your own community. 

Get COVID-19 Community Assistance