The COVID emergency is set to end in May. What does it mean to Delaware?

President Joe Biden’s administration announced on Monday that the COVID-19 emergency is scheduled to end this spring.  

Nearly three years since pandemic measures were implemented to address public health concerns, the COVID-19 national emergency and Public Health Emergency (PHE), put in place in 2020 by then-president Donald Trump, are now scheduled to end on May 11.  

Biden has extended the measures several times, allowing American to continue receiving free COVID tests, vaccines and treatments. Now, the emergency will be extended a final time before terminating in May, the White House’s Office of Management and Budget has announced.

What does this mean for Delaware? 

Under the PHE, the government has been paying for COVID-19 vaccines, various tests and testing options and certain treatments. When the COVID-19 emergency ends, the costs of these services will be transferred to private insurance and government health plans.  

“While we don’t yet know all of the specifics, it is likely that some people will face out-of-pocket costs for at-home testing and some treatment,” said Tim Turane, a spokesperson for the Delaware Division of Public Health (DPH). “Updates to existing programming will be communicated to the public. 

COVID vaccine information:Yes, people are getting sick. And yes, you should still get your flu shot, COVID booster

What should you do before May 11?  

COVID protective measures for individuals remain the same despite the PHE ending in a few months.  

DPH encourages Delawareans to monitor local COVID statistics and assess their own health risks to protect themselves. 

It is recommended that individuals continue to get vaccinated and get the updated booster if they haven’t had a vaccine or booster since the end of August.  

Where can I get a free COVID-19 test in Delaware?

Currently, Delaware has a variety of locations offering free COVID testing. COVID vaccines, including updated boosters, have been offered at DPH clinics, many local pharmacies, community events and Federally Qualifies Health Centers.

Vaccine information also can be found at de.gov/getmyvaccine or vaccines.gov. 

Other protective measures include wearing masks in indoor public settings or around others when cases are elevated, if you have a weakened immune system or chronic health condition, or if you provide care for someone who does.  

If you have COVID symptoms, DPH recommends you stay home and get tested. If your results are positive, talk to your health care provider about treatments.