COVID-19 Information

doctor and patient wearing mask

This page will be updated as information as new information is received. If you have questions after reviewing our website, you may contact the COVID-19 Hotline at (541) 699-5109 Monday-Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. 

What is COVID-19

  • COVID-19 is a disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 in the coronavirus family.  It spreads easily through the air and also by mucus droplets produced from an infected person’s nose or mouth.  It is very contagious and can easily spread in crowded and poorly ventilated spaces. 
  • It causes respiratory symptoms that can feel much like a cold, a flu, or pneumonia.  Most people with COVID-19 have mild symptoms, but some people become severely ill and can die. 

Testing

  • COVID-19 rapid antigen (at home tests) can be purchased at pharmacies throughout our area.   More accurate PCR molecular testing is available at health care providers including emergency rooms and urgent care centers.  

    More COVID-19 Test information

Treatments

  • There are several FDA-authorized or approved antiviral medications used to treat mild to moderate COVID-19 in people who are more likely to get very sick. They target specific parts of the virus to stop it from multiplying in your body.   

    Most people with COVID-19 have mild illness and can recover at home. Symptoms may be treated with over-the-counter medicines, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil). However, people who are more likely to get very sick including older adults (ages 50 years or more, risk increasing with age), people who are unvaccinated, and people with certain medical conditions, such as chronic lung disease, heart disease, or a weakened immune system should consult their provider or urgent care for treatment options.  

Get a vaccine to decrease your risk of severe disease

If you are looking for COVID-19 vaccination at retail pharmacies and/or local healthcare provider clinics, visit www.vaccines.gov to search for locations. 

Deschutes County Immunization program offers many different vaccines primarily for those that are uninsured or underinsured. COVID-19 and Flu vaccines are available  by appointment at weekly clinics.   

More information about COVID-19 vaccines

Information about disease tracking 

 

Information about Wastewater

Oregon's Sars-CoV-2 Wastewater Monitoring 

Vaccination Metrics 

Oregon’s Respiratory virus Data 

Local respiratory reports