San Diego County public health officials on Thursday urged people to stay up to date on their COVID-19 vaccines and get tested if they feel sick as summer travel continues and positive cases of the illness caused by the virus increase.
The positivity rate for COVID-19 tests has risen to more than 14%, and wastewater monitoring, which can detect the amount of virus active in an area, has increased both across California and in San Diego, according to the county public health department.
“We encourage everyone to take precautions so you can stay healthy while enjoying summer activities,” said Interim Public Health Officer Dr. Ankita Kadakia. “If you have any symptoms of COVID-19 or have recently been in contact with someone with COVID-19, please get yourself and your household tested. If you haven’t yet gotten vaccinated, now is also a great time to get vaccinated.”
To increase access to testing, the County has expanded the availability of free testing at local public health centers. Appointments are strongly encouraged, but walk-in testing is available based on availability.
The locations are as follows:
— Central Regional Public Health Center, 1501 Market St., San Diego, Monday and Wednesday from 9 a.m. to noon and 1 to 3 p.m.
— South Regional Public Health Center, 690 Oxford St., Chula Vista, Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to noon and 1 to 3 p.m.
— Eastern Regional Public Health Center, 460 N. Magnolia Ave., Ste. A, El Cajon, Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9 a.m. to noon and 1 to 3 p.m.
The improved version of the COVID-19 vaccine, released in fall 2023, is “an effective way to protect people from developing severe symptoms,” public health officials said. A second dose of the 2023-2024 formulation is safe and is recommended for people 65 and older and those with underlying health conditions until the 2024-25 COVID-19 vaccine is available.
Vaccination is especially recommended for pregnant women, those with underlying medical conditions and adults aged 65 and older.
People can visit MyTurn.ca.gov or contact their local pharmacy or health care provider to schedule a vaccination appointment.
County Public Health Centers continue to provide vaccines to uninsured individuals and are participating in vaccination outreach efforts in underserved areas. For more information, visit coronavirus-sd.com.
