Fredericksburg Parent

www.FredericksburgParent.NET 25 To access the latest CDC standards for quarantine and isolation, visit tinyurl.com/mk65n7e4. IT'S GETTING EASIER TO FIND A TEST Use the QR code to find a testing appointment near you. A Community Testing Center (CTC) for COVID-19 tests is now open in Fredericksburg at the Fredericksburg Nationals Stadium 42 Jackie Robinson Way, Fredericksburg, VA 22401 This center was authorized by the Virginia Department of Health, in an effort make provide free, reliable tests more widely available to Virginia families. The CTC offers PCR tests. Considered to be the most reliable measure of infection, these tests deliver results in two to three days. The center will operate by appointments only and be open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday to Thursday. Testing is available for individuals ages 3 and older. RAHD is encouraging those with appointments who have found testing elsewhere or know they will be unable to arrive at their scheduled time to please can- cel their appointment so that others may then schedule to be tested. Rapid tests have also been in high demand. Federal efforts are under way to make these tests more widely available. The Central Rappahannock Regional Library has been serving as a distribution point for free at-home COVID tests. While supply is limited, you can find out if any are available and reserve a test for curbside pickup at librarypoint.org. MASKS ARE FOR EVERYONE'S PROTECTION One thing we have learned over the past two years about this virus is that individuals can still spread it, even if they don't show symptoms that might lead them to seek a test. That is why masks are still such an important tool in man- aging the rate of infection. When worn correctly and consistently, masks can prevent you from spreading the virus to others through exhaled droplets, and can protect you from con- tracting the virus by inhaling droplets spread by others. All masks are not created equal. Here are features to look for to ensure the mask you choose will offer the best protection for you and your family mem- bers. Parents should consult with their school's medical staff as they select masks for their children, as many area schools have issued more specific guide- lines in recent weeks. A good mask should: • Fit snugly but comfortably against the side of the face with no gaps. • Completely cover the nose and mouth. • Have two or more layers of fabric. The tighter the weave, the better. • Be secured with ties or ear loops. • Have a nose wire that can close gaps around the nose. • Block light when held up to a bright light source. • Allow for breathing without restriction. Parents can talk to their children about why the choice to wear a mask in public places is not only a way to protect your family from illness, but also a way to show compassion for others, by reducing the chance of spreading the virus. GOOD HABITS ARE GOOD FOR EVERYBODY Some of the habits that help us mitigate COVID-19 spread are important lessons for children to learn that will still apply, even after the pandemic eases. Teach children to wash their hands for at least 20 seconds with warm water and soap, and to do so after every trip to the bathroom, after returning home from being outside the house, and always before eating or handling food. It is important for individuals to stay home and not come to schools and workplaces when expe- riencing symptoms such as a fever, sore throat, cough or body aches. This is important not only for preventing the spread of COVID-19, but also for other illnesses such as flu and other viruses. While COVID-19 quarantine and isolation guide- lines have been recently updated by the CDC, it's important to check with your school and employer about their specific guidelines, as different organi- zations may have different standards. Stay tuned to the Fredericksburg Parent Facebook and YouTube channels in February for a video with more information from the Rappahannock Area Health District.

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