COVID-19: What You Need to Know

As the COVID-19 situation continues to evolve, we will post updated information on Hudson Headwaters’ mask policy here, plus the latest on testing, vaccines and other resources.

Hudson Headwaters’ Current Mask Policy

Masks are currently optional for staff, patients and visitors of Hudson Headwaters Health Network facilities. We ask that you wear a mask if you have respiratory symptoms, fever or a rash. Masks are available free of charge at all health centers.

We appreciate your cooperation and understanding as we do our best to keep our patients and staff healthy.

Your COVID-19 Vaccine Options

At Hudson Headwaters Health Centers

The 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccine is available for those ages six months and up at many Hudson Headwaters health centers. Contact your health center for more information.

If you have already received your COVID-19 vaccine at another facility, please help us update your patient record by sending a message to your health care team through your Patient Portal.

We are here to help! If you have any questions or concerns regarding the vaccine, we urge you to contact your health care team by phone or via the Patient Portal to discuss.

At Local Pharmacies

Local pharmacies offer vaccinations and boosters. Visit www.vaccines.gov or https://coronavirus.health.ny.gov/home to find vaccine options available (including boosters) near you.

Testing

Vaccinations, testing and masks remain some of the best tools we have to prevent the further spread of COVID-19. We highly recommend that you get vaccinated, boosted and test as needed.

Home Tests

Starting at the end of September 2024, every U.S. household can order four free COVID-19 rapid tests that will be delivered to them. Click here to order yours.

Check with your insurance company, pharmacy, local public health department or call your health center if you need additional at-home test kits.

Please check expiration dates on at-home test kits before use. Some test kits have extended expiration dates. Click here for more information.

If you have a positive at-home test, please follow these instructions and isolate from others. If you do not have any symptoms, or you have only minor symptoms such as a stuffy nose or mild sore throat, please monitor your condition at home; you may not need to be seen by a provider. If you have any questions or concerns about your symptoms, please reach out to your provider. You do not need an alternative test to verify a positive result unless your employer requires it.

If you are not yet a Hudson Headwaters patient, COVID-19 and antibody testing are available with a brief visit with one of our providers. This visit can be within a health center, urgent care, or in some cases, a telehealth appointment.

Please call your Hudson Headwaters health center if you are experiencing symptoms, have been in close contact with a confirmed case, and/or have recently traveled to a country with an outbreak. Be ready to explain your symptoms, travel history and/or if you were exposed to coronavirus. Luckily, most patients only experience mild symptoms and will recover. For public safety, we strongly encourage home management when appropriate.

COVID Testing FAQs

Symptoms

Symptoms of COVID-19 include:

  • Fever of over 100.0 F
  • Cough
  • Shortness of breath (chest congestion)
  • Chills
  • Muscle pain
  • Sore throat
  • Loss of taste or smell
  • Nausea, vomiting or diarrhea

COVID-19 Prevention

You can prevent the spread of COVID-19 by:

  • Washing your hands often
  • Using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available
  • Covering your cough or sneeze with a tissue or coughing/sneezing into your elbow
  • Regularly cleaning and disinfecting often-touched surfaces
  • Practicing social distancing
  • Wearing a mask or face covering when out in public to prevent spreading germs to others
  • Getting the vaccine