As of Wednesday, Jan. 5, Rio Blanco County Public Health was reporting 32 active cases in Meeker and 18 active cases in Rangely in the last 14 days, with two new hospitalizations.
The Omicron variant, which is surging nationwide, has been confirmed in the county and is expected to be the dominant strain, with an increase in breakthrough and reinfection rates showing up this week.
updated isolation & quarantine guidelines
Isolation and quarantine guidelines have been updated by the CDC. Visit https://covid19.colorado.gov/isolation-and-quarantine for the latest information.
TESTING
Please be advised that testing for COVID-19 is recommended for all symptomatic individuals (please see CDC website for list of symptoms), and all individuals who are exposed to a known case. It is advised to test 5 days after your last known exposure, or as soon as possible after you begin to develop symptoms. Testing is now available without an appointment, drive-up at the following times at public health in Meeker and Rangely.
New schedule beginning January 3rd, 2022:
• Meeker: Monday, Wednesday and Friday 10am-11am, Thursdays ONLY 10am-2pm. Rapid tests not available on Thursdays.
• Rangely: Monday 1pm-2pm, Wednesdays 10am-2pm, and Friday 9-10am. Rapid tests not available on Wednesdays.
We will be closed for testing on Monday, Jan. 17.
Please see the following link for information about Colorado’s at-home testing program: https://covid19.colorado.gov/covid-19-testing-at-home
Travel testing is available at RBC Public Health. We offer same day rapid molecular testing for $45. Please check travel requirements for your specific destination.
VACCINATIONS
Vaccinations for COVID-19 (5 and up) and Flu available – All Insurance accepted. COVID-19 vaccines are FREE of charge. Booster doses are now available for anyone in Colorado over the age of 16, as long as 6 months have passed since initial MRNA series or 2 months since initial J&J dose.
Walk-In clinics (no appointment necessary):
• Meeker: Thursdays, 12:00 – 5:30 pm (Meeker Public Health Office)- 200 Main St (Fairfield Center)
• Rangely: Wednesdays, 12:00 – 5:30 pm (Rangely Public Health Office)- 101 E Main St (across from the library)
Please call to schedule an appointment for all other vaccines, including shingles, pneumonia, and childhood immunizations. Walk-ins for flu shots are welcomed on other days based on nurse availability.
• Other Clinic Locations and Times: Pioneers Medical Center Walk-In Clinic: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9:00 – noon and 2:00 – 4:00 pm (Johnson & Johnson and Moderna available)
Special to the Herald Times