COVID-19 NATIONAL EMERGENCY & PUBLIC HEALTH EMERGENCY ENDING
The COVID-19 National Emergency will end on May 11, 2023, but includes an additional 60-day period to extend deadlines for COBRA elections/payments, HIPAA Special Enrollment, Appeals, and member submitted Claims. These deadlines will return to normal timeframes starting July 11, 2023.
The COVID-19 Public Health Emergency will end on May 11, 2023, removing the federally mandated coverage requirements for COVID-19 testing, related services, treatments and vaccinations. A summary of changes that will begin May 12, 2023, can be found here.
Blue Medicare Advantage summary of changes that will begin May 12, 2023, can be found here.
COVID-19 Information
COVID-19 SYMPTOMS
Anyone can contract the novel coronavirus. But older adults and people with severe underlying conditions like heart disease, lung disease or diabetes seem to be more at risk for developing serious complications from COVID-19 illness. Most people have mild illness and are able to recover at home.
People with COVID-19 have reported a wide range of symptoms – from mild symptoms to severe illness.
- Fever or chills
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue
- Muscle or body aches
- Headache
- New loss of taste or smell
- Sore throat
- Congestion or runny nose
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea
If you develop emergency warning signs, * call 911 and seek medical care right away.
- Difficulty breathing
- Persistent pain or pressure in the chest
- New confusion
- Inability to wake or stay awake
- Blush lips or face
*This list is not all inclusive. Consult your doctor for any other symptoms that are severe or concerning.
Go to the Testing page to learn about your in-network testing options.
Know your care options
Use the guide below to know where to go if you are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms, from mild to severe, or for behavioral health support.
Frequently Asked Questions
We’ve curated the most commonly asked questions about coronavirus symptoms. Here they are – with answers of course – in one convenient place.
How long does it take to show symptoms of COVID-19?
Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus.
What should I do if I’m experiencing symptoms of COVID-19?
Consider using the CDC’s Symptom Checker to help you make decisions and seek appropriate medical care.
If you are experiencing the above symptoms and you believe you may have been exposed to COVID-19 take the following action:
-
Call your healthcare provider and share your symptoms and concerns of being exposed to COVID-19.
- Alternatively, you can use Blue KC Virtual Care.
- Follow your provider’s guidance on next steps. They may:
- Suggest you self-quarantine until you’re able to take a test.
- Recommend you be tested for influenza or other illnesses first.
- Provide self-care tips.
- Do your best to avoid close contact with others and practice safe disinfecting and cleaning behaviors including:
- Cover your mouth
- Wash your hands
- Disinfect surfaces you use (kitchen and bathroom counters, tables, drawers, etc.)
- Monitor your symptoms and keep your healthcare provider informed of any changes.
I don’t have a primary care doctor. Who can I call if I’m experiencing symptoms?
Unless an emergency, consider alternatives to in-person ER visits:
- Use Blue KC Virtual Care. The 24/7 app is available to you and all your covered family members.
- Call your local Urgent Care Center.
Healthcare facilities and virtual care platforms may be experiencing an influx of calls from their patients during this time. You may experience longer than normal wait times when contacting your provider.
