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Information about COVID-19

Kern Family Health Care wants our members to stay safe and healthy. Following the steps below can help keep your family safe from severe illness caused by COVID-19.

What is COVID-19 and long COVID?

COVID-19 is a type of coronavirus that causes disease. COVID-19 can cause no symptoms, mild, cold-like symptoms, or severe symptoms that can require hospitalization. People who have had COVID-19 may have long-term effects from the infection called “long COVID”. Click here to learn more about long COVID.

How do I get care if I have symptoms?

  • Call your doctor or clinic to find out how to get tested or treatment. Click here for test-to-treat providers.
  • KFHC will cover the cost of medically necessary screenings and testing at a medical provider office for COVID-19 and long COVID.
  • Many of our contracted providers provide telehealth.
  • Medi-Cal Rx will cover the cost of prescriptions for your treatment and at-home tests. Click here to find out how to get an at-home COVID test kit through Medi-Cal Rx.
  • Call Medi-Cal Rx at 1.800.977.2273 if you have questions about a prescription.
  • You can call Kern Family Health Care at 632.1590(Bakersfield) or 800.391.2000 (outside of Bakersfield) 24 hours a day/7 days a week. If you want to talk to a doctor over the phone for free, M-F 8a-5p, except for holidays, then press "0".
  • You can also talk to a nurse over the phone for free by calling the KFHC 24 Hour Advice Nurse Line at 632.1590(Bakersfield) or 800.391.2000 (outside of Bakersfield). The nurse will help you and send you to a doctor if you need medical care.

What if I need a ride?

How can I protect myself and my family?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends the following to help protect you and your family from severe illness caused by COVID-19:

  • Get vaccinated and boosted. Click here to find out more about vaccines.
  • Stay away from others who are sick.
  • Stay away from others if you are sick.
  • If you need to be treated by your PCP or specialist, ask your provider if you can have a telehealth appointment.
  • Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
  • Use hand sanitizer if you are not able to use soap and water.
  • Try not to touch your eyes, nose, and mouth before you wash your hands.
  • If your pharmacy offers delivery, ask them to deliver your prescription or at-home testing kit.
  • Use a tissue or your sleeve to cover your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing.
  • Clean objects and surfaces that are used a lot with a disinfectant cleaner.
  • Wear a mask if you are positive for COVID-19 or you have symptoms until you can get tested.

Is there a treatment for COVID-19 if I test positive or have long COVID?

There are treatments for COVID-19 or long COVID. If you feel sick, call your doctor right away or go to the nearest urgent care. You may get treatment from your doctor. Click here to find out what to do if you are sick or if you are caring for someone who is sick.

If you test positive for COVID-19, click here to follow the CDC's tips for staying safe.

Some health care providers offer test-to-treat services. Click here to find an office that offers test-to-treat services.

What if I have a weak immune system?

You may have a weak immune system (also called immunocompromised) if your doctor has told you that your health condition makes you more likely to get very sick from COVID-19. If so, it is very important for you to stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines and to follow the steps that help protect you from getting COVID-19.

Where can I learn more about COVID-19 or long COVID?

CDC About COVID-19 English

CDC Acera del COVID-19 Spanish

CDC Long COVID or Post-COVID Conditions English

CDC Afecciones persistentes al COVID-19 y afecciones posteriors al COVID-19 Spanish

California Department of Public Health Latest Updates and Information English

California Department of Public Health Últimas actualizaciones e información

Click here to find out more about the COVID-19 vaccine and its safety.

State and Local Resources

Other helpful resources

California COVID-19 Information Line 833.544.2374

In partnership with 2-1-1 Kern County. A one-stop shop to answer your questions and get assistance during this crisis. For example, helps seniors get grocery and medication delivery while staying at home.

Kern Family Health Care Member Letter (English and Spanish)

Resources for families

Resources for senior citizens

Available 24 Hours a day/7 days a week - dial 2-1-1 to be connected with an Information and Referral Specialist who utilizes a resource directory to research and provide the information requested.

State and Local Resources

Other helpful resources

California COVID-19 Information Line 833.544.2374

In partnership with 2-1-1 Kern County. A one-stop shop to answer your questions and get assistance during this crisis. For example, helps seniors get grocery and medication delivery while staying at home.

Kern Family Health Care Member Letter (Bilingual)

English and Spanish

Resources for families

Resources for senior citizens

Kern County Aging and Adult Services 800.510.2020

Institute on Aging's "Friendship Line" 800.971.0016

Provides a 24-Hour helpline and crisis line for older adults

“Feeling Good & Staying Connected”

Activity guide and weekly planner

English Guide Guía en Español

ACEs Aware – COVID-19 Stress Management Resources

Elder or Dependent Adult Abuse that occurred in Kern County 24 Hour Hotline: 800.277.7866

American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) Fraud Watch Helpline: 877.908.3360

Alzheimer’s Association 24 Hour Helpline: 800.272.3900

2-1-1 Kern County

Available 24 Hours a day/7 days a week - dial 2-1-1 to be connected with an Information and Referral Specialist who utilizes a resource directory to research and provide the information requested.