COVID-19 Update with Dr. Santiago of Dutchess Behavioral Health

It's February 2022 and the COVID-19 pandemic is still raging across the country and in the Hudson Valley.

This past winter, we faced one of the biggest spikes in Coronavirus numbers due to the newer Omicron COVID-19 variant. With that being said, we sat down and talked with the newly appointed Commissioner of the Department of Behavioral & Community Health for Dutchess County, Dr. Livia Santiago-Rosado.

In our conversation, we asked Dr. Santiago some of the most popular COVID-related questions. Of course, we had to ask if COVID is still prominent in our Hudson Valley community. Unfortunately, Dr. Santiago believes that COVID hasn't gone away and because of its viral infection status, it most likely won't go away any time soon.

With that being said, Dr Santiago stresses the importance of following preventative measures like masking up in large gatherings, staying home if you feel sick and of course getting vaccinated and getting your booster once you're eligible.

If you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, Dr. Santiago suggests you get a test in any way you can. Whether it be an at-home test, going to a medical facility or going to one of the government-run facilities. In Dutchess County, you can find a testing location at the old JCPenney store at the Poughkeepsie Galleria. While there you can also get a free N-95 mask and your COVID-19 vaccine.

For more information regarding the COVID-19 pandemic and how to protect yourself and your family, visit DutchessCountyNY.gov.

At the end of the day, if you're feeling sick get tested and isolate for the allotted amount of time.