General
COVID-19 Call Center ScriptContents TOC \o "1-3" \h \z \u General Call Center Guidelines PAGEREF _Toc55396743 \h 4Calls Requiring Immediate Referral PAGEREF _Toc55396744 \h 4Disease History and Background PAGEREF _Toc55396745 \h 5Disease Basics, Signs, Symptoms, Incubation Period, Severity PAGEREF _Toc55396746 \h 7COVID-19 Transmission and Risk PAGEREF _Toc55396747 \h 10Public Health Advisory System (Risk Alert System) PAGEREF _Toc55396748 \h 15Isolation and Quarantine PAGEREF _Toc55396749 \h 17Contact Tracing PAGEREF _Toc55396750 \h 21Prevention: General PAGEREF _Toc55396751 \h 25Prevention: Personal Protective Equipment PAGEREF _Toc55396752 \h 27Face Coverings, Masks and Respirators PAGEREF _Toc55396753 \h 29Men, Beards/Facial Hair and Masks or N-95 Respirators PAGEREF _Toc55396754 \h 33Reprocessing PPE PAGEREF _Toc55396755 \h 33Prevention: Healthcare Infection Control Training PAGEREF _Toc55396756 \h 34Infection Prevention Training for Long Term Care Facilities PAGEREF _Toc55396757 \h 34Project Firstline PAGEREF _Toc55396758 \h 35Alcohol-Based Hand Sanitizer, Non-Alcohol Based Hand Sanitizer and Disinfectants PAGEREF _Toc55396759 \h 35Testing PAGEREF _Toc55396760 \h 38Treatment Information PAGEREF _Toc55396761 \h 47COVID-19 Vaccine PAGEREF _Toc55396762 \h 49Influenza PAGEREF _Toc55396763 \h 49Influenza, COVID-19, Respiratory Infection Prevention PAGEREF _Toc55396764 \h 83COVID-19 in Ohio, US and Other Countries PAGEREF _Toc55396765 \h 85COVID-19, Pregnancy and Breastfeeding PAGEREF _Toc55396766 \h 85COVID-19 and Children PAGEREF _Toc55396767 \h 90Custody and Parenting PAGEREF _Toc55396768 \h 93COVID-19, Renters, Foreclosure and Eviction PAGEREF _Toc55396769 \h 94Sector Specific Guidance PAGEREF _Toc55396770 \h 95Adult Day and Senior Centers PAGEREF _Toc55396771 \h 95Athletic/Sports PAGEREF _Toc55396772 \h 96Barber Shops, Hair Salons, Tattoo Parlors PAGEREF _Toc55396773 \h 97Camping and Campgrounds, State Parks PAGEREF _Toc55396774 \h 97Casinos and Racinos PAGEREF _Toc55396775 \h 98Child Care PAGEREF _Toc55396776 \h 98Congregate Settings – Group Home PAGEREF _Toc55396777 \h 100Consumer, Retail, Services & Entertainment PAGEREF _Toc55396778 \h 104Coroner PAGEREF _Toc55396779 \h 110Corrections, Prisons and Jails PAGEREF _Toc55396780 \h 111Dental Board PAGEREF _Toc55396781 \h 114Deputy Registrar PAGEREF _Toc55396782 \h 114Drivers Examination Services PAGEREF _Toc55396783 \h 114Funeral Director PAGEREF _Toc55396784 \h 115General Office Environments PAGEREF _Toc55396785 \h 116Gyms, Dance Instruction Studios, and Other Personal Fitness Venues PAGEREF _Toc55396786 \h 116Healthcare and Hospitals PAGEREF _Toc55396787 \h 116Mental Health and Addiction PAGEREF _Toc55396788 \h 117COVID-19 and Opioid Treatment (Medication Assistance Programs, Suboxone) PAGEREF _Toc55396789 \h 118Liquor Carryout, Excess, Licensing PAGEREF _Toc55396790 \h 118Local and Public Pools and Aquatic Centers PAGEREF _Toc55396791 \h 119Manufacturing, Distribution & Construction PAGEREF _Toc55396792 \h 120Office Environments PAGEREF _Toc55396793 \h 121Nursing Homes PAGEREF _Toc55396794 \h 122COVID-19 Health Care Isolation Centers (HCICs) PAGEREF _Toc55396795 \h 123Testing for Skilled Nursing Facilities Ohio National Guard PAGEREF _Toc55396796 \h 124In-House COVID-19 Testing for Skilled Nursing Facilities (Information from CMS) PAGEREF _Toc55396797 \h 124Public Assistance PAGEREF _Toc55396798 \h 130Religious Services PAGEREF _Toc55396799 \h 132Residential Camps PAGEREF _Toc55396800 \h 133Restaurants/Bars PAGEREF _Toc55396801 \h 133Schools PAGEREF _Toc55396802 \h 136Colleges, Schools with Traveling Students and Boarding Schools PAGEREF _Toc55396803 \h 136K-12 Schools PAGEREF _Toc55396804 \h 138K-12 School and Collegiate Band, Choir, Dance Teams and Other Similar Performance Activities PAGEREF _Toc55396805 \h 140K-12 Busses PAGEREF _Toc55396806 \h 140K-12 Contact Tracing PAGEREF _Toc55396807 \h 140Small Businesses, not otherwise addressed PAGEREF _Toc55396808 \h 142Performing Arts Theaters PAGEREF _Toc55396809 \h 143Travel PAGEREF _Toc55396810 \h 143Receiving Packages PAGEREF _Toc55396811 \h 148I Am Worried/Upset PAGEREF _Toc55396812 \h 149Stigma and COVID-19 PAGEREF _Toc55396813 \h 150Minorities, Disparities and COVID-19 PAGEREF _Toc55396814 \h 152Animals PAGEREF _Toc55396815 \h 155Local Health Departments, LTC Facilities, and Healthcare Providers PAGEREF _Toc55396816 \h 156Ohioans Protecting Ohioans Urgent Health Advisory PAGEREF _Toc55396817 \h 161Reopening Ohio After Stay at Home Order PAGEREF _Toc55396818 \h 164National and State Recommendations/Orders/Changes PAGEREF _Toc55396819 \h 169COVID-19 Research in Ohio PAGEREF _Toc55396820 \h 176Holidays PAGEREF _Toc55396821 \h 176Other Referral Contact Numbers (Not Immediate) PAGEREF _Toc55396822 \h 178Ohio Department of Aging PAGEREF _Toc55396823 \h 178Ohio Office of the Ombudsman PAGEREF _Toc55396824 \h 178Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services PAGEREF _Toc55396825 \h 179Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Corrections PAGEREF _Toc55396826 \h 180Ohio Local Health Departments PAGEREF _Toc55396827 \h 180Utilities PAGEREF _Toc55396828 \h 180General Call Center GuidelinesWhen answering a call for the ODH COVID-19 call center, please use the following greeting:“Ohio Department of Health COVID-19 information line, this is (YOUR NAME) how may I assist you?”When concluding a call for the ODH COVID-19 call center, please use the following closing:“Is there any additional information that you need?” (answer the question or if none continue)“This is an evolving situation and information may change as we learn more about this disease. If you have question after this call, please visit the Ohio Department of Health (ODH) coronavirus website (coronavirus.) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website () for the most up-to-date information.”“Thank you for calling the Ohio Department of Health.”At the end of each shift, provide a written summary of the most common questions and report them to the call center supervisor. Calls Requiring Immediate ReferralCaller is distraught/struggling/suicidal.Transfer for COVID-19 Care Line from MHAS at 1-800-720-9616. Agent should remain on the line until successful connection to Care Line is reached. Caller may have been exposed to COVID-19 and has emergency warning signs* for severe COVID-19. If someone is showing any of these signs, seek emergency medical care immediately:Trouble breathingPersistent pain or pressure in the chestNew confusionInability to wake or stay awakeBluish lips or face*This list is not all possible symptoms. Please call your medical provider for any other symptoms that are severe or concerning to you.Call 9-1-1 or call ahead to your local emergency facility: Notify the operator that you are seeking care for someone who has or may have COVID-19. Agent should remain on the line until successful connection to 9-1-1.SOURCE: Caller speaks a language besides English and needs translation services. Transfer call to the call center supervisor to get translation services set up. Complaints regarding long-term care or non-long-term care facilities (for example: healthcare personnel not wearing PPE, people not washing their hands, abuse or general facility complaints, etc.):Please refer these callers to either the complaint line, 1-800-342-0553, or the ODH website where the complaint form can be filled out electronically. The complainant may choose to be anonymous. Disease History and BackgroundWhat is novel coronavirus or COVID-19?A novel coronavirus means that it is new. The virus causing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), is not the same as the coronaviruses that commonly circulate among humans and cause mild illness, like the common cold. (Add only if the caller asks about other coronaviruses:) 229E, NL63, OC43, or HKU1 are common. Follow your care plan. Patients with COVID-19 will be evaluated and cared for differently than patients with common coronaviruses.SOURCE: What is the name of the virus that causes COVID-19?The virus is called severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, shortened to SARS-CoV-2.(Add only if the caller asks for more detailed information) The virus is related to the SARS-associated coronavirus (SARS-CoV2) that caused an outbreak of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) in 2002-2003; however, it is not the same virus.SOURCE: What is coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)?Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a respiratory illness. It can spread from person-to-person. It mainly spreads by droplets from coughing and sneezing. The virus that causes COVID-19 is a novel (new) virus. It was first identified during an outbreak in Wuhan, China in December 2019. The World Health Organization (WHO) named it. ‘CO’ stands for ‘corona,’ ‘VI’ for ‘virus,’ and ‘D’ for disease. Formerly, this disease was referred to as “2019 novel coronavirus” or “2019-nCoV.”SOURCES: is the source of the virus that causes COVID-19?Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses. Some cause sickness in people, and others, such as canine and feline coronaviruses, only in animals. Rarely, animal coronaviruses can infect people. Once that happens the coronavirus can spread between people. This is suspected to have occurred for the virus that causes COVID-19. (Add only if the caller asks for more detailed information) Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) are two other examples of coronaviruses that originated in animals and then spread to people.) SOURCE: : What is known about the history of COVID-19? Significant dates for the world, the US and Ohio?LocationFirst Case (Reported)First Death (Reported)Source for Current StatusWorldWuhan, China12/29/2019 StatesSeattle, WA, (Exp. Wuhan Traveler)01/20/202002/29/2020 County (Exp. Nile River Cruise)03/9/202003/19/2020Coronavirus.* Look-back tracing First US Death 02/06/2020: and Is the coronavirus that causes COVID-19 the same as MERS-CoV or SARS-CoV-2?No, SARS-CoV-2 is one of a large family of viruses. SARS-CoV-2 is different than MERS-CoV or SARS-CoV.SOURCE: My child, sister, brother, spouse, parent, significant other, etc. tested positive for a non-COVID-19 Coronavirus (OC43, 229E, HKU1 or NL63), should I be worried?No. Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses. Coronavirus OC43, 229E, HKU1 or NL63 are common. They are not the new coronavirus that was first identified in Wuhan, Hubei Province, China. SOURCE: Disease Basics, Signs, Symptoms, Incubation Period, SeverityWhat are the signs and symptoms of COVID-19?People with COVID-19 have had a wide range of symptoms reported – ranging from mild symptoms to severe illness. Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus. People with these symptoms may have COVID-19:Fever or chillsCoughShortness of breath or difficulty breathingFatigueMuscle or body achesHeadacheNew loss of taste or smellSore throatCongestion or runny noseNausea or vomitingDiarrheaThis list does not include all possible symptoms. Symptoms differ with severity of disease. For example, fever, cough, and shortness of breath are more commonly reported among people who are hospitalized with COVID-19 than among those with milder disease (non-hospitalized patients). Atypical presentations occur often, and older adults and persons with medical comorbidities may have delayed presentation of fever and respiratory symptoms. Fatigue, headache, and muscle aches (myalgia) are the most frequently reported symptoms in people who are not hospitalized, and sore throat and nasal congestion or runny nose (rhinorrhea) also may be prominent symptoms. Many people with COVID-19 experience gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting or diarrhea, sometimes prior to developing fever and lower respiratory tract signs and symptoms. Loss of smell (anosmia) or taste (ageusia) preceding the onset of respiratory symptoms has been commonly reported in COVID-19 especially among women and young or middle-aged patients who do not require hospitalization.?While many of the symptoms of COVID-19 are common to other respiratory or viral illnesses, anosmia appears to be more specific to COVID-19.Several studies have reported that the signs and symptoms of COVID-19 in children are similar to adults vary by age of the child, and are usually milder compared to adults.15-19?For more information on the clinical presentation and course among children, see?Information for Pediatric Healthcare Providers.SOURCE: I have respiratory symptoms. Do I have COVID-19?If you feel sick, stay home, call your healthcare provider. Only a COVID-19 test can determine whether you have COVID-19 or another respiratory disease. This will help prevent the spread of the infection. Monitor your symptoms and contact your healthcare provider if they begin to worsen. To lower your risk of catching any illness, remember to:Wear a facial covering, such as a mask. A transparent face shield is not a substitute for a mask.Avoid close contact with others, maintaining 6 feet distance from people who don’t live in your household.Wash your hands for 20 seconds or more with soapy water. If unavailable, use hand sanitizer.Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.Avoid contact with people who are sick. Stay home while you are sick (except to visit a healthcare professional) and avoid close contact with others.Cover your mouth/nose with a tissue or sleeve when coughing or sneezing.Get adequate sleep and eat well-balanced meals to ensure a healthy immune system.SOURCE: How soon do signs and symptoms develop after exposure? What is the incubation period?The time between exposure and symptoms is 2-14 days. To be safe, exposed people are asked to stay away from others for 14 days.ONLY IF MORE DETAILS ARE NEEDED: The median time between onset and exposure is 4-5 days from. One study reported that 97.5% of persons with COVID-19 who develop symptoms will do so within 11.5 days of SARS-CoV-2 infection.SOURCE: severe is COVID-19?The largest cohort reported of >44,000 persons with COVID-19 from China showed that illness severity can range from mild to critical:36Mild to moderate (mild symptoms up to mild pneumonia): 81%Severe (dyspnea, hypoxia, or >50% lung involvement on imaging): 14%Critical (respiratory failure, shock, or multiorgan system dysfunction): 5%In this study, all deaths occurred among patients with critical illness, and the overall case fatality rate was 2.3%.36?The case fatality rate among patients with critical disease was 49%.36?Among children in China, illness severity was lower with 94% having asymptomatic, mild, or moderate disease; 5% having severe disease; and <1% having critical disease.16?Among U.S. COVID-19 cases with known disposition, the proportion of persons who were hospitalized was 19%.37?The proportion of persons with COVID-19 admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) was 6%.37Source What are the severe complications?Severe complications of COVID-19 include: pneumonia (lung infection), respiratory failure/distress (breathing problems), sepsis (blood infections) and septic shock, heart damage, kidney injury, and complications from prolonged hospitalization, including secondary bacterial infections, blood clots, gastrointestinal bleeding, and critical nerve, brain and muscle injury.SOURCE: Can I be re-infected?In general, re-infection means a person was infected (got sick) once, recovered, and then later became infected again. To date, reports of re-infection have been infrequent. Similar to other human coronaviruses where studies have demonstrated re-infection, the probability of SARS-CoV-2 reinfection is expected to increase with time after recovery from initial infection due to waning immunity and possibly genetic drift. Risk of re-infection depends on the likelihood of re-exposure to infectious cases of COVID-19. As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, we expect to see more cases of re-infection. . Ongoing COVID-19 studies will help us understand:How likely is re-infection?How often re-infection occurs?How soon after the first infection can reinfection take place?How severe are cases of?re-infection?Who might be at?higher risk for?re-infection?What does re-infection mean for a person’s immunity?Is?a person?able to?spread COVID-19 to other people when?re-infected?At this time, whether you have had COVID-19 or not, the best way to prevent infection is to take steps to protect yourself: Wear a mask in public placesStay at least 6 feet away from other peopleWash your handsAvoid crowds and confined spacesSOURCE: and I heard/saw/read that COVID-19 only kills 0.02% of people. Is this true?No, For provisional death counts and help in interpreting COVID-19 death data, see: . What is the new COVID-19 variant now confirmed in the United States?Rapid spread of a new COVID-19 variant was first recognized in the United Kingdom in mid-December, and cases have been confirmed in the United States. Viruses constantly change through mutation, and new variants of a virus are expected to occur over time. Multiple variants of the virus that causes COVID-19 have been documented in the United States and globally during this pandemic. Most variants do not change how the virus behaves, and many disappear. There is no evidence that these variants cause more severe illness or increased risk of death.According to the CDC, scientists are working to learn more about how easily this variant and other variants might spread, whether they could cause more severe illness, and whether currently authorized vaccines will protect people against the variants. Public health experts are also studying if variants are detected by currently available viral tests, and if they respond to medicines being used to treat COVID-19 patients. The CDC’s recommendations for slowing the spread — wearing masks, staying at least 6 feet apart from others, avoiding crowds, ventilating indoor spaces, and washing hands often — will also prevent the spread of this variant. Why are the estimates on COVID-19 so variable?COVID-19 is a new disease. Scientists predict the impact on modeling what is known about the disease to make predictions about fatality rates and infection rates. See: to better understand the assumptions and values to predict COVID-19 transmission and deaths.COVID-19 Transmission and RiskHow does COVID-19 spread?Close contact: COVID-19 is spread mainly through close contact from person-to-person. Some people without symptoms may be able to spread the virus. We are still learning about how the virus spreads and the severity of illness it causes.Between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet).Through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks.These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs.COVID-19 may be spread by people who are not showing symptoms.The virus that causes COVID-19 is spreading very easily and sustainably between people. In general, the more closely a person interacts with others and the longer that interaction, the higher the risk of COVID-19 spread.Airborne Spread: Some infections can be spread by exposure to virus in small droplets and particles that can linger in the air for minutes to hours. These viruses may be able to infect people who are further than 6 feet away from the person who is infected or after that person has left the space. This kind of spread is referred to as airborne transmission and is an important way that infections like tuberculosis, measles, and chicken pox are spread.There is evidence that under certain conditions, people with COVID-19 seem to have infected others who were more than 6 feet away. These transmissions occurred within enclosed spaces that had inadequate ventilation. Sometimes the infected person was breathing heavily, for example while singing or exercising. ?Under these circumstances, scientists believe that the amount of infectious smaller droplet and particles produced by the people with COVID-19 became concentrated enough to spread the virus to other people. The people who were infected were in the same space during the same time or shortly after the person with COVID-19 had left.Available data indicate that it is much more common for the virus that causes COVID-19 to spread through close contact with a person who has COVID-19 than through airborne transmissionContaminated Surfaces: It may be possible that a person can get COVID-19 by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or possibly their eyes. Respiratory droplets can also land on surfaces and objects. It is possible that a person could get COVID-19 by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or eyes.Spread from touching surfaces is not thought to be a common way that COVID-19 spreadsContaminated surfaces are not thought to be the main way the virus spreads, but we are still learning more about how this virus spreads.Rarely between people and animals: It appears that the virus that causes COVID-19 can spread from people to animals in some situations. CDC is aware of a small number of pets worldwide, including cats and dogs, reported to be infected with the virus that causes COVID-19, mostly after close contact with people with COVID-19. Learn what you should do if you have pets.At this time, the risk of COVID-19 spreading from animals to people is considered to be low. Learn about COVID-19 and pets and other animals.SOURCE: heard the virus can pass from person-to-person, am I at risk? Yes, the virus travels from person to person. The state has begun to strategically and thoughtfully distribute COVID-19 vaccines to Ohioans at the greatest risk. The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus.To lower your risk of catching any respiratory illness, remember to:Wash your hands for 20 seconds or more with soapy water. If unavailable, use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.Wear a facial covering, such as a mask. A transparent face shield is not a substitute for a mask.Cover your mouth and nose with a cloth face cover when around others Avoid close contact with people who are sick. Stay home while you are sick (except to visit a healthcare professional) and avoid close contact with others.Put six feet of distance between yourself and people who don’t live in your household.Cover your mouth/nose with a tissue or sleeve when coughing or sneezing.Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces.Monitor your health daily.Get adequate sleep and eat well-balanced meals to ensure a healthy immune system.Here is tool to calculate COVID-19 risk for an activity. See: (Brown University)SOURCE: Can someone with COVID-19 spread the virus to other people?Yes. Someone who is sick with COVID-19 can spread the virus to others up to 48 hours prior to showing any symptoms. CDC recommends that people who have COVID-19 be isolated either in the hospital or at home. The location depends on how sick they are. They are isolated until they are not at risk of infecting others.The length of the isolation may be different for each person. When to release someone from isolation is made on a case-by-case basis. Healthcare providers, infection prevention and control experts, and public health officials consider disease severity, signs and symptoms, and laboratory test results for each patient to decide when release someone from isolation.SOURCE: Can someone who has been quarantined for COVID-19 spread the illness to others?It depends. Quarantine is used for people who have been exposed to a disease and are at risk of developing it. Most individuals who are quarantined never develop illness. If they do become sick with COVID-19, they can spread the disease up to 48 hours before they develop signs and symptoms. Someone who has been released from COVID-19 quarantine is not a risk for spreading the virus to others because they were not ill.SOURCE: Can I get COVID-19 from mosquitos or ticks?At this time, CDC has no data to suggest that this new coronavirus or other similar coronaviruses are spread by mosquitoes or ticks. The main way that COVID-19 spreads is from person to person. SOURCE: Can I get COVID-19 from having sex with someone who has it?All close contact (within 6 feet or 2 meters) with an infected person can expose you to the virus that causes coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) — whether you're engaged in sexual activity or not.There is currently no evidence that the COVID-19 virus is transmitted through semen or vaginal fluids, but the virus has been detected in the semen of people who have or are recovering from the virus. Further research is needed to determine if the COVID-19 virus could be transmitted sexually.SOURCE: Who is at risk for COVID-19?Everyone is at risk for getting COVID-19 if they are exposed to the virus. Some people are more likely than others to become severely ill, which means that they may require hospitalization, intensive care, or a ventilator to help them breathe, or they may even die.Older adults and those with underlying health conditions are considered more at-risk and should take additional precautions to prevent infection.SOURCE for high-risk individuals: is at higher risk of severe disease? COVID-19 is a new disease. Currently there are limited data and information about the impact of underlying medical conditions and whether they increase the risk for severe illness from COVID-19. Older adultsAs you get older, your risk for severe illness from COVID-19 increases. For example, people in their 50s are at higher risk for severe illness than people in their 40s. Similarly, people in their 60s or 70s are, in general, at higher risk for severe illness than people in their 50s. The greatest risk for severe illness from COVID-19 is among those aged 85 or older.SOURCE: People of any age with the following conditions are at increased risk of severe illness from COVID-19CancerChronic kidney diseaseCOPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease)Heart conditions, such as heart failure, coronary artery disease, or cardiomyopathiesImmunocompromised state (weakened immune system) from solid organ transplantObesity (body mass index [BMI] of 30 kg/m2 or higher but < 40 kg/m2)Severe Obesity (BMI ≥ 40 kg/m2)PregnancySickle cell diseaseSmokingType 2 diabetes mellitusBased on what we know at this time, people with the following conditions might be at an increased risk for severe illness from COVID-19Asthma (moderate-to-severe)Cerebrovascular disease (affects blood vessels and blood supply to the brain)Cystic fibrosisHypertension or high blood pressureImmunocompromised state (weakened immune system) from blood or bone marrow transplant, immune deficiencies, HIV, use of corticosteroids, or use of other immune weakening medicinesNeurologic conditions, such as dementiaLiver diseaseOverweight (BMI > 25 kg/m2, but < 30 kg/m2)Pulmonary fibrosis (having damaged or scarred lung tissues)Thalassemia (a type of blood disorder)Type 1 diabetes mellitusSOURCE: and What should people at higher risk do to prevent COVID-19?It is especially important for people at increased risk of severe illness from COVID-19, and those who live with them, to protect themselves from getting COVID-19. There is no way to ensure you have zero risk of infection, so it is important to understand the risks and know how to be as safe as possible if or when you do resume some activities, run errands, or attend events and gatherings.The best ways to protect yourself and to help reduce the spread of the virus that causes COVID-19 are to:Limit your interactions with other people as much as possible.Take precautions to prevent getting COVID-19 when you do interact with others.If you start feeling sick and think you may have COVID-19, get in touch with your healthcare provider within 24 hours.For a more thorough discussion of action steps that people at higher risk of COVID-19 can take to protect themselves visit: , (Advise people to scroll down to the section on What to consider before being around other people)Will warmer weather stop COVID-19?We don’t know if weather or temperature changes the spread of COVID-19. Some viruses, like the cold and flu, spread more during winter months. However, it is not hard to become sick with these viruses during other months. There is much more to learn about this new disease.SOURCE: Public Health Advisory System (Risk Alert System)What is the new alert system Governor DeWine announced 7/2/2020?The Public Health Advisory System is a new warning system to provide local health departments and community leaders data and info to help combat flare-ups as they occur in different parts of the state.The color-coded system is built on data to assess COVID-19 spread and inform and empower individuals, businesses, & local governments in their response. The system has 4 levels to provide Ohioans with guidance on the severity of the problem in the counties in which they live. The levels are determined by 7 data indicators that identify the risk level for each county and a corresponding color code to represent that risk level.These indicators are:NEW CASES PER CAPITA: When the data show that a county has had an average of 50 cases per 100,000 people over a 2-week period, that triggers a flag for an increasing case rate. Using this data means we are considering population of a county when monitoring case increasesSUSTAINED INCREASE IN NEW CASES: If the number of new cases in a county continually increases, that’s another indicator of virus spread. A county will be flagged for meeting this indicator if the data show at least a five-day period of sustained new case growth.PROPORTION OF CASES NOT CONGREGATE CASES: Data showing more than 50% of new cases originating from non-congregate settings during at least one of the past three weeks will trigger a flag on this indicator.SUSTAINED INCREASE IN ER VISITS: ER data will show us the trend in the number of people who visit an emergency department with COVID-19 symptoms or a COVID-19 diagnosis as a result of the visit. A county is flagged when there is an increase in such ER visits over a five-day period.SUSTAINED INCREASE IN OUTPATIENT VISITS: This data set looks at the number of people visiting outpatient settings, including telehealth appointments, with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 symptoms. A county is flagged when there is an increase over a five-day period.SUSTAINED INCREASE IN NEW COVID-19 HOSPITAL ADMISSIONS: When the numbers show at least a five-day period of sustained growth in the number of county residents with COVID-19 who are admitted to a hospital, the county will be flagged for meeting this indicator.ICU BED OCCUPANCY: This indicator looks at regional data for both COVID-19 and non-COVID-19 use of ICU beds. A county is flagged for this indicator when the regional ICU occupancy goes above 80% for at least three of the last seven days.The system will have four different alert levels for counties in Ohio. They are:ALERT LEVEL 1 (YELLOW): A county has triggered zero or one of the seven indicators, and there is active exposure and spread. Wear a mask when you go out.ALERT LEVEL 2 (ORANGE): A county has triggered two or three of the seven indicators, and there is increased risk of exposure and spread. These counties are seeing cases that are growing in the community in the last two weeks. Wear a mask when you go out.ALERT LEVEL 3 (RED): A county has triggered four or five of the seven indicators, and there is very high exposure and spread. Ohioans should limit activities as much as possible. Wear a mask when you go out.ALERT LEVEL 4 (PURPLE): A county has triggered six to seven of the indicators, and there is severe exposure and spread. Stay home as much as possible. Alerts will be updated on Wednesdays. What do the alert levels mean for us in the communities? We encourage Ohioans to pay attention to the alert level of their county in determining their plans for the day. These alert levels will show Ohioans how careful they need to be in their communities. More information for each level, and recommendations for them, are below. For specific questions: indicators overviews and risk level guidance can be found at coronavirus. at SOURCE: and QuarantineWhat is isolation? Who needs to isolate? How long do people with COVID-19 isolate?Isolation is used to separate people infected with SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, from people who are not infected. For most persons with COVID-19 illness, isolation and precautions can generally be discontinued 10 days after symptom onset and resolution of fever for at least 24 hours, without the use of fever-reducing medications, and with improvement of other symptoms. A limited number of persons with severe illness may produce replication-competent virus beyond 10 days that may warrant extending duration of isolation and precautions for up to 20 days after symptom onset; consider consultation with infection control experts.For persons who never develop symptoms, isolation and other precautions can be discontinued 10 days after the date of their first positive RT-PCR test for SARS-CoV-2 RNA.SOURCE: What is quarantine? Who needs to quarantine? How long do people exposed to COVID-19 quarantine?Quarantine is used to keeps someone who might have been exposed to the virus away from others. People who have been in close contact with someone who has COVID-19 should quarantine — excluding those who have had COVID-19 within the past 3 months. Close contact is defined as being within 6 feet of someone who has COVID-19 for a total of 15 minutes or more; providing care to someone who is sick with COVID-19; having direct contact with someone who had COVID-19; sharing eating or drinking utensils with someone who has COVID-19; or being sneezed, coughed on, or otherwise got respiratory droplets on you from someone with COVID-19. Quarantine is determined by local health jurisdictions. You should check with your local health jurisdiction on specific quarantine requirements. In general, the Ohio Department of Health adopted new guidance issued by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) on December 4, 2020, to the following: 14 day quarantine - Staying home for 14 days after contact is still the safest way to limit possible spread of COVID-19. The Ohio Department of Health continues to recommend this time period for people in congregate living facilities, such as nursing homes; in workplaces with a large number of employees; and in other settings in which COVID-19 could spread extensively. The Ohio Department of Health also recommends 14 days if you are in contact with people at increased risk for severe illness from COVID-19.10 day quarantine that does not require testing, provided there are no symptoms - For others with no symptoms, a 10-day quarantine period may be sufficient, however, the Ohio Department of Health recommends that Ohioans consider getting tested on day eight or later to increase certainty of no infection. Quarantine can then end at the conclusion of the 10-day period. Individuals must continue to monitor for symptoms for the full 14 days and should immediately self-isolate if they develop any symptoms.7 days quarantine requiring testing, provided there are no symptoms - Quarantine can be reduced further to 7 days, if an individual has no symptoms and receives a negative viral test, collected on day five or later. Individuals must continue to monitor for symptoms for the full 14 days and should immediately self-isolate if they develop any symptoms.Everyone quarantining should maintain social distance of at least 6 feet and wear a mask when around others, wash hands frequently, and avoid crowds. You should continue to monitor for any symptoms for the full 14-day period. If you become sick or test positive for COVID-19, stay home and self-isolate in a separate room from others.SOURCE: and What is the difference between isolation and quarantine?Both isolation and quarantine mean to separate individuals from others. Isolation is for ill people. Quarantine is for people who have been exposed to a contagious disease but are not showing symptoms. Your local health department will review your risk and symptoms to determine if either of these apply to you.SOURCE: I live in an apartment complex. One of my neighbors is in quarantine. What precautions do I take in shared common spaces?A person who is quarantined is a person who may have been exposed to a contagious disease but has not developed illness (symptoms) and who separates themselves from others who have not been exposed, in order to prevent the possible spread of that disease. You cannot catch a disease from someone who does not have it. If they were sick, the chances of pathogens traveling through the HVAC would be very rare. You should follow the below precautions to limit the spread of infectious diseases in common areas:Perform hand hygiene frequently. Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol covering all surfaces of your hands and rubbing them together until they feel dry. Soap and water should be used preferentially if hands are visibly dirty.Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.Clean all “high-touch” surfaces, such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets, and bedside tables, every day. Also, clean any surfaces that may have blood, stool, or body fluids on them.Use a household cleaning spray or wipe, according to the label instructions. Labels contain instructions for safe and effective use of the cleaning product including precautions you should take when applying the product, such as wearing gloves and making sure you have good ventilation during use of the product.I’ve already had COVID-19. Do I still have to quarantine if I’m exposed to it again?Individuals who have tested positive for COVID-19 within the past three months and recovered do not have to quarantine or get tested again as long as they do not develop new symptoms. People who develop symptoms again within three months of their first bout of COVID-19 may need to be tested again if there is no other cause identified for their symptoms, according to the CDC.If it has been longer than three months since you tested positive, you should follow current quarantine guidance.Cases of reinfection of COVID-19 have been reported but are rare. In general, reinfection means a person was infected and got sick once, recovered, and then became infected again. Based on what we know from similar viruses, some reinfections are expected.All individuals, regardless of whether they have had COVID-19 or not, should continue to take preventative measures, including wearing face coverings over the mouth and nose when in public places or other peoples’ homes, staying at least 6 feet away from other people, avoiding crowds and confined spaces, and washing your hands frequently.Why do I have to quarantine if I don’t have any symptoms? What counts as “close contact”?People who are not fully vaccinated and have been in close contact with someone who has an active COVID-19 case are asked to stay home and stay away from others because symptoms may not appear immediately.Close contact includes:Standing within 6 feet for at least 15 minutes over a 24-hour period, with or without a face mask.Direct physical contact.Shared utensils.A nearby cough or sneeze.Home care for someone who is sick with COVID-19.People do not have to quarantine if they have been fully vaccinated against the disease and show no symptoms, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). However, if you live in a group setting, like a group home, you should stay away from others for 14 days and get tested, even if don’t have symptoms and/or are vaccinated. What should I do if I had close contact with someone who has COVID-19?If you have had close contact?with a person confirmed, or under evaluation for COVID-19 infection, you should quarantine.Stay home and follow all local health department guidanceWatch for fever (100.4?F), cough, shortness of breath, or other symptoms of COVID-19If possible, stay away from others, especially people who are at higher risk for getting very sick from COVID-19If you develop symptoms contact your healthcare provider or local health departmentSource: Contact TracingWhat is contact tracing?Contact tracing is the subsequent identification, monitoring, and support of a confirmed or probable case’s close contacts who have been exposed to, and possibly infected with, the virus. The infected patient’s identity is not discussed with contacts, even if asked.SOURCE: What is the difference between case investigation and contact tracing?Case investigation: Case investigation is the identification and investigation of patients with confirmed and probable diagnoses of COVID-19. During the case investigation, the health department works with a patient who has COVID-19 to help them recall everyone they had close contact with during the time when they may have been infectious. For COVID-19, a close contact is anyone who was within 6 feet of an infected person for at least 15 minutes. An infected person can spread COVID-19 starting 48 hours (or 2 days) before the person has any symptoms or tests positive for COVID-19.Contact tracing: Contact tracing is the subsequent identification, monitoring, and support of a confirmed or probable case’s close contacts who have been exposed to, and possibly infected with, the virus. The infected patient’s identity is not discussed with contacts, even if asked.SOURCE: personal health information collected through the health department’s case management tool secure?Information collected through the health department’s case management tools for COVID-19 is securely stored with the health department. These tools help health departments quickly collect and analyze information about COVID-19. Case management tools are under the same laws and regulations for all sensitive health information use (e.g. HIPAA). An individual must provide consent for their health department to collect information using a case management tool. Public health departments follow the rules and practices for managing personal health information and restricting access to sensitive information.SOURCE: What happens with my personal information during contact tracing?Discussions with health department staff are confidential. This means that your personal and medical information will be kept private and only shared with those who may need to know, like your health care provider.If you have been diagnosed with COVID-19, your name will not be shared with those you came in contact with. The health department will only notify people you were in close contact with (within 6 feet for more than 15 minutes) that they might have been exposed to COVID-19. Each state and jurisdiction use their own method for collecting and protecting health information. To learn more, contact your state or local health department.SOURCE: What happens if I am diagnosed with COVID-19 during contact tracing?If you are diagnosed with COVID-19, someone from the health department may call you to check on your health, discuss who you have been around, and ask where you spent time while you may have been able to spread COVID-19 to others. You will also be asked to continue to stay at home and?self-isolate, away from others.Your name?will not?be shared.The health department staff?will not?ask you for:MoneySocial Security numberBank account informationSalary information, orCredit card numbersSelf-isolation means staying at home in a specific room away from other people and?pets, and using a separate bathroom, if possible.Self-isolation helps slow the spread of COVID-19 and can help protect the health of your family, friends, neighbors, and others you may come in contact.If you need support or assistance while in self-isolation, your health department or community organizations may be able to help.Watch for or monitor your?symptoms of COVID-19. If your symptoms worsen or become severe, you should seek medical care.SOURCE: Contract Tracing FAQs: Who is considered a close contact to a COVID-19 case?For COVID-19, a?close contact is defined as being within 6 feet of someone who has COVID-19 for a total of 15 minutes (cumulative) or more; providing care to someone who is sick with COVID-19; having direct contact with someone who had COVID-19; sharing eating or drinking utensils with someone who has COVID-19; or being sneezed, coughed on, or otherwise got respiratory droplets on you from someone with COVID-19. An infected person can spread COVID-19 starting 48 hours (or 2 days) before the person has any symptoms or tests positive for COVID-19.Contract Tracing FAQs: Am I considered a close contact if I was always more than 6 feet away?In most cases, CDC would not consider you a close contact.Am I a close contact if I was not around the person with COVID-19 for at least 15 minutes?In most cases, CDC would not consider you a close contact. Please note the 15 minutes is cumulative.Is the 15 minutes cumulative or at one time?The 15 minutes is cumulative during the diagnosed case’s communicable period.Am I considered a close contact if I wear a mask?Yes, you are still considered a close contact even if you were wearing a mask while you were around someone with COVID-19. Contract Tracing FAQs: Am a considered a close contact if I was behind a Plexiglas barrier?Yes, CDC does not consider masks worn by the general public to be PPE and while barriers will reduce the spread of COVID-19 we do not know that they will reduce the spread to zero. Contract Tracing FAQs: I was around someone who has COVID-19, and my COVID-19 test came back negative. Do I still need to quarantine for 14 days after I was last exposed?Quarantine is determined by local health jurisdictions. You should check with your local health jurisdiction on specific quarantine requirements. In general, the Ohio Department of Health adopted new guidance issued by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) on December 4, 2020, to the following: 14 day quarantine - Staying home for 14 days after contact is still the safest way to limit possible spread of COVID-19. The Ohio Department of Health continues to recommend this time period for people in congregate living facilities, such as nursing homes; in workplaces with a large number of employees; and in other settings in which COVID-19 could spread extensively. The Ohio Department of Health also recommends 14 days if you are in contact with people at increased risk for severe illness from COVID-19. If you have been told to quarantine for 14-days, you must continue to quarantine even if you test negative. 10 day quarantine that does not require testing, provided there are no symptoms - For others with no symptoms, a 10-day quarantine period may be sufficient, however, the Ohio Department of Health recommends that Ohioans consider getting tested on day eight or later to increase certainty of no infection. Quarantine can then end at the conclusion of the 10-day period. Individuals must continue to monitor for symptoms for the full 14 days and should immediately self-isolate if they develop any symptoms.7 days quarantine requiring testing, provided there are no symptoms - Quarantine can be reduced further to 7 days, if an individual has no symptoms and receives a negative viral test, collected on day five or later. Individuals must continue to monitor for symptoms for the full 14 days and should immediately self-isolate if they develop any symptoms.Everyone quarantining should maintain social distance of at least 6 feet and wear a mask when around others, wash hands frequently, and avoid crowds. You should continue to monitor for any symptoms for the full 14-day period. If you become sick or test positive for COVID-19, stay home and self-isolate in a separate room from others.SOURCE: Contract Tracing FAQs: I was recently around someone who has COVID-19, but I feel fine. Why should I stay at home?People with COVID-19 can still spread the virus even if they don’t have any symptoms. If you were around someone who had COVID-19, it is critical that you stay home and away from others. Staying home and away from others at all times helps your health department in the fight against COVID-19 and helps protect you, your family, and your community. You should check with your local health jurisdiction for quarantine guidance specific to your community.SOURCE: Contract Tracing FAQs: if I have been around someone who was identified as a close contact?If you have been around someone who was identified as a close contact to a person with COVID-19, closely monitor yourself for any?symptoms of COVID-19. You do not need to isolate or self-quarantine unless you develop symptoms or if the person identified as a close contact develops COVID-19.SOURCE: Contract Tracing FAQs: additional questions about contact tracing, refer to local health department.If a local health department has questions about contact tracing refer to the Bureau of Infectious Diseases (614) 995-5599.OK, I am quarantined. I will stay home. Can I have friends come over?No, quarantine means to separate yourself from others. With COVID-19, you could spread the virus to your friends before you develop symptoms.If I am a close contact will I be tested?If you have been in close contact with someone who has COVID-19, you should be tested, even if you do not have symptoms of COVID-19. While you are waiting for your COVID-19 test result, stay home away from others (self-quarantine) and monitor your health?for symptoms of COVID-19?to protect your friends, family, and others from possibly getting COVID-19.If your?test is positive, you should continue to stay home and?self-isolate?away from others and monitor your health. If you have symptoms of COVID-19 and they worsen or become severe, you should seek emergency medical care. Severe symptoms include trouble breathing, persistent pain or pressure in the chest, confusion, inability to wake or stay awake, or bluish lips or face. Someone from the health department may call you toCheck on your health,Discuss who you have been around, andAsk where you have spent time while you may have been able to spread COVID-19 to others.If your?test is negative?and you?don’t have symptoms,?you should continue to stay home and?self-quarantine?away from others, as advised by your local health jurisdiction. If your?test is negative?and you?have symptoms,?you should continue to isolate away from others and follow all recommendations from the health department. Additional medical consultation and a second test may be needed if your symptoms do not improve.SOURCE: Contract Tracing FAQs: and If I have already had COVID-19 and have now been identified as a close contact, do I need to quarantine? People who have tested positive for COVID-19 on a viral test within the past 3 months and recovered do not have to quarantine or get tested again as long as they do not develop new symptoms. People who develop symptoms again within 3 months of their first may need to be tested again if there is no other cause identified for their symptoms.How can we volunteer to help with contract tracing?The state posted opportunities for exposure notification the jobs website, but the posting has expired since the state is in the hiring process. The local health departments are also hiring contact tracers. For information on paid or volunteer exposure notification, please reach out to your local health department.SOURCE: Previous ODH FAQ ScriptPrevention: GeneralWhat do I do if I get sick?If you have a fever, cough, chills, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, fatigue, muscle or body aches, headache, new loss of taste or smell, sore throat, congestion or runny nose, nausea, vomiting or diarrhea, you might have COVID-19. You can use the Coronavirus Self-Checker to help you make decisions on when to seek testing and appropriate medical care. The checker is available at: people have mild illness and can recover at home. If you think you may have been exposed to COVID-19, contact your healthcare provider.Keep track of your symptoms.If you have any emergency warning sign including:Bluish lips or faceSevere and constant pain or pressure in the chestExtreme difficulty breathing (such as gasping for air or being unable to talk without catching your breath)Severe and constant dizziness or lightheadednessNew serious disorientation (acting confused)Unconscious or very difficult to wake upSlurred speech or difficulty speaking (new or worsening)SeizuresSigns of low blood pressure (too weak to stand, light-headed, feeling cold, pale, clammy skin), get emergency medical care immediately.Clinician InformationHealthcare providers should collaborate with local public health to obtain a detailed contact and exposure history. Current treatment guidelines are available from the National Institute of Health at: SOURCE: can I protect myself?The best way to prevent infection is to avoid being exposed to the virus that causes COVID-19. With the most recent public health orders, all Ohioans are required to wear facial coverings, such as masks, in any indoor location that is not a residence, outdoors when unable to maintain a distance of six feet from others; or when waiting for, riding, or operating public transportation, a taxi, car service or ride-sharing service. A transparent face shield is not a substitution for a mask but may be permitted under certain circumstances. In addition, all students K-12 are required to wear masks in school. Outside of school or the home, some exceptions to wearing facial coverings do apply.To the extent individuals are using shared or outdoor spaces when outside their home, they must wear facial coverings and try to maintain social distancing of at least six feet from any other people outside of their household. All persons may leave their homes or place of residence to participate in activities, businesses or operations as permitted by the Stay Safe Ohio order or orders after. To lower your risk of catching any respiratory illness, remember to:Wash your hands for 20 seconds or more with soapy water. If unavailable, use hand sanitizer.Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.Avoid contact with people who are sick. Stay home while you are sick (except to visit a healthcare professional) and avoid close contact with others.Cover your mouth/nose with a tissue or sleeve when coughing or sneezing.Get adequate sleep and eat well-balanced meals to ensure a healthy immune system.Follow the risk level guidance based on your location. See: 1Conduct a daily health/symptom self-evaluation and stay at home if symptomatic.**Maintain social distancing of at least 6 feet from non-household members.Wear face coverings in public, especially when social distancing is difficult to maintain.Increase caution when interacting with others not practicing social distancing or wearing face covers.Avoid traveling to high-risk areas.Follow good hygiene standards, including:Wash hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.Use hand sanitizer frequently.Avoid touching your face.Cover coughs or sneezes (e.g., into a tissue, or elbow).Level 2Same guidelines as in Level 1.Avoid contact with anyone who is considered high-risk.High-risk individuals* should take extra care to follow precautions.Decrease in-person interactions outside household.Seek medical care as needed, but limit or avoid unnecessary visits to hospitals, nursing homes, and residential care facilities to see others as much as possible.Level 3Same guidelines as in Levels 1-2.Decrease in-person interactions with others.Consider necessary travel only.Limit attending gatherings of any number.Level 4Same guidelines as in Level 1-3. Stay at home/ necessary travel only.SOURCE: other special groups, see: Prevention: Personal Protective EquipmentMy facility has a shortage of PPE. What should we do? For healthcare providers, they should:Look within their systems to see if other providers/facilities in their networks may have any.If not, they should contact their local EMA. Contact information can be found here: Review CDC guidance for managing the supply of PPE. See: the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) guidance for extended use and limited reuse of PPE in healthcare settings. See: health department has a shortage of PPE. What should we do?Reach out to other local health departments to see if they may have any to spare.If not, they should contact their local EMA. Contact information can be found here: Consider conservation measures:Review CDC guidance for managing the supply of PPE. See: Review the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) guidance for extended use and limited reuse of PPE in healthcare settings. See: Review CDC guidance for managing the supply of PPE. See: PPE conservation strategies: HYPERLINK "" If no gowns or masks are available, see CDC’s “considerations for selecting protective clothing used in healthcare for protection against microorganisms in blood and body fluids” : How is the State of Ohio addressing the personal protective equipment (PPE) shortage and demand?The State of Ohio has received access to the national stockpile of personal protective equipment. We are also asking those who have extra PPE to consider donating it, to make sure those who need it have enough. If you have some you’d like to donate, first call your local EMA to notify them of the availability of PPE, should it be needed. Your local EMA will provide guidance.if you would like to donate PPE or any other essential service or resource, email together@governor.. On April 1, 2020, Governor DeWine also announced the Ohio Manufacturing Alliance to Fight COVID-19, which is tasked with better coordinating efforts to provide healthcare workers and first responders with the PPE they need. If you want to help create needed PPE, go to SOURCE: coronavirus. How can we get face shields from the Ohio Manufacturing Alliance to Fight COVID-19?Governor DeWine announced April 9 that the alliance is going to make between 750,000 to 1 million face shields over the next five weeks. Once assembled, they will be delivered to the Ohio Department of Health stockpile, inventoried, and then distributed across the state.President Trump and Vice President Pence requested construction sites donate N-95 masks to hospitals. The Governor requested professionals donate PPE if they can afford to. How do we do that?If you’re a professional who has surplus PPE that you’re able to donate, please first reach out to your county Emergency Management Agency (EMA), who will then coordinate next steps to ensure PPE is available to those that need it. Please do not deliver PPE directly to the agency. Just hold on to the PPE for now, until the EMA can redirect it to an area of need, should the need arise.I am a manufacturer and want to help create PPE. Where can I go to help?On April 1, 2020, Governor DeWine also announced the Ohio Manufacturing Alliance to Fight COVID-19, which is tasked with better coordinating efforts to provide healthcare workers and first responders with the PPE they need. If you want to help create needed PPE, go to Face Coverings, Masks and RespiratorsWhere can we find the mask order? It’s on coronavirus. under public health orders, mask order for the general public: What is the mask order Governor DeWine announced? What counties have to wear masks? On July 22, 2020, Governor DeWine announced that the state of Ohio would be under a new Public Health order starting at 6:00 pm July 23, 2020, mandating them to wear a face mask. On November 11, 2020, Governor DeWine expanded the mask mandate to require businesses to post a Face Covering Requirement sign at all public entrances to their store, and to require those stores to ensure their customers and employees are wearing masks. Retailers should also post signs outlining the medical exceptions to the mask order for customers and employees. These signs are available at coronavirus.. He also announced the formation of a Retail Compliance Unit, comprised of agents led by the Bureau of Workers Compensation.? They will be inspecting to ensure compliance.?Order for reference: If caller asks a question about the order you can’t answer:The order in full is here: We can read them the order but should not interpret it. You can guide them to the order to read it themselves as well. What are the exceptions for employees/employers wearing facemasks or coverings on the job?Wearing face coverings while working is required, but there are exceptions to that rule when:Wearing a face covering is not advisable for health purposes. Wearing a face covering is a violation of a company’s safety policies. An employee is sitting alone in an enclosed workspace. There is a practical reason a face covering cannot be worn by an employee. An employee in a particular position is prohibited by a law or regulation from wearing one while on the job.Wearing a face covering on the job is against documented industry best practices.If you/your business believe you qualify for one of these exceptions, you must provide written justification on request. Who should not wear face coverings?Face coverings are strongly recommended for people who can safely wear them. Face coverings should NEVER be worn by or placed on people who are younger than 2, have difficulty breathing, or are unconscious, incapacitated, or otherwise unable to remove them without assistance. Some people cannot wear face coverings, such as, people who have severe asthma or breathing issues, hearing aids, autism, post-traumatic stress disorder, or claustrophobia. SOURCE: Who is required to wear a cloth mask or face covering?On July 23, 2020, the ODH Director of Health ordered all individuals in the State of Ohio to wear a cloth mask or face covering at all times when:In any indoor location that is not a residence;Outdoors and unable to consistently maintain six feet or more from individuals who are not members of their family/household; orWaiting for, riding, driving, or operating public transportation, a taxi, car service, or a ride sharing vehicle. This does not apply to private or rental vehicles where members of a family/household are sharing a vehicle.SOURCE: there exceptions?The requirement to wear a facial covering does not apply when:The individual is under ten years of age; On August 4, 2020, Governor DeWine announced an additional mask order applying to children in grades K-12. The Ohio Children’s Hospital Association & Ohio Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics jointly recommended masks for all kids returning to school. The order is applicable statewide.] Schools that offer Kindergarten through Grade 12 instruction should follow the additional guidelines from the Ohio Department of Education and the Ohio Department of Health.A medical condition including those with respiratory conditions that restrict breathing, mental health conditions or disability contraindicates the wearing of a facial covering;The individual is communicating or seeking to communicate with someone who is hearing-impaired or has another disability. Where the ability to see the mouth is essential for communication;The individual is alone in an enclosed space, such as an office, or in lieu of an enclosed space, the individual is separated by at least six feet in all directions from all other individuals, and in either case the space is not intended for use or access by the public;The individual is actively engaged in exercise in a gym or indoor facility so long as six or more feet of separation between individuals exists;The individual is actively participating in athletic practice, scrimmage, or competition that is permitted under a separate Department of Health order;The individual is actively engaged in a public safety capacity, including but not limited to law enforcement, firefighters or emergency medical personnel;The individual is seated and actively consuming food or beverage in a restaurant or bar;Facial coverings are prohibited by law or regulation;Facial coverings are in violation of documented industry standards;Facial coverings are in violation of business’s documented safety policies;Individual is actively participating in broadcast communications;Individual is an officiant of a religious service; orIn and industrial or manufacturing facility, employees are separated by at least six feet in all directions, or by a barrier in a manufacturing line or work area.Schools offering kindergarten through grade twelve instruction (or some portion of it) that complies with the guidelines set forth by the Ohio Department of Education and the Ohio Department of Health.Childcare centers, family childcare, in-home aids, day camps, and after school programs licensed by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS) that comply with the current and future guidelines set forth by ODJFS and the Ohio Department of Health.SOURCE: should I wear a face covering?Many people with COVID-19 have no symptoms, so the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises that Americans wear cloth face coverings as a possible way to protect one another from infection. It is important to note that face coverings are not a substitute for other prevention efforts, such as hand-washing and social distancing. Continue to stay 6 feet from others whenever possible, to clean hands frequently, and to follow the other prevention methods.What is the proper way to wear a face covering?Use a face covering that fits snugly but comfortably and allows for breathing without restriction. Wash or sanitize your hands before putting the face covering on. Wear it horizontally, covering your nose, mouth, and chin. Secure it with ear loops, tie it behind your head with ties or fasten with straps around your head. Don’t touch your eyes, nose or mouth when taking it off. Wash or sanitize your hands immediately after removing the face covering. Routinely launder and dry the covering. Do not wear it when wet.SOURCE: Where can I get a face covering?You can make your own face covering with multiple layers of a fabric that does not damage or lose shape when machine laundered and dried. You also can support small businesses selling fabric face coverings at a reasonable price — but watch out for scammers offering high-priced or so-called superior face coverings. Instructions for making your own sewn or no-sew face covering can be found at: . Do NOT use a mask meant for a healthcare worker. Currently, surgical masks and N95 respirators are critical supplies that should be reserved for healthcare workers and other first responders. Do NOT wear a mask with an exhalation valve. They are not effective for source control.I received a mask in the mail. Is the state sending masks via mail?To further inform older Ohioans about ways to protect themselves during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Ohio Departments of Aging and Health are mailing throughout December an informational brochure and 5 disposable face masks to more than 2 million residents aged 65 and older.How will I know that the masks are from the State of Ohio? The masks are being mailed in either a bubble envelope or a stay-flat cardboard envelope that is approximately 6”x9” in size. It says “in this together Ohio” in the top left corner. What is in the envelope? Enclosed in the envelope is an informational brochure and a polybag containing 5 face masks. The face masks are non-medical, 3-ply disposable masks with ear loops.Are the masks safe to use? Wearing a mask, such as these 3-ply disposable masks, helps protect you and reduces the risk of spreading COVID-19 to others. . The masks were packaged using safe handling procedures. You should feel safe to use these masks. Are the masks washable? No. Where can I get more masks? Non-medical disposable face masks are sold online and through large retail stores. I received an envelope addressed to someone else. The envelopes were addressed to Ohioans aged 65 and older who live at residential addresses. The envelope also is addressed to “Or Current Resident” in case the intended recipient no longer lives at the address. If you are the current resident, we hope that you will read the informational brochure and make use of the masks for yourself, your family, or a neighbor.What else should I do to protect myself if I go to work?Whenever possible stay at least 6 feet away from other people. Wash your hands with soap and water for at least twenty seconds, as often as possible, or use hand sanitizer. Cover your cough or sneeze into the sleeve or elbow, not hands, and frequently disinfect work areas and high-touch items in your workplace with disinfecting cleanser. Don’t touch your face (eyes, nose mouth), shake hands, share work materials or equipment, especially equipment used near the face e.g. telephone headsets. Don’t congregate with others in breakrooms or other areas. If you have symptoms or otherwise feel sick, stay home. If possible, avoid public or shared transportation.Men, Beards/Facial Hair and Masks or N-95 RespiratorsI heard men need to shave their beards to prevent COVID-19. Is this true?No. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) poster applies only to personal protective equipment worn in healthcare settings. The CDC does not recommend the routine use of respirators in the community.(Add only if the caller asks for more information) The CDC guidelines and the graphic were originally posted as part of the “No-Shave November 2017” as advice to those wanting to grow beards during that month. It describes the beards that could cause problems with tight-fitting respirators e.g. those used in healthcare and not looser-fitting surgical masks.SOURCE: Reprocessing PPEI work in a healthcare facility and we want to send our N-95 masks to be cleaned by Battelle. How do we do that?If you work for a healthcare agency and want to submit masks for decontamination, you need to contact Battelle directly or fill out the form on the Battelle website here: I work as a first responder in EMS/law enforcement and we want to send our N-95 masks to be cleaned by Battelle. How do we do that?On April 15, 2020, Governor DeWine announced that Ohio Department of Public Safety and Battelle have now partnered to sanitize N-95 masks for all of Ohio’s first responders. Battelle is providing this service for free. The Ohio State Patrol has developed a statewide collection and distribution system to make this process as simple as possible for local first responders.Beginning Friday, April 17, local law enforcement agencies and EMS agencies can bring their packaged N-95 masks to any OSHP post in the state. The patrol will then bring those masks to Battelle in Columbus. Battelle will sanitize them. Then OSHP will bring the masks back to each post, and agencies can then come back and pick them up. The patrol will be sending out guidelines to local law enforcement and EMS agencies soon on how the masks must be packaged.How does a facility determine that they are in crisis or contingency capacity regarding PPE?CDC has an algorithm that facilities can use to determine if they are in crisis or contingency capacity regarding PPE. See: Can I reuse N95 Respirators?Perhaps, please review information at: to determine whether or not you are in a crisis or contingency situation.Can we sterilize our N95s at home? No, you need to use an FDA-approved method for sterilization, do not trust any “at-home” guides you find online or on social media. Only get information from trusted sources. Guidance can be found here about correct types and companies: Can we sterilize our surgical masks?There is currently no FDA approved method for sterilizing surgical masks.Can we reuse gowns?Please review information at: to determine whether or not you are in a crisis or contingency situation.For specific questions from healthcare staff related to infection control practices in healthcare facilities and/or PPE re-use please refer to BID HAI Program at 614-995-5599Prevention: Healthcare Infection Control TrainingInfection Prevention Training for Long Term Care FacilitiesWe have a new infection preventionist. Where can she/he get training?The Nursing Home Infection Preventionist Training course is designed for individuals responsible for infection prevention and control (IPC) programs in nursing homes.The course was produced by CDC in collaboration with the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).This specialized nursing home training covers:Core activities of effective IPC programs,Recommended IPC practices to reduce: Pathogen transmissionHealthcare-associated infectionsAntibiotic resistanceSOURCE: Project FirstlineWhat is Project Firstline and how do I sign up?CDC’s Project Firstline is a collaborative of diverse healthcare and public health partners that will provide infection control training to the more than 6 million healthcare personnel in the United States, as well as members of the public health workforce.Project Firstline aims to provide every person working in a U.S. healthcare facility the foundation for infection control to protect the nation from infectious disease threats, such as coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).To view training modules, go to: SOURCE: Hand Sanitizer, Non-Alcohol Based Hand Sanitizer and DisinfectantsMy facility is unable to use alcohol-based hand sanitizers because our residents/patients would drink it. Is a non-alcohol foam-based hand sanitizer, appropriate?CDC does not have a recommended alternative?to hand rub products with greater than 60% ethanol or 70% isopropanol as active ingredients. Benzalkonium chloride, along with both ethanol and isopropanol, is deemed eligible by?FDA?for use in the formulation of healthcare personnel hand rubs.?However, available evidence indicates benzalkonium chloride has less reliable activity against certain bacteria and viruses than either of the alcohols. Decisions on the use of ethanol and/or isopropanol vs the use of benzalkonium chloride should consider patient/resident safety.Hand sanitizers using active ingredients other than alcohol (ethanol), isopropyl alcohol, or benzalkonium chloride are not legally marketed, and FDA recommends that consumers avoid their use.SOURCE: . How can I find hand sanitizers listed with the FDA, or verify that a company has listed its product with the FDA?FDA publishes product listing information provided by the companies that make the drug on the National Drug Code (NDC) Directory. This listing does not mean the drug is approved by FDA. Anyone can look up a drug product and download the information by searching on its NDC, company name or drug name. For a list of all hand sanitizers, choose the proprietary name search, and search for the term “hand sanitizer.”SOURCE: is the risk of using a hand sanitizer that contains methanol (wood alcohol)?The FDA is warning consumers and health care professionals about hand sanitizers that contain methanol, also known as wood alcohol, because it is a dangerous and toxic substance. Methanol can cause serious side effects when absorbed through the skin and can cause blindness or death when swallowed. Do not use any products on this list of hand sanitizers with potential methanol contamination, and continue checking this list often as it is being updated daily. Check your hand sanitizer products to see if they are on this list and dispose of them immediately if they are. Most hand sanitizers found to contain methanol do not list it as an ingredient on the label (since it is not an acceptable ingredient in the product), so it’s important to check the FDA’s list to see if the company or product is included. Visit FDA Updates on Hand Sanitizers with Methanol?for more information.SOURCE: should people do that have been exposed to?hand sanitizer with potential methanol contamination?Methanol exposure can result in nausea, vomiting, headache, blurred vision, permanent blindness, seizures, coma, permanent damage to the nervous system or death. Although people using these products on their hands are at risk for methanol poisoning, young children who accidentally swallow these products and adolescents and adults who drink these products as an alcohol (ethanol) substitute are most at risk. People who have been exposed to hand sanitizer containing methanol and are experiencing symptoms should seek immediate medical treatment for potential reversal of toxic effects of methanol poisoning.SOURCE: should I do with hand sanitizer that contains methanol (wood alcohol)?If you have one of the products on this list of hand sanitizers with potential methanol contamination, you should immediately stop using it and dispose of the product, ideally in a hazardous waste container. Because these hand sanitizers contain significant amounts of methanol, do not pour these products down the drain or flush them. Contact your local waste management and recycling center for more information on hazardous waste disposal.SOURCE: is the difference between cleaning and disinfection?Cleaning with soap and water or a detergent removes germs, dirt, and impurities from surfaces. It lowers the risk of spreading infection. Disinfecting with a household disinfectant on List N: Disinfectants for use against SARs-CoV-2 kills germs on the surface. By disinfecting or killing germs on a surface after cleaning the surface, it can further lower the risk of spreading infection. For more information review cleaning and disinfection recommendations for facilities and homes.SOURCE: Is it safe to vacuum in a school, business, venue if a person with COVID-19 has been in the facility?The risk of spreading SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, during vacuuming is unknown. At this time, there are no reported cases of COVID-19 associated with vacuuming. Consider removing area rugs completely, if possible, to reduce the need for cleaning, disinfection, and vacuuming.If vacuuming is necessary or required,First, follow the CDC recommendations for?Cleaning and Disinfection for Community Facilities.Close off areas visited by the ill persons. Open outside doors and windows and use ventilating fans to increase air circulation in the area. Wait 24 hours or as long as practical before beginning cleaning and disinfection.After cleaning and disinfection, the following recommendations may help reduce the risk to workers and other individuals when vacuuming:Use a vacuum equipped with a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter, if available.Do not vacuum a room or space that has people in it. Wait until the room or space is empty to vacuum, such as at night, for common spaces, or during the day for private rooms.Temporarily turn off in-room, window-mounted, or on-wall recirculation HVAC to avoid contamination of the HVAC units.Consider temporarily turning off room fans and the central HVAC system that services the room or space, so that particles that escape from vacuuming will not circulate throughout the facility.SOURCE: What are the approved disinfectants for objects and surfaces?You can find a list of selected disinfectants and antimicrobial products registered with the Environmental Protection Agency here: should get tested? (Should I be tested?)People who have symptoms of COVID-19People who have had close contact (within 6 feet of an infected person for at least 15 minutes, cumulative) with someone with confirmed COVID-19 People who have been asked or referred to get testing by their healthcare provider, local or state ?health departmentNot everyone needs to be tested. If you do get tested, you should self-quarantine/isolate at home pending test results and follow the advice of your health care provider or a public health professional.SOURCES: Should I be tested for a current infection?If you have symptoms of COVID-19 or have been exposed to someone who is positive for COVID-19talk with your healthcare provider or local health department and consider getting tested. CDC has guidance for who should be tested, but decisions about testing are made by state and local health departments and healthcare providers.If you are in Ohio there are pop up testing sites available. You can find test sites at: . I don’t have symptoms and I’m not sick, but I want to be tested for COVID-19. Where can I go to be tested?On June 11, 2020, Governor DeWine announced that anyone who wants a COVID-19 test may now get a test. There is a map on coronavirus. where Ohioans can find testing sites, including Ohio’s pop-up testing sites, CVS, Kroger, Rite Aid and Walmart. Please call and talk to your healthcare provider and/or the testing center before going. You can find a list of testing locations here: or by visiting coronavirus. and then click on “Testing and Community Health Centers.” Please call and talk to your healthcare provider and/or the testing center before going.Private laboratories and hospital systems in Ohio are now offering testing. These tests are to be performed only using respiratory specimens collected from individuals who meet CDC clinical and/or epidemiological criteria for COVID-19 testing. In general, Patient Service Centers and other phlebotomy sites cannot collect specimens for this test. Your healthcare provider will direct you to the appropriate testing location if testing is deemed necessary. SOURCES: home/Coronavirus/ rmation-labcorp-about-coronavirus-disease-2019-covid-19How do you test a person for COVID-19? (General Information – no actual case)(General Public Answer) A healthcare provider will rub a swab inside the patient’s nose or throat and send the swab for testing. Or, a healthcare provider will ask the person to cough and spit into a clean cup.(Physician or Laboratory Answer) Clinical specimens should be collected from patients for routine testing for other respiratory pathogens and SARS-CoV-2. Guidance on collecting and transporting clinical specimens is available on CDC’s website: For more information on specimen collection see?CDC Information for Laboratories.Source: \I am a healthcare provider; how do I order a test? (General Information – no actual case)Physicians can order a test for any patient who wants one, whether they are symptomatic or not. A list of testing sites and pop-up testing sites is available at coronavirus. by clicking on “Testing and Community Health Centers.”What is the number for the ODH testing approval line? (Only give this number to physicians or healthcare facilities)Ohio local health departments can call 614-995-5599 option 1.Who can administer a COVID-19 test (Nasal/Swab and Nasopharyngeal Swab)Per the Ohio Board of Nursing, “Either a RN or an LPN, who is acting?at the direction of an RN, may perform a nasal-pharyngeal swab on a patient/resident for purposes of COVID-19 testing.” Sections 4723.01(B) and (F), ORC, respectively are the scopes of RN and LPN practice; the standards of nursing practice are in Chapter 4723-4, OAC. ?A RN or LPN, who is acting at the direction of a RN, may delegate nursing tasks to unlicensed individuals, including STNAs,?who have been properly educated and competent to perform the task. (See Chapter 4723-13, OAC, Delegation of Nursing Tasks.) Nursing tasks that are delegable are those that do not require judgment based on nursing knowledge and expertise; the results of the nursing task are reasonably predictable; the nursing tasks can be safely performed according to exact, unchanging directions with no need to alter the standard procedures for performing the task; the task does not require repeated performance of a nursing assessment, and the consequences of performing the nursing task improperly are minimal and not life threatening.?All the above criteria would be consistent with the task of collecting nasal-pharyngeal swabs for purposes of COVID-19 testing. Understanding the task may be delegated to a “STNA,” and the individuals being swabbed may be “nursing home residents,” the nurse will need to consider, consistent with Rule 4723-13-05(F)(2), OAC, the individual patient/resident circumstances, diagnoses and medications. For example, a patient/resident who is receiving anticoagulation therapy, may warrant extra care, more frequent nurse assessment, or may warrant a nurse to themselves perform the nasal swab.Please regularly check the Board homepage at nursing. for updates and guidance being posted during this ongoing health event. Many general practice resources are available on the Board website under Practice Resources and law and rule is available under Law and Rule. You may also subscribe to eNews?at nursing. to receive timely announcements from the Board.SOURCE: Email OBN Practice Email 8/27/20 5:38 PM mcmWhere can we find information about labs that can test samples for COVID-19?You can search the Lab Capacity Database within the ODH COVID-19 dashboard here under other resources. : How many tests will we be able to do with the new testing capacity plan?We will start the expansion on April 29, 2020. At that point we will be able to test over 7,200 a day and more than 43,000 a week. On May 13, 2020, our third week of the expansion, we will be able to test over 18,000 a day and more than 109,000 a week.By our final expansion on May 27, 2020, we will be able to test over 20,000 a day and more than 133,000 a week.What are the prioritized categories for the increased COVID-19 testing?The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has established priority groups for testing. Ohio has modified these groups to meet the specific needs of our state considering changes in testing availability and evolving knowledge of COVID-19 and its impact on Ohioans. The state continues to emphasize testing of patients who are most severely ill, patients who are moderately ill with a high risk of complications – such as those who are elderly and those with serious medical issues – and individuals who are critical to providing care and service to those who are ill. Expanded test availability allows individuals in lower risk tiers to be tested and help to further contain and respond to COVID-19 in Ohio. COVID-19 hospital preparedness zones/regions and community-based coalitions will work together to ensure equitable implementation of effective testing strategies that align with Ohio’s cohesive statewide plan. Testing is only one component of response to COVID-19. The role of testing is to quickly identify individuals infected with COVID-19, promptly isolate them and trace and quarantine any contacts to minimize spread of the virus to others. Testing does not change treatment in any way, nor does it replace comprehensive infection control and prevention activities. As of June 11, testing may be made available to individuals described in Priorities 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5. Providers should work with their regional hospital leads on issues related to testing and use hospital labs and private labs preferentially. The regional leads in collaboration with ODH will be assessing laboratory capacity and assessing supplies on hand to ensure each region is maximizing their testing capacity. All specimens referred to ODHL require approval of the ODH Bureau of Infectious Diseases for processing and will focus on symptomatic patients in Priorities 1 and 2. Priority 1 is to ensure optimal and safe care for all hospitalized patients, lessen the risk of hospital-incurred infections, and ensure staff safety. Individuals in Priority 1 testing include: ? Hospitalized patients with symptoms. ? Healthcare workers with symptoms. This includes behavioral health providers, home health workers, nursing facility and assisted living employees, emergency medical technicians (EMTs), housekeepers and others who work in healthcare and congregate living settings.1 Priority 2 is to ensure that people at highest risk of complications from COVID-19 and those who provide essential public services are rapidly identified and appropriately prioritized in accordance with the CDC’s May 19 guidance for testing in nursing homes.2 Individuals in Priority 2 testing include: ?Residents of long-term care facilities and other congregate living settings1 who are symptomatic. ?Residents and staff of long-term care facilities and congregate living settings1 who are asymptomatic with potential exposure to COVID-19 when a case is detected in a facility. The purpose of testing individuals who are exposed and asymptomatic is to facilitate more specific isolation and quarantine within the congregate living setting to reduce the risk of virus transmission to other residents.3 In these cases, the extent of testing will be determined by the local health department in consultation with the facility medical director or other clinical leadership. ?Patients 65 years of age and older with symptoms. ? Patients with underlying conditions with symptoms. o Consideration should be given for testing racial and ethnic minorities with underlying illness as they are disproportionately affected by adverse COVID-19 outcomes. ? First responders, public health workers, and critical infrastructure workers with symptoms. ? Other individuals or groups designated by public health authorities to evaluate and manage community outbreaks, including those within workplaces and other large gatherings. Priority 3 is to test individuals with and without symptoms in implementing healthcare services across all healthcare settings. The purpose of Priority 3 testing is to minimize risk of post-procedure complications and transmission of COVID-19. Individuals in Priority 3 testing include: ?Individuals receiving essential surgeries and procedures, including those who were reassessed after a delay. ?Individuals receiving all other medically necessary procedures. ?Individuals receiving non-essential/elective surgeries and procedures, effective June 2. Priority 4: Individuals in the community to decrease community spread, including individuals with symptoms who do not meet any of the above categories. Priority 5: Asymptomatic individuals not mentioned above. Footnotes: 1 Congregate living settings are those where more than six people reside with a propensity for rapid person-to-person spread, including but not limited to: assisted living facilities, nursing facilities, Ohio Veterans Homes, residential mental health and substance use treatment facilities, psychiatric hospitals and group home settings, developmental centers, intermediate care facilities and group homes for individuals with intellectual disabilities, facilities operated by the Ohio Department of Youth Services, facilities operated by the Department of Rehabilitation and Corrections, homeless and domestic violence shelters, and jails. 2The CDC’s May 19 "Testing Guidance for Nursing Homes" states: when one case is detected in a nursing home, there are often other residents and healthcare personnel who are infected with SARS-CoV-2 and can continue to spread the infection, even if they are asymptomatic. Testing all residents and healthcare personnel as soon as there is a new confirmed case in the facility will identify infected individuals quickly to allow rapid implementation of infection prevention and control interventions (e.g., isolation, cohorting, use of personal protective equipment). If testing capacity is limited, CDC suggests directing testing to residents and healthcare personnel on the same unit or floor of a new confirmed case. If testing all residents on the same unit or floor is also not possible, CDC suggests directing testing to symptomatic residents and healthcare personnel and residents who have known exposure to a case (e.g., roommates of cases or those cared for by a known positive healthcare worker). 3 Following testing for this group: ?Exposed but asymptomatic residents who test negative still should be quarantined for 14 days and monitored for symptoms, as they could test positive later during the 14-day incubation period. ?Exposed but asymptomatic staff who test negative should be assessed to determine need for quarantine and symptom monitoring based on CDC’s "Interim U.S. Guidance for Risk Assessment and Work Restrictions for Healthcare Personnel with Potential Exposure to COVID-19". They may be permitted to work, adhering to CDC’s "Strategies to Mitigate Healthcare Personnel Staffing Shortages". ?Exposed but asymptomatic staff who test positive should remain off work for ten (10) days following the date of the test, assuming they remain asymptomatic. Under certain circumstances they may be permitted to work, adhering to CDC’s "Strategies to Mitigate Healthcare Personnel Staffing Shortages". SOURCE: June 11, 2020 HANWhere can I find the pop-up testing locations?There is a map on coronavirus. that shows COVID-19 testing locations. SOURCE: or What if I don’t have a primary care provider?There is a map on coronavirus. that shows COVID-19 testing locations. Click on “Testing and Community Health Centers” at the top of the page. The testing site map also includes a list of Community Health Centers also known as Federally Qualified Health Centers. These centers are places where people who may not have a primary care provider can call to get more information about where to get tested.Also, pharmacists are now able to order and administer COVID-19 tests. Please call ahead to alert them of your symptoms, and make sure they are currently testing. SOURCE: May 28, 2020 Governor’s Order Can out of state residents be tested at the pop-up testing sites?The Rapid Tests can be done on out of state residents at no cost. However, at the Cincinnati location they are performing second tests on those with negative rapid results if they have symptoms, to rule out false positives. Those must be sent to the state lab. Out of state residents are not eligible for those secondary tests.How much does testing cost at the pop-up testing sites? Anyone can be tested at the pop-up sites at no cost to them. State testing sites provide testing with no out-of-pocket costs. However, we do bill Medicaid or insurance if applicable, but either the state or federal government will cover the costs for uninsured persons. This is the case at many other testing sites as well, but we cannot guarantee that all privately run testing sites test without charging the patient.When will we get results back from pop-up testing?Test results are reported to the provider who ordered the test, and positive results are reported to the local health department. The provider’s organization follows up with patients. Patients testing positive will also be contacted by the local health department for contact tracing and potentially other wrap-around services.REFER caller to the local sponsor of the testing site (usually community health centers, but in some cases, we have partnered with LHDs). This information can be found on coronavirus.Do we need a doctor’s order to be tested at pop-up sites? A provider order is required for testing, but that doesn’t mean someone has to be sick to be tested. At the pop-up sites operated by the state, the tests are open to anyone. Sites conducted by other parties can set their own standards. There are privately-run sites that require a person to be symptomatic or to otherwise be at-risk.Are there multiple types of tests (mouth swab/nasal/saliva)? Yes, there are multiple types of tests that are in the market, and some of our local partners use different types of tests.Are there sites that require the individual conduct their own test? Self-administered tests are used at some locations, but they are administered under the supervision of a trained professional to ensure that they are done properly to give the test the best chance of producing reliable results.When are the pop-up locations announced?Generally, the Ohio National Guard schedules with our local partners. Especially for the pop-up sites related to increased COVID-19 cases, these sites sometimes come together quickly. We try to update the map at coronavirus. as often as possible, and we also announce testing locations on our Ohio Department of Health Facebook and Twitter pages. How can we submit our information to become a testing site? Call center representatives can enter details for the new testing location here: Once you fill out this form, the site is verified by our team and then uploaded to the map.When should I test for COVID-19? (CLINICIANS)Clinicians should use their judgment to determine if a patient has signs and symptoms consistent with COVID-19 and whether the patient should be tested. Decisions should be based on the local epidemiology of COVID-19, as well as the clinical course of illness. Testing should be prioritized if patient lives in/ works in/ attends a congregate setting such as a healthcare facility or?a school setting. Clinicians are strongly encouraged to test for other causes of respiratory illness, including infections such as influenza. If COVID-19 is suspected, notify your local health department.Updates can be found under the “healthcare professionals” section at do I test? (CLINICIANS)The ODH lab and commercial laboratories are able to perform tests. The type of specimen collected depends on the type of test being performed. Consult the laboratory to which you are sending the specimen.Can someone test negative and later test positive on a viral test for COVID-19?Yes, it is possible. You may test negative if the sample was collected early in your infection and test positive later during this illness. You could also be exposed to COVID-19 after the test and get infected then. Even if you test negative, you still should take steps to?protect yourself and others. See Testing for Current Infection for more information.What is the difference between an antibody, antigen and PCR test?There are three types of tests available for COVID-19: molecular, antigen, and antibody (serology) testing. Molecular and antigen tests detect whether a person is currently infected, and serology detects whether a person had an infection in the past. This document is designed to explain the differences between molecular, antigen, and serology testing, and when one test might be used over another.MolecularAntigenAntigen Why is the test used? Molecular tests look for pieces of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, in the nose, throat, or other areas in the respiratory tract to determine if the person has an active infection. Molecular tests may be called polymerase chain reaction (PCR), RT-PCR, nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT), or LAMP test.Antigen tests look for pieces of proteins that make up the SARS-CoV-2 virus to determine if the person has an active infection.Serology looks for antibodies1 against SARS-CoV-2 in the blood to determine if there was a past infection. How is the test performed? In most cases, a nasal or throat swab or saliva sample is taken by a healthcare provider and tested. Sometimes the test can be run while you wait, and sometimes the swab needs to be sent to a lab for testing.In most cases, a nasal or throat swab is taken by a healthcare provider and tested. Sometimes the test can be run while you wait, and sometimes the swab needs to be sent to a lab for testing.In most cases, a blood sample is taken and sent to a lab for testing.1 Antibodies are formed by the body to fight off infections. Immunoglobulin M (IgM) is the first antibody that is formed against a germ, so it appears on tests first, usually within 1-2 weeks. The body then forms immunoglobulin G (IgG), which appears on tests about 2 weeks after the illness starts. IgM usually disappears from the blood within a few months, but IgG can last for years. Some antibody tests test for IgM and IgG, and some only test for IgG.SOURCE: How can I get tested for a current infection (viral test) and what does my test mean?Decisions about testing are made by state and local health departments or healthcare providers. If you have symptoms of COVID-19 and are not tested, it is important to stay home. What to do if you are sick.COVID-19 testing differs by location. If you have symptoms of COVID-19 and want to get tested, call your healthcare provider first. You can also visit your state or local health department’s website to look for the latest local information on testing. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has authorized viral tests that let you collect either a nasal swab or a saliva sample?at home. However, you will still need to send your sample to a laboratory for analysis.If you test positive for COVID-19, know what protective steps to take if you are sick or caring for someone.If you test negative for COVID-19, you probably were not infected at the time your sample was collected. However, that does not mean you will not get sick. The test result only means that you did not have COVID-19 at the time of testing. You might test negative if the sample was collected early in your infection and test positive later during your illness. You could also be exposed to COVID-19 after the test and get infected then. This means you could still spread the virus. If you develop symptoms later, you might need another test to determine if you are infected with the virus that causes COVID-19. If you tested negative but have known or suspected exposure to someone with COVID-19, you should continue to stay home and self-quarantine away from others, as advised by your local health jurisdiction. For more information about viral tests, please visit Test for Current Infection.How can I get tested for a past infection (antibody test) and what does my test mean?Antibody tests for COVID-19 are available through healthcare providers and laboratories. Check with your healthcare provider to see if they offer antibody tests and whether you should get one.A positive test result shows you might have antibodies from an infection with the virus that causes COVID-19. However, there is a chance a positive result means that you have antibodies from an infection with a virus from the same family of viruses (called coronaviruses), such as the one that causes the common cold.Having antibodies to the virus that causes COVID-19 might provide protection from getting infected with the virus again. If it does, we do not know how much protection the antibodies might provide or how long this protection might last.You should continue to protect yourself and others?since you could get infected with the virus again.If you test negative, you might not have ever had COVID-19. Talk with your healthcare provider about your test result and the type of test you took to understand what your result means.Regardless of whether you test positive or negative, the results do not confirm whether you are able to spread the virus that causes COVID-19. Until we know more, continue to take steps to protect yourself and others.If you want more information about antibody tests, see Test for Past Infection.How is the State of Ohio addressing the shortage of testing materials for COVID-19?Health systems worldwide have struggled because of the critical shortage of test kit components, including the swabs used to collect samples and the sterile solution needed to transport the swabs. On April 15, 2020, Governor DeWine announced that a rapidly assembled team of Ohio State researchers worked overnight and, within 24 hours, created an in-house “recipe” to make the crucial liquid transport medium.In addition, the OSU Wexner Medical Center and Ohio State’s colleges of Medicine, Engineering, and Dentistry, along with the Center for Design and Manufacturing Excellence, Infectious Diseases Institute, and Institute for Materials Research, collaborated with a national consortium that rapidly deployed a design and testing program for 3D printed testing swabs. Ohio State is part of the academic-industry-government consortium led by Harvard, the U.S. Army, and the University of South Florida that designed the swabs.Ohio State teams are working with 3D Manufacturing companies, including FormLabs, Inc. in Toledo, and academic institutes across the State of Ohio to manufacture these swabs and swab kits in significant amounts for the citizens of Ohio.The first order of 15,000 3D printed swabs for COVID-19 test kits will be delivered to Ohio State, with a target of 200,000 swabs and swab kits to be shared in partnership with ODH and hospital systems in Ohio, allowing more ppl to be tested by the end of April. You will still need a doctor’s order to be tested.On April 21, 2020, Governor DeWine announced the formation of a Testing Strike Team led by former Governor Richard Celeste and former Governor Bob Taft. They will work with Ohio leaders from business, academia, and public health to be part of the effort to help us source critical testing items such as reagents.On April 24, 2020, Governor DeWine announced the Roe Dental Lab has started producing swabs for testing. This will increase our testing greatly by May 27th. We will use this new increase in availability to test more populations and examine priority areas including:Nursing home populations. Hot spots in the state.Congregate living settings such as homeless shelters, treatment centers, and developmental disability homes. Food/grocery workers and employees in essential manufacturing facilities.We are also starting to work with Partners in Health who will help us perform robust contract tracing to see who may need to be tested or isolated. Treatment Information How is COVID-19 treated?The National Institutes of Health have published?interim guidelines for the medical management of COVID-19?which include information on therapeutic options for COVID-19 currently under investigation. No U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved drugs have demonstrated safety and efficacy in randomized controlled trials when used to treat patients with COVID-19, although FDA has granted an?Emergency Use Authorization for the use of remdesivir?to treat severe cases. Use of investigational therapies for treatment of COVID-19 should ideally be done in the context of enrollment in randomized controlled trials, so that beneficial drugs can be identified. For the latest information, see?Information for Clinicians on Therapeutic Options for COVID-19 Patients. For information on registered trials in the United States, see?.Source I heard there was a study being done to look for antibodies for COVID-19. How can I volunteer?The Ohio Department of Health does not conduct medical surveys. If you would like to inquire about possible medical studies to volunteer for, you can reach out to your local healthcare provider or hospitals in your region or the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) at the US National Institutes of Health to respond to the global pandemic at: . What is plasma?Plasma is the liquid portion of your blood. It helps with clotting and supports immunity. It contains antibodies that fight off infections, so those who have recovered from this new coronavirus will have antibodies in their blood plasma that help protect them against future infections.SOURCE: What is the plasma treatment?Convalescent plasma therapy uses blood from people who've recovered from an illness to help others recover. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) authorized convalescent plasma therapy for people with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The?FDA?is allowing its use during the pandemic because there's no approved treatment for?COVID-19. Blood donated by people who've recovered from?COVID-19?has antibodies to the virus that causes it. The donated blood is processed to remove blood cells, leaving behind liquid (plasma) and antibodies. These can be given to people with?COVID-19?to boost their ability to fight the virusSOURCE: Currently, there are insufficient data from well-controlled, adequately powered, randomized clinical trials to evaluate the efficacy and safety of convalescent plasma for the treatment of COVID-19. However, >70,000 patients in the United States have received COVID-19 convalescent plasma through the Mayo Clinic’s Expanded Access Program (EAP), which was designed primarily to provide broad access to investigational convalescent plasma and thus did not include an untreated control arm. Both the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Mayo Clinic performed retrospective, indirect evaluations of efficacy by using the Mayo Clinic EAP data, hypothesizing that patients who received plasma units with higher titers of SARS-CoV-2 neutralizing antibodies would have better clinical outcomes than those who received plasma units with lower antibody titers. The results of their analyses suggest that convalescent plasma with high antibody titers may be more beneficial than low-titer plasma in nonintubated patients, particularly when administered within 72 hours of COVID-19 diagnosis. SOURCE: Can people with COVID-19 donate plasma?People who have been fully recovered from COVID-19 for at least two weeks are encouraged to consider donating plasma. For more information or to sign up to donate, visit or contact a local blood donor or plasma collection center. Donors should not use the regular appointment scheduling tool on the Red Cross website or mobile app.COVID-19 VaccineIs there a vaccine for COVID-19?In the United States, three COVID-19 vaccines have been granted emergency use authorization (EUA) from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and recommended for use by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). These vaccines, manufactured by Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna, and Johnson & Johnson (Janssen), have all been proven safe and effective at preventing serious illness, hospitalization, and death from COVID-19 disease. The CDC recommends getting the first vaccine available to you for protection from COVID-19. While vaccine supply is limited, individuals likely will not get to choose which vaccine to receive, and will be given what is available from their vaccine provider at the time they receive their immunization.Why is a COVID-19 vaccine needed if social distancing and wearing masks prevent COVID-19 virus from spreading? Getting us through the pandemic requires using all the tools available. Vaccines boost your immune system, so it will be ready to fight the virus if you are exposed. Vaccination combined with ongoing prevention efforts including wearing face masks that cover the mouth and nose, frequent hand washing and staying at least 6 feet away from others offer the best protection against COVID-19.Why did it take so long to develop a COVID-19 vaccine?When a new flu strain is identified, vaccine manufacturers can use the same processes that are used to make the annual seasonal flu vaccine, saving valuable time. Unlike flu, coronaviruses do not yet have licensed vaccines or processes to build upon. In addition, the coronavirus that causes COVID-19 is a new virus, so entirely new vaccines were developed and tested to ensure they work and are safe. There are many steps in the vaccine testing and approval process. Safety is a top priority of the U.S. vaccine safety development and approval process. The development process for COVID-19 vaccines involved several steps comparable with those used to develop other vaccines such as the flu or measles vaccine, which have successfully protected millions of Ohioans for decades. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), as well as independent medical experts, have ensured that every detail of COVID-19 vaccines is thoroughly and rigorously evaluated. COVID-19 vaccine development and clinical trials were thorough, and thanks to a strategic effort to streamline processes, could be developed more efficiently. Evidence shows that COVID-19 vaccines are safe and work to prevent COVID-19.What is Operation Warp Speed? Operation Warp Speed is a partnership between the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the Department of Defense to help develop, produce, and distribute millions of vaccine doses for COVID-19 as quickly as possible while ensuring that vaccines are safe and effective. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is focused on vaccine planning, working closely with the Ohio Department of Health and other state partners to prepare for vaccination availability.When and where can I (or my loved one) get vaccinated as an older person, someone with chronic health conditions, etc.?Initially, there will be a limited number of vaccines available. Ohio is committed to making vaccines widely available, for all Ohioans who choose to receive it, as quickly as possible, as shipments of the COVID-19 vaccines arrive in Ohio. Until then, in conjunction with the recommendations of medical experts at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) and the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM), Ohio has identified who will be among the first to receive those very early shipments in the first phase of distribution, Phase 1A. This phase includes:Healthcare workers and personnel who are routinely involved in the care of COVID-19 patients.Residents and staff at nursing homes.Residents and staff at assisted living facilities.Patients and staff at state psychiatric hospitals.People with intellectual disabilities or mental illness, including substance abuse, who live in group homes or centers, as well as the staff at those facilities.Residents and staff at Ohio veterans homes.EMS responders.The vaccine distribution plan for future priority populations is still under development and will be shared publicly as soon as it is finalized. As more information becomes available about who can receive the vaccine, and when they can receive it we will communicate this information publicly through the news media and will share information at coronavirus.vaccine. Vaccinations in Phase 1B began the week of January 19. Governor DeWine announced a tiered system for offering vaccinations to the estimated 2.2 million people who are eligible for the vaccine under this phase, beginning with those who are 80 or older. When a new age group begins, vaccinations may not be complete for the previous age group. It will take a number of weeks to distribute all of the vaccine given the limited doses available.?Jan. 19, 2021 – Ohioans 80 years of age and older.Jan. 25, 2021 – Ohioans 75 years of age and older; those with a developmental or intellectual disability?AND?one of the following conditions: cerebral palsy; spina bifida; severe congenital heart disease?requiring hospitalization within the past year; severe type 1 diabetes requiring hospitalization within the past year; inherited metabolic disorders including phenylketonuria; severe neurological disorders including epilepsy, hydrocephaly, and microcephaly; severe genetic disorders including Down syndrome, fragile X syndrome, Prader-Willi syndrome, Turner syndrome, and muscular dystrophy; severe lung disease, including asthma requiring hospitalization within the past year, and cystic fibrosis; sickle cell anemia; and alpha and beta thalassemia; and solid organ transplant patients. If Ohioans feel they fit into this category, and have not been contacted about scheduling, they should follow-up with their local board of developmental disabilities.Local boards of developmental disabilities will reach out to those they know qualify under this eligibility category to coordinate vaccinations. These boards will work with children’s hospitals and some local health departments on scheduling. Only those individuals in this population that work with their local developmental disabilities board will be eligible for vaccination at this time.The vaccinations for Ohioans in this category will only be given at Local Health Departments or participating Children’s Hospitals in conjunction with the local boards of developmental disabilities. Ohioans in this category should not go to their local pharmacies for scheduling or vaccination.Feb. 1, 2021 – Ohioans 70 years of age and older; employees of K-12 schools that wish to remain or return to in-person or hybrid models.Feb. 8, 2021 – Ohioans 65 years of age and older.Feb. 15, 2021?–?Ohioans with severe congenital, developmental, or early-onset, and inherited conditions including cerebral palsy; spina bifida; severe congenital heart disease?requiring hospitalization within the past year; severe type 1 diabetes requiring hospitalization within the past year; inherited metabolic disorders including phenylketonuria; severe neurological disorders including epilepsy, hydrocephaly, and microcephaly; severe genetic disorders including Down syndrome, fragile X syndrome, Prader-Willi syndrome, Turner syndrome, and muscular dystrophy; severe lung disease, including asthma requiring hospitalization within the past year, and cystic fibrosis; sickle cell anemia; and alpha and beta thalassemia; and solid organ transplant patients. Please note: Information is still forthcoming regarding those who have a qualifying congenital, early-onset, or inherited condition (without a developmental or intellectual disability) who will begin being vaccinated on Feb. 15. On March 1, 2021, Governor DeWine announced that the following groups are now eligible as part of 1C of Ohio’s vaccination program starting March 4, 2021:Those living with Type 1 DiabetesPregnant Ohioans Bone marrow transplant recipientsThese are also sometimes called hematopoietic stem cell transplants.These are primarily used for treatment involved with cancer and certain anemias.This category does NOT include the type of stem cell injections people might receive for the treatment of orthopedic problems (i.e. for knees).Those living with ALSThose who work in and meet the below criteria:Childcare servicesAdministrators, lead and assistant teachers, and substitutes enrolled in Ohio’s Professional Registry who are currently working in open childcare and pre-K programs.Licensing specialists employed by the ODJFS or county JFS agencies.Funeral servicesEmbalmers/morticians, funeral home directors, crematory operators, and apprentices.Law enforcement and corrections officersSworn law enforcement officers and peace officers who have first responder or direct supervisory responsibilities. These persons must be active-duty, i.e. working a regular minimum of 20 hours a week. This does not include retired, reserve, or “special” persons. Corrections staff, including probation and parole staff, who provide direct services to an adult or juvenile inmate or a court-supervised individual.Individuals who have a valid active firefighting certificate in the State of Ohio who are active members or employees of a recognized Ohio fire department. This does not include retired, emeritus, or reserve individuals. On March 1, 2021, Governor DeWine announced that the following groups are eligible as of March 4, 2021 as part of phase 2 of Ohio’s vaccination program:Those 60 years old or older.On March 8, 2021 Governor DeWine announced the following groups are now eligible as part of 1D, starting March 11, 2021:Those with Type 2 DiabetesThose with end-stage Renal DiseaseOn March 8, 2021 Governor DeWine also announced the following groups are now eligible as part of 2B, starting March 11, 2021:Ohioans 50 years old or older.Vaccine recipients must be age 16 or older to be eligible for the Pfizer vaccine, and age 18 or older to be eligible for the Moderna vaccine. Ohioans should check the websites of their local health departments and EMAs to learn more about vaccinations in their?community or to sign up to receive updates from the local health department. Groups defined by age will receive the vaccine from local health departments, hospitals, federally-qualified health centers, as well as some retail pharmacies. Providers for other audiences are yet to be announced. A statewide Vaccine Provider Locations search is available at vaccine.coronavirus., allowing Ohioans to search by county, and ZIP code to find a provider in their area to administer the vaccine.Where can we get the COVID-19 vaccine?You can find a list of providers and their information on our new vaccine provider location dashboard here: What are the mass vaccination sites? Can anyone get a vaccine there?FEMA mass vaccination clinics will open at Cleveland State University’s Wolstein Center March 17. This clinic will be open for eight weeks and will have the ability to provide 6,000 vaccines a day. Additionally, state-sponsored mass vaccination clinics located in Lima, Maumee, Dayton, Columbus, Akron, Youngstown, Cincinnati, Chillicothe, Marietta, Wilmington, and Zanesville will be opening in the coming months. Four mobile mass vaccination clinics will also make rounds in the areas of northwestern Ohio (Ada), southeastern Ohio (Athens), north-central Ohio (Mansfield), and east-central Ohio (Steubenville) will be opening in the coming week as supply increases. They will remain open until they are no longer necessary. The regional sites will be able to administer between 300 and 3,000 vaccines a day, depending on the location and supplies.Any Ohioan who is eligible to receive the vaccine under the Ohio Department of Health’s vaccination plan may be vaccinated at any of Ohio's mass vaccination clinics. Ohio will also work closely with the clinics to ensure equitable access for medically underserved communities that could be disproportionately impacted by the virus and other?high-risk residents.Do we need an appointment to get a vaccine at the mass vaccination clinics?Yes. Several appointment-scheduling options will be available, including the use of Ohio’s central scheduling system for some sites. The sites are not yet taking reservations, but specific instructions on how to book an appointment for the regional sites will be announced later this month and instructions for the FEMA site will be available in the next few days. Dates of operation and hours will vary, but sites will offer both weekday and weekend appointments.The central scheduling tool is available at gettheshot.coronavirus. What if we don’t have transportation to the vaccine site?To help those who may have difficulty getting transportation to the Wolstein Center, Cuyahoga County will work with the County Council to provide free bus passes through RTA and subsidize ride share services for people who call 2-1-1 and request transport to the Wolstein site for their vaccination appointment. Other forms of transportation will also be provided including transportation through the Senior Transportation Center and local churches.Those who may need help with transportation should reach out to either their local public transit agency or local health department for details specific to their area. What identification do I need to get vaccinated?Once you are eligible to receive a COVID-19 vaccine in Ohio and are preparing for your vaccine appointment or clinic, make sure you bring an acceptable form of identification with you. The vaccine provider will need identification to verify your identity, name, and age. You do not need to show proof of citizenship or residency status. Your identification will still be accepted if it is expired or from another state or country. If you are eligible to receive the vaccine based on your employment (e.g., a K-12 school employee or healthcare employee), the State of Ohio is not requiring any additional documentation for proof of eligibility; however, providers may develop their own screening and monitoring procedures to evaluate eligibility. Before your appointment, we recommend you check with your vaccine provider to confirm what documentation you will need for your appointment. Acceptable forms of identification are listed below:Driver’s license or any photo ID, regardless of expiration date or place of origin.Active/retired military ID.Physician statement (including shot records).Census records.Adoption records.Naturalization certificate.Birth certificate: Birth record, either original or certified copy.Consulate ID or matricula consular.Passport or a passport card.Certificate of citizenship.Permanent resident card.Application for replacement naturalization/citizenship document.Department of State forms.Military service records (DD-214).Certification of Birth Abroad of a Citizen of the United States (FS-545).Certification of Report of Birth Abroad of a United States Citizen (DS-1350).Consular Report of Birth Abroad of a Citizen of the United States of America (FS-240).Employment Authorization Document (I-766/EAD).Transportation letter (I-797F).I am older and need help using the vaccine locater website on coronavirus.. Who can help me?If possible, older Ohioans should be utilizing the vaccine.coronavirus. site to locate and contact a vaccine provider.If an older Ohioan needs assistance navigating the system they should call their Area Agency on Aging. Call 1-866-243-5678 and enter your ZIP code to be directed to the correct AAA region.The AAAs stand ready to assist with the following:Looking up vaccine providers on vaccine.coronavirus. and giving contact information over the phoneAnswering common questions about vaccine distribution timelines, efficacy and safetyConnecting older Ohioans with transportation needed to get to a vaccine clinicIdentifying additional needs and services even outside the scope of vaccinationsAAAs are not able to:Schedule individuals for a vaccine appointmentAdminister a vaccineDoes Ohio offer a streamlined tool for COVID-19 vaccine availability and appointment scheduling?Yes. The central scheduling system/VMS is a new, state-supported, no-cost, web-based service that allows Ohioans to quickly determine whether they are currently eligible to receive COVID-19 vaccines, or sign up to receive future alerts when they become eligible. When eligible, Ohioans can use this resource to set up an appointment with a nearby provider, prepare for that appointment, and receive text message or email reminders. The central scheduling tool is available at gettheshot.coronavirus.When will patients be able to use the central scheduling system/VMS?The central scheduling tool is available at gettheshot.coronavirus.What is the difference between the central scheduling system/VMS and the Vaccine Provider Location search?The Vaccine Provider Location search is a separate listing that shows all enrolled COVID-19 vaccine providers who have been allocated vaccine, and provides contact information such as address, website, and phone number, so Ohioans can reach out to a provider. However, the Vaccine Provider Location search does not list appointment availability or offer direct scheduling. The central scheduling system/VMS is an all-in-one tool that allows members of the public to determine eligibility, see providers in their area who have appointments available, sign up for alerts, and more.??What is the central scheduling system/vaccine management solution (VMS)? Can I use it if I’m not eligible yet?The central scheduling system/VMS is an all-in-one tool that allows you to determine eligibility, see providers in your area who have appointments available, sign up for alerts, and more. The Vaccine Provider Location search is a listing that shows all providers who have been allocated vaccine, as well as contact information such as address, website, and phone number. However, the Vaccine Provider Location search does not list appointment availability. If you aren’t yet eligible, you can use this tool to sign up for future alerts. Vaccine is scarce, and the vaccination process will take months. You can use the central scheduling system/VMS tool as a resource to regularly check to determine when it is your turn.The central scheduling system/VMS tool allows patients to easily find available vaccine, schedule appointments, access care, and get reminders. You can use the tool to receive updates about the second dose. You can use the tool to provide important screening and adverse reaction information to the provider.Patients who have already started the vaccination process should visit the provider who administered their first dose of vaccine to receive their second dose. This tool is intended for Ohioans just beginning the vaccination process.The central scheduling tool is available at gettheshot.coronavirus.Who is the next group to receive the COVID-19 vaccine in Ohio?Vaccinations in Phase 1B began the week of January 19. Governor DeWine announced a tiered system for offering vaccinations to the estimated 2.2 million people who are eligible for the vaccine under this phase, beginning with those who are 80 or older. When a new age group begins, vaccinations may not be complete for the previous age group. It will take a number of weeks to distribute all of the vaccine given the limited doses available.?Jan. 19, 2021 – Ohioans 80 years of age and older.Jan. 25, 2021 – Ohioans 75 years of age and older; those with a developmental or intellectual disability?AND?one of the following conditions: cerebral palsy; spina bifida; severe congenital heart disease?requiring hospitalization within the past year; severe type 1 diabetes requiring hospitalization within the past year; inherited metabolic disorders including phenylketonuria; severe neurological disorders including epilepsy, hydrocephaly, and microcephaly; severe genetic disorders including Down syndrome, fragile X syndrome, Prader-Willi syndrome, Turner syndrome, and muscular dystrophy; severe lung disease, including asthma requiring hospitalization within the past year, and cystic fibrosis; sickle cell anemia; and alpha and beta thalassemia; and solid organ transplant patients. If Ohioans feel they fit into this category, and have not been contacted about scheduling, they should follow-up with their local board of developmental disabilities.Local boards of developmental disabilities will reach out to those they know qualify under this eligibility category to coordinate vaccinations. These boards will work with children’s hospitals and some local health departments on scheduling. Only those individuals in this population that work with their local developmental disabilities board will be eligible for vaccination at this time.The vaccinations for Ohioans in this category will only be given at Local Health Departments or participating Children’s Hospitals in conjunction with the local boards of developmental disabilities. Ohioans in this category should not go to their local pharmacies for scheduling or vaccination.Feb. 1, 2021 – Ohioans 70 years of age and older; employees of K-12 schools that wish to remain or return to in-person or hybrid models.Feb. 8, 2021 – Ohioans 65 years of age and older.Feb. 15, 2021?–?Ohioans with severe congenital, developmental, or early-onset, and inherited conditions including cerebral palsy; spina bifida; severe congenital heart disease?requiring hospitalization within the past year; severe type 1 diabetes requiring hospitalization within the past year; inherited metabolic disorders including phenylketonuria; severe neurological disorders including epilepsy, hydrocephaly, and microcephaly; severe genetic disorders including Down syndrome, fragile X syndrome, Prader-Willi syndrome, Turner syndrome, and muscular dystrophy; severe lung disease, including asthma requiring hospitalization within the past year, and cystic fibrosis; sickle cell anemia; and alpha and beta thalassemia; and solid organ transplant patients. Please note: Information is still forthcoming regarding those who have a qualifying congenital, early-onset, or inherited condition (without a developmental or intellectual disability) who will begin being vaccinated on Feb. 15. ?On March 1, 2021, Governor DeWine announced that the following groups are now eligible as part of 1C of Ohio’s vaccination program starting March 4, 2021:Those living with Type 1 DiabetesPregnant Ohioans Bone marrow transplant recipientsThese are also sometimes called hematopoietic stem cell transplants.These are primarily used for treatment involved with cancer and certain anemias.This category does NOT include the type of stem cell injections people might receive for the treatment of orthopedic problems (i.e. for knees).Those living with ALSThose who work in and meet the below criteria:Childcare servicesAdministrators, lead and assistant teachers, and substitutes enrolled in Ohio’s Professional Registry who are currently working in open childcare and pre-K programs.Licensing specialists employed by the ODJFS or county JFS agencies.Funeral servicesEmbalmers/morticians, funeral home directors, crematory operators, and apprentices.Law enforcement and corrections officersSworn law enforcement officers and peace officers who have first responder or direct supervisory responsibilities. These persons must be active-duty, i.e. working a regular minimum of 20 hours a week. This does not include retired, reserve, or “special” persons. Corrections staff, including probation and parole staff, who provide direct services to an adult or juvenile inmate or a court-supervised individual.Individuals who have a valid active firefighting certificate in the State of Ohio who are active members or employees of a recognized Ohio fire department. This does not include retired, emeritus, or reserve individuals. On March 1, 2021, Governor DeWine announced that the following groups are eligible as of March 4, 2021 as part of phase 2 of Ohio’s vaccination program:Those 60 years old or older.On March 8, 2021 Governor DeWine announced the following groups are now eligible as part of 1D, starting March 11, 2021:Those with Type 2 DiabetesThose with end-stage Renal DiseaseOn March 8, 2021 Governor DeWine also announced the following groups are now eligible as part of 2B, starting March 11, 2021:Ohioans 50 years old or older.Vaccine recipients must be age 16 or older to be eligible for the Pfizer vaccine, and age 18 or older to be eligible for the Moderna vaccine. Ohioans should check the websites of their local health departments and EMAs to learn more about vaccinations in their?community or to sign up to receive updates from the local health department. Groups defined by age will receive the vaccine from local health departments, hospitals, federally-qualified health centers, as well as some retail pharmacies. Providers for other audiences are yet to be announced. A statewide Vaccine Provider Locations search is available at vaccine.coronavirus., allowing Ohioans to search by county, and ZIP code to find a provider in their area to administer the vaccine.How many COVID-19 vaccines are under development? Multiple COVID-19 vaccines are under development. In the United States, three COVID-19 vaccines have been granted emergency use authorization (EUA) from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and recommended for use by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). These vaccines, manufactured by Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna, and Johnson & Johnson (Janssen), have all been proven safe and effective at preventing serious illness, hospitalization, and death from COVID-19 disease. The CDC recommends getting the first vaccine available to you for protection from COVID-19. While vaccine supply is limited, individuals likely will not get to choose which vaccine to receive, and will be given what is available from their vaccine provider at the time they receive their immunization.How many doses of COVID-19 vaccine will be needed?Both the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine and the Moderna vaccine require two doses. The Johnson & Johnson (Janssen) vaccine is a single-dose product. Individuals who receive a dose of a particular vaccine must receive a second dose of the vaccine from the same manufacturer, as they are not interchangeable. For example, if you receive a first dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine, your second dose must be the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine administered 21 days after the first dose. If you receive a first dose of the Moderna vaccine, your second dose must be the Moderna vaccine, administered 28 days after the first dose. These recommended intervals, with a standard four-day grace period, should be followed as closely as possible to receive full protection. If the intervals are exceeded, the second dose should be scheduled for administration up to six weeks (42 days) after the first dose, regardless of manufacturer. If the second dose is administered beyond these intervals, there is no need to restart the series, according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidance.How long do I have to wait between the two vaccine doses?The two vaccines that have been granted emergency use authorization (EUA) are not interchangeable. For example, if you receive a first dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine, your second dose must be the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine administered 21 days after the first dose. If you receive a first dose of the Moderna vaccine, your second dose must be the Moderna vaccine, administered 28 days after the first dose. These recommended intervals, with a standard four-day grace period, should be followed as closely as possible to receive full protection. If the intervals are exceeded, the second dose should be administered at the earliest opportunity. Doses would not need to be repeated due to a longer interval, meaning you do not have to start over, according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidance. How do I know which brand of vaccine I received for my first dose? Your vaccine provider may give you a vaccine record card when you receive the first dose of vaccine. This should specify the type of vaccine that you received. If you do not receive a record card, please ask your vaccine provider. What if I receive the second dose of my vaccine too early? What if I receive the second dose of my vaccine too late?These recommended intervals should be followed as closely as possible to receive full protection:?The recommended interval for the second dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine is 21 days after the first dose.?The recommended interval for the second dose of the Moderna vaccine is 28 days after the first dose.The CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) has stated that vaccine doses administered up to four days before the minimum interval are considered valid. If the intervals are exceeded, the second dose should be administered at the earliest opportunity. The first dose does not need to be repeated if the second dose is administered beyond the grace period, meaning you do not have to start over. But you will not be fully protected from the virus until you receive both doses.The second dose should be administered as close to the recommended interval as possible. However, if it is not feasible to adhere to the recommended interval, the second dose of Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines may be scheduled for administration up to 6 weeks (42 days) after the first dose, regardless of manufacturer. There are currently limited data on efficacy of mRNA COVID-19 vaccines administered beyond this window. If the second dose is administered beyond these intervals, there is no need to restart the series.How long will it take for the vaccine to take effect after I receive it?For the two-dose vaccines (Pfizer and Moderna), the vaccines provide fullest protection from COVID-19 two weeks after the second dose is administered. For the one-dose vaccine (Johnson & Johnson), the vaccine provides fullest protection from COVID-19 four weeks after receiving the vaccine.How will I know that the COVID-19 vaccine is safe?The U.S. vaccine safety system ensures that all vaccines are as safe as possible. Safety is a top priority while federal partners work to make a coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccine(s) available. Clinical trials study the effectiveness of the vaccine in thousands of study participants. Data from these trials will be provided to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to determine vaccine safety and effectiveness. The FDA uses rigorous standards during the evaluation and if it determines that a vaccine meets its safety and effectiveness requirements, it can make these available by approval or emergency use authorization. After the FDA makes its determination, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) will review available data before making final vaccine recommendations to the CDC. There have been no shortcuts in the vaccine development process. The COVID-19 vaccine development process involved several steps comparable with those used to develop other vaccines, such as the flu or measles vaccine.Does the Johnson and Johnson vaccine work in the same way as the other COVID-19 vaccines? How is it different?All three COVID-19 vaccines have been proven safe and effective at preventing serious illness, hospitalization, and death from COVID-19 disease. There are differences in how the vaccines work to teach the body to build immunity against COVID-19, how they are stored and handled, and in the number of required doses. The Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna vaccines are messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines. These vaccines provide instructions for the body to create the harmless surface or “spike” protein found in the SARS-CoV-2 virus (which causes COVID-19); the body responds by building antibodies to destroy the protein. This protein is what allows the virus to attach to cells. When the body kills the protein, it also kills viruses that are attached to it. The Johnson & Johnson (Janssen) vaccine is a viral vector vaccine using a harmless, inactive adenovirus (cold virus) as the transportation device to do the same job. The end result of all three vaccines is the same. They use the harmless “spike” protein to teach the body how to recognize the virus, and to build protection against the virus. None of the vaccines will give you COVID-19 or the cold virus.The vaccines are stored, transported, and handled differently, which impacts healthcare providers. The Pfizer and Moderna vaccines are stored ultra-cold or frozen, while the Johnson & Johnson (Janssen) vaccine is stored at standard refrigerator temperatures.While Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna require two doses for the vaccine to build immunity to COVID-19, Johnson & Johnson (Janssen) vaccine only requires a single dose.While they work differently, all three of these vaccines protect you against severe illness, including hospitalization and death.Who is paying for the COVID-19 vaccine? The federal government is committed to providing free or low-cost COVID-19 vaccines. Vaccine doses purchased with taxpayer dollars will be given to Ohioans who choose to receive them at no cost.Will there be enough vaccine for everyone in Ohio?During the early phases of administration of COVID-19 vaccines in the United States, supply will be limited. This means that not everyone will be able to be vaccinated right away but, in time, as vaccination production ramps up, every Ohioan who chooses may receive a vaccine when large quantities are available.What can I do to protect myself from getting COVID-19 until I get vaccinated? You should cover your mouth and nose with a mask when around others, avoid close contact with people who are sick, stay 6 feet away from others, avoid crowds, and wash your hands often. Get more information about these and other steps you can take to protect yourself and others from COVID-19 at coronavirus.. Will Ohio make the COVID-19 vaccination mandatory?No.Will my child be forced to get a vaccine?Ohio is not mandating COVID-19 vaccines. Currently, COVID-19 vaccines are not available for children. The Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine is currently recommended for individuals who are 16 years of age or older. The Moderna and Johnson & Johnson (Janssen) vaccines are currently recommended for individuals who are 18 years of age or older. Additional clinical trial data is being gathered involving children. In the meantime, children, like adults, should wear masks, continue social distancing, wash their hands, and avoid congregating in groups in order to protect themselves from COVID-19.I am pregnant, should I get the COVID-19 vaccine?The CDC and groups such as the?American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists?say all three vaccines should be made available to those who are pregnant, but they leave the choice about whether to get vaccinated up to each individual. Pregnant women were not included in the initial clinical trials for all three vaccines, so there's no data specific to pregnant women. There are no known risks to pregnant women or developing fetuses, according to the CDC. Women who are pregnant are at higher risk of a severe case of COVID-19 if they do become infected. Women are encouraged to discuss whether or not they should receive the vaccine with their healthcare providers.I am breastfeeding, should I get the COVID-19 vaccine?According to the Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine (ABM), though there is currently no clinical data on use of COVID-19 mRNA vaccines in lactation, the?United States Food and Drug Administration Emergency Use Agreement (EUA)?left open the possibility of administering the vaccine to both pregnant and lactating individuals.?Many lactating individuals fall into categories prioritized for vaccination, such as front-line health care workers, and if so may choose to be vaccinated. The Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine does not recommend cessation of breastfeeding for individuals who are vaccinated against COVID-19. Individuals who are lactating should discuss the risks and benefits of vaccination with their health care provider, within the context of their risk of contracting COVID-19 and of developing severe disease. Health care providers should use shared decision making in discussing the benefits of the vaccine for preventing COVID-19 and its complications, the risks to mother and child of cessation of breastfeeding, and the biological plausibility of vaccine risks and benefits to the breastfed child.?These conversations are challenging, because the Pfizer/BioNtech vaccine trial excluded lactating individuals. As a result, there are no clinical data regarding the safety of this vaccine in nursing mothers. However, there is little biological plausibility that the vaccine will cause harm, and antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 in milk may protect the breastfeeding child.?Breastfeeding patients who decide to get vaccinated should continue to follow the current guidelines to prevent the spread of COVID-19 after they are vaccinated. That means:Wearing a maskStaying at least six feet away from othersAvoiding crowdsWashing hands with soap and water for 20 seconds or using hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcoholFollowing?CDC travel guidanceFollowing quarantine guidance after exposure to COVID-19Following any applicable workplace guidance?For more information, please visit: decides who will get the vaccine first?Initially, there will be a limited number of vaccines available. Ohio, in conjunction with the recommendations of medical experts at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) and the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM), will identify who will be among the first to receive those very early shipments. As guidance evolves, Ohio continues to work on an orderly system that is fair, ethical, and transparent. Ohio is committed to making the vaccine widely available, for those that want to receive it, as quickly as possible as shipments of vaccine arrive. Are there special considerations for who will receive the COVID-19 first in Ohio?At first, there will be a limited supply of COVID-19 vaccine, with a phased approach to offering the vaccines. However, it is important that the initial vaccines are given to people in a fair, ethical, and transparent way. Those who are at highest risk of contracting and transmitting the virus will be among the first to be able to access vaccination. Who can get the vaccine in Ohio?Initially, there will be a limited number of vaccines available, and Ohio is committed to making it widely and quickly available for those who want to receive it as shipments of vaccine arrive. Ohio’s distribution has been guided by recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) and the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM), and has been customized to meet Ohio’s specific needs. Currently eligible individuals include older Ohioans who have the highest risk for severe illness, hospitalization, and death from COVID-19; individuals with specific medical conditions or disorders; Ohioans who live or work in congregate settings; healthcare workers who regularly treat COVID-19 patients; K-12 school staff; and people in certain occupations, including child care services, funeral services, law enforcement and corrections, and firefighting. Read a complete list of all eligible Ohioans at coronavirus..Ohio identified the following as Group 1A for vaccinations:Healthcare workers and personnel, who are routinely involved in the care of COVID-19 patients.Residents and staff at nursing homes.Residents and staff at assisted living facilities.Patients and staff at state psychiatric hospitals.People with developmental disabilities and those with mental health disorders, including substance use disorders, who live in group homes, residential facilities, or centers, and staff at those locations.Residents and staff at our two homes for Ohio veterans. EMS responders.Vaccinations in Phase 1B began the week of January 19. Governor DeWine announced a tiered system for offering vaccinations to the estimated 2.2 million people who are eligible for the vaccine under this phase, beginning with those who are 80 or older. When a new age group begins, vaccinations may not be complete for the previous age group. It will take a number of weeks to distribute all of the vaccine given the limited doses available.?Jan. 19, 2021 – Ohioans 80 years of age and older.Jan. 25, 2021 – Ohioans 75 years of age and older; those with a developmental or intellectual disability?AND?one of the following conditions: cerebral palsy; spina bifida; severe congenital heart disease?requiring hospitalization within the past year; severe type 1 diabetes requiring hospitalization within the past year; inherited metabolic disorders including phenylketonuria; severe neurological disorders including epilepsy, hydrocephaly, and microcephaly; severe genetic disorders including Down syndrome, fragile X syndrome, Prader-Willi syndrome, Turner syndrome, and muscular dystrophy; severe lung disease, including asthma requiring hospitalization within the past year, and cystic fibrosis; sickle cell anemia; and alpha and beta thalassemia; and solid organ transplant patients. If Ohioans feel they fit into this category, and have not been contacted about scheduling, they should follow-up with their local board of developmental disabilities.Local boards of developmental disabilities will reach out to those they know qualify under this eligibility category to coordinate vaccinations. These boards will work with children’s hospitals and some local health departments on scheduling. Only those individuals in this population that work with their local developmental disabilities board will be eligible for vaccination at this time.The vaccinations for Ohioans in this category will only be given at Local Health Departments or participating Children’s Hospitals in conjunction with the local boards of developmental disabilities. Ohioans in this category should not go to their local pharmacies for scheduling or vaccination.Feb. 1, 2021 – Ohioans 70 years of age and older; employees of K-12 schools that wish to remain or return to in-person or hybrid models.Feb. 8, 2021 – Ohioans 65 years of age and older.Feb. 15, 2021?–?Ohioans with severe congenital, developmental, or early-onset, and inherited conditions including cerebral palsy; spina bifida; severe congenital heart disease?requiring hospitalization within the past year; severe type 1 diabetes requiring hospitalization within the past year; inherited metabolic disorders including phenylketonuria; severe neurological disorders including epilepsy, hydrocephaly, and microcephaly; severe genetic disorders including Down syndrome, fragile X syndrome, Prader-Willi syndrome, Turner syndrome, and muscular dystrophy; severe lung disease, including asthma requiring hospitalization within the past year, and cystic fibrosis; sickle cell anemia; and alpha and beta thalassemia; and solid organ transplant patients. Please note: Information is still forthcoming regarding those who have a qualifying congenital, early-onset, or inherited condition (without a developmental or intellectual disability) who will begin being vaccinated on Feb. 15. ?On March 1, 2021, Governor DeWine announced that the following groups are now eligible as part of 1C of Ohio’s vaccination program starting March 4, 2021:Those living with Type 1 DiabetesPregnant Ohioans Bone marrow transplant recipientsThese are also sometimes called hematopoietic stem cell transplants.These are primarily used for treatment involved with cancer and certain anemias.This category does NOT include the type of stem cell injections people might receive for the treatment of orthopedic problems (i.e. for knees).Those living with ALSThose who work in and meet the below criteria:Childcare servicesAdministrators, lead and assistant teachers, and substitutes enrolled in Ohio’s Professional Registry who are currently working in open childcare and pre-K programs.Licensing specialists employed by the ODJFS or county JFS agencies.Funeral servicesEmbalmers/morticians, funeral home directors, crematory operators, and apprentices.Law enforcement and corrections officersSworn law enforcement officers and peace officers who have first responder or direct supervisory responsibilities. These persons must be active-duty, i.e. working a regular minimum of 20 hours a week. This does not include retired, reserve, or “special” persons. Corrections staff, including probation and parole staff, who provide direct services to an adult or juvenile inmate or a court-supervised individual.Individuals who have a valid active firefighting certificate in the State of Ohio who are active members or employees of a recognized Ohio fire department. This does not include retired, emeritus, or reserve individuals. On March 1, 2021, Governor DeWine announced that the following groups are eligible as of March 4, 2021 as part of phase 2 of Ohio’s vaccination program:Those 60 years old or older.On March 8, 2021 Governor DeWine announced the following groups are now eligible as part of 1D, starting March 11, 2021:Those with Type 2 DiabetesThose with end-stage Renal DiseaseOn March 8, 2021 Governor DeWine also announced the following groups are now eligible as part of 2B, starting March 11, 2021:Ohioans 50 years old or older.Vaccine recipients must be age 16 or older to be eligible for the Pfizer vaccine, and age 18 or older to be eligible for the Moderna vaccine. Ohioans should check the websites of their local health departments and EMAs to learn more about vaccinations in their?community or to sign up to receive updates from the local health department. Groups defined by age will receive the vaccine from local health departments, hospitals, federally-qualified health centers, as well as some retail pharmacies. Providers for other audiences are yet to be announced. A statewide Vaccine Provider Locations search is available at vaccine.coronavirus., allowing Ohioans to search by county, and ZIP code to find a provider in their area to administer the vaccine.How many vaccines are available? Vaccine manufacturers are working hard to manufacture and distribute vaccines safely, quickly, and effectively. Each state will be informed, on a weekly basis, of how many vaccine doses they will receive that week. The FDA has granted emergency use authorization for three COVID-19 vaccines. Vaccine supply is increasing, but is still limited; therefore, Ohio is offering the vaccine first to the populations at the highest risk for severe complications from COVID-19 disease, or heightened risk of exposure. Ohio is committed to making the vaccine widely available, for those who want to receive it, as quickly as possible as supply increases. In time, as vaccine production ramps up and large quantities are available, every Ohioan who chooses to do so will be able to get vaccinated. If I am in an eligible audience, how will I know when I can get the vaccine? Who do I call? A statewide Vaccine Provider Locations search is available at vaccine.coronavirus., allowing Ohioans to search by county and ZIP code to find a provider in their area to contact to receive the vaccine. Ohio’s new Vaccine Management Solution (VMS) is a state-supported, all-in-one tool for determining eligibility, finding a provider and scheduling an appointment, submitting health information, and receiving updates and reminders. The VMS is available at gettheshot.coronavirus.. Learn more about the VMS, and read step-by-step guidance on how to use the VMS at coronavirus..How do we access the virtual town halls about the COVID-19 vaccine?Certain groups of Ohioans, such as minority communities and populations with limited access to healthcare, may be more hesitant to get COVID-19 vaccines, wanting to “wait and see” how it goes for others who are receiving their vaccines. Ohio wants to ensure that minority communities have the information they need to make informed decisions about COVID-19 vaccines.Your questions will be answered at Ohio's COVID-19 Vaccine Town Halls. Hear from medical experts, community leaders, and public health professionals. Watch livestreams on Facebook, YouTube, and at coronavirus.townhall at the following dates and times:Monday, Feb. 22, 6:30 p.m. – African American OhioansTuesday, Feb. 23, 6:30 p.m. – Hispanic/Latino OhioansMonday, March 1, 6:30 p.m. – Asian American and Pacific Islander OhioansTuesday, March 2, 6:30 p.m. – Rural OhioansThe town halls are open to all, but these dates will focus on certain challenges faced by these populations. Minority communities have had negative experiences with the healthcare system due to lack of access, discrimination, and language barriers. Ohio is making an effort to bridge the gap and address health inequities that lead to disparities in health outcomes.Watch on-demand after the event:Facebook - - - later on TV:Watch later on the Ohio Channel. Find the date and time, and your local channel by checking with your PBS station or television provider.Learn more at coronavirus.townhall.If I am vaccinated, do I still have to follow the mask mandate?Yes. You must follow the mask mandate as long as it remains in effect. Any guidance that indicates masks are not needed would only apply to indoor residences. The mask mandate requires anyone age 10 and older to wear a mask in public at all times when at an indoor location that is not a residence; when outdoors and unable to maintain 6-foot social distance from people who do not live with you; and while waiting for, riding, driving, or operating public transportation or a private car used for ride-sharing. Exclusions include people with certain medical conditions or a disability or communicating with someone with a disability; people who are actively exercising/playing sports or actively eating or drinking; officiants at religious services; and anyone actively involved in public safety. Read the full list of exclusions here.Am I protected against COVID-19 immediately after my vaccination? When can I stop wearing a mask or social distancing after being vaccinated? You do not immediately receive the full benefit of a COVID-19 vaccine, because it takes time for a vaccine to build immunity in your body. Vaccine recipients are considered “fully vaccinated” two weeks after they receive their second dose of the Moderna or Pfizer vaccine or two weeks after they receive the single-dose Johnson & Johnson (Janssen) vaccine. When you are fully vaccinated, you can stop wearing a mask only in specific situations: when you are indoors with other people who are fully vaccinated; or when you are indoors with unvaccinated people from one other household (for example, visiting with relatives who all live together), unless any unvaccinated people or anyone they live with have increased risk for severe illness from COVID-19. If you have been around someone with COVID-19, you do not need to stay away from others (quarantine) or get tested unless you have symptoms. (If you live in a group setting, like a group home, and have been around someone who has COVID-19, you should still stay away from others for 14 days and get tested, even if you don’t have symptoms.For additional details on this guidance visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) “When You’ve Been Fully Vaccinated” page.I have received the COVID-19 vaccine. Do I still need to quarantine if exposed to it?Vaccinated individuals who have been exposed to someone with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 are not required to?quarantine, according to the CDC,?if they meet all of the following criteria:The individual is fully vaccinated, meaning it was been at least two weeks following receipt of the second dose in a two-dose vaccine series (Moderna or Pfizer), or at least two weeks following receipt of one dose of a single-dose vaccine (Johnson & Johnson).The individual has remained asymptomatic since the current COVID-19 exposure.Individuals who do not meet these criteria should continue to follow current?quarantine guidance?after exposure to someone with suspected or confirmed COVID-19. Also, if you are fully vaccinated but live in a group setting, like a group home, you should stay away from others for 14 days and get tested, even if you don’t have symptoms.Fully vaccinated individuals who do not quarantine should still watch for?symptoms of COVID-19?for 14 days following an exposure. If they experience symptoms, they should be clinically evaluated for COVID-19, including SARS-CoV-2 testing, if indicated. After vaccination, individuals should continue to follow COVID-19 precautions when in public, when visiting with unvaccinated people from multiple other households, and when around unvaccinated people who are at high risk of getting severely ill from COVID-19. Specific precautions include: wearing a well-fitted mask, staying at least 6 feet from people you don’t live with, avoiding medium-sized and large-sized in-person gatherings, and following CDC and health department travel recommendations.Fully vaccinated people can stop wearing a mask in specific situations: when you are indoors with other people who are fully vaccinated; or when you are indoors with unvaccinated people from one other household (for example, visiting with relatives who all live together), unless any unvaccinated people or anyone they live with have increased risk for severe illness from COVID-19. Fully vaccinated individuals still must adhere to Ohio’s mask mandate.Does immunity after getting COVID-19 last longer than protection from COVID-19 vaccines? The protection someone gains from having an infection (called natural immunity) varies depending on the disease, and it varies from person to person. Because this virus is new, we don’t know how long natural immunity might last. Some early evidence seems to suggest that natural immunity may not last very long. Regarding vaccination, we won’t know how long immunity lasts until we have a vaccine and more data on how well it works. Both natural immunity and vaccine-induced immunity are important aspects of COVID-19 that experts are trying to learn more about, and CDC will keep the public informed as new evidence becomes available.SOURCE: CDC Facts about COVID-19 vaccinesIf I already had COVID-19 and recovered, do I still need to get vaccinated with the COVID-19 vaccine when it is available?At this time, experts do not know how long someone is protected from getting sick again after recovering from COVID-19. Because of the severe health risks associated with COVID-19, and because re-infection with COVID-19 is possible, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends individuals get vaccinated regardless of whether they’ve already had COVID-19. Individuals who were treated for COVID-19 with monoclonal antibodies or convalescent plasma are advised to wait 90 days before getting a COVID-19 vaccine. Experts are still learning more about how long vaccines protect against COVID-19.Source: . What percentage of the population needs to get vaccinated to have herd immunity to COVID-19?Experts do not know what percentage of people would need to get vaccinated to achieve herd immunity to COVID-19. Herd immunity is a term used to describe when enough people have protection—either from previous infection or vaccination and makes it is unlikely a virus or bacteria can spread and cause disease. As a result, everyone within the community is protected even if some people don’t have any protection themselves. The percentage of people who need to have protection in order to achieve herd immunity varies by disease.Source: CDC Frequently Asked Questions about COVID-19 VaccinationWill the vaccine protect against the new COVID-19 variant now confirmed in the United States?The data so far suggest that most of the COVID-19 vaccines do provide protection against the new COVID-19 variants. Researchers continue to study how these variants behave differently than the original strain, as well as the protection the COVID-19 vaccines offer against all variants. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, scientists tested the vaccines against several emerging variants, including those?detected in the United Kingdom,?Brazil, and?South Africa, and the vaccines have proven effective so far against those mutations. But the current vaccines may be less effective for certain strains of the virus, such as the strain first identified in South Africa, than other variants. The degree to which the vaccines could be less effective is not yet fully known.Both Pfizer and Moderna have said they could alter their vaccine formulas slightly, if that is deemed necessary, to create additional protection against new emerging strains and are studying possible booster doses that could target specific variants. The newly authorized Johnson & Johnson (Janssen) vaccine did include testing in areas where variants were rampant, including South Africa, and during a time in which variants were emerging in multiple countries.Viruses frequently change through mutation, and new variants of a virus are expected to occur over time. Multiple variants of the virus that causes COVID-19 have been documented in the United States and globally during this pandemic. Most variants do not change how the virus behaves, and many disappear. There is no evidence that these variants cause more severe illness or increased risk of death.Rapid spread of a new COVID-19 variant was first recognized in the United Kingdom in mid-December, and cases have been confirmed in the United States. According to the CDC,scientists are working to learn more about how easily this variant and other variants might spread, whether they could cause more severe illness, and whether currently authorized vaccines will protect people against them. Experts anticipate little to no impact on vaccine efficacy. Studies are pending to assess whether the immune response to infection with other variants or current vaccines will work effectively with this strain. Public health officials are also studying if variants are detected by currently available viral tests, and if they respond to medicines being used to treat COVID-19 patients.The CDC’s recommendations for slowing the spread — wearing masks, staying at least 6 feet apart from others, avoiding crowds, ventilating indoor spaces, and washing hands often — will also help prevent the spread of this variant.Should I alter the FDA recommended dosing of COVID-19 vaccines in any way (such as taking only a single dose, having half doses administered, extending the length of time between doses, or mixing and matching COVID-19 vaccines)?No. According to the FDA, at?this time, suggesting changes to the authorized dosing or schedules of these vaccines is premature and not rooted solidly in the available evidence. Without appropriate data supporting such changes in vaccine administration, we run a significant risk of placing public health at risk, undermining the historic vaccination efforts to protect the population from COVID-19. Full doses should be administered as directed, the second dose should be from the same manufacturer as the first dose, and should follow the FDA-recommended intervals (21 days between doses for the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine, and 28 days between doses for the Moderna vaccine).?Read more here.I am not in one of the audiences that has been announced. When can I get the COVID-19 vaccine?Initially, there will be a limited number of vaccines available, so vaccination will be approached in phases, with those who have the highest risk for exposure getting the vaccine first. Once the vaccine products are more widely available, all Ohioans who choose to receive the vaccine will be given the vaccine as quickly as possible. Ohio continues to make plans for a way to distribute vaccines in a way that is fair, ethical, and transparent, in conjunction with the recommendations of medical experts at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) and the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM). As more information becomes available on who can receive the vaccine when, we will communicate this information publicly including through the news media and share information at coronavirus.vaccine.When will the other distribution phases begin? As vaccine supply increases, Ohio will be able to continue to vaccinate Ohioans who choose to receive the vaccine. The speed at which Ohio will move through the phases is largely dependent upon the number of vaccines available. It is too early to determine how long each vaccine phase will take as a result.Vaccinations in Phase 1B began the week of January 19. Governor DeWine announced a tiered system for offering vaccinations to the estimated 2.2 million people who are eligible for the vaccine under this phase, beginning with those who are 80 or older. When a new age group begins, vaccinations may not be complete for the previous age group. It will take a number of weeks to distribute all of the vaccine given the limited doses available.?Jan. 19, 2021 – Ohioans 80 years of age and older.Jan. 25, 2021 – Ohioans 75 years of age and older; those with a developmental or intellectual disability?AND?one of the following conditions: cerebral palsy; spina bifida; severe congenital heart disease?requiring hospitalization within the past year; severe type 1 diabetes requiring hospitalization within the past year; inherited metabolic disorders including phenylketonuria; severe neurological disorders including epilepsy, hydrocephaly, and microcephaly; severe genetic disorders including Down syndrome, fragile X syndrome, Prader-Willi syndrome, Turner syndrome, and muscular dystrophy; severe lung disease, including asthma requiring hospitalization within the past year, and cystic fibrosis; sickle cell anemia; and alpha and beta thalassemia; and solid organ transplant patients. If Ohioans feel they fit into this category, and have not been contacted about scheduling, they should follow-up with their local board of developmental disabilities.Local boards of developmental disabilities will reach out to those they know qualify under this eligibility category to coordinate vaccinations. These boards will work with children’s hospitals and some local health departments on scheduling. Only those individuals in this population that work with their local developmental disabilities board will be eligible for vaccination at this time.The vaccinations for Ohioans in this category will only be given at Local Health Departments or participating Children’s Hospitals in conjunction with the local boards of developmental disabilities. Ohioans in this category should not go to their local pharmacies for scheduling or vaccination.Feb. 1, 2021 – Ohioans 70 years of age and older; employees of K-12 schools that wish to remain or return to in-person or hybrid models.Feb. 8, 2021 – Ohioans 65 years of age and older.Feb. 15, 2021?–?Ohioans with severe congenital, developmental, or early-onset, and inherited conditions including cerebral palsy; spina bifida; severe congenital heart disease?requiring hospitalization within the past year; severe type 1 diabetes requiring hospitalization within the past year; inherited metabolic disorders including phenylketonuria; severe neurological disorders including epilepsy, hydrocephaly, and microcephaly; severe genetic disorders including Down syndrome, fragile X syndrome, Prader-Willi syndrome, Turner syndrome, and muscular dystrophy; severe lung disease, including asthma requiring hospitalization within the past year, and cystic fibrosis; sickle cell anemia; and alpha and beta thalassemia; and solid organ transplant patients. Please note: Information is still forthcoming regarding those who have a qualifying congenital, early-onset, or inherited condition (without a developmental or intellectual disability) who will begin being vaccinated on Feb. 15. On March 1, 2021, Governor DeWine announced that the following groups are now eligible as part of 1C of Ohio’s vaccination program starting March 4, 2021:Those living with Type 1 DiabetesPregnant Ohioans Bone marrow transplant recipientsThese are also sometimes called hematopoietic stem cell transplants.These are primarily used for treatment involved with cancer and certain anemias.This category does NOT include the type of stem cell injections people might receive for the treatment of orthopedic problems (i.e. for knees).Those living with ALSThose who work in and meet the below criteria:Childcare servicesAdministrators, lead and assistant teachers, and substitutes enrolled in Ohio’s Professional Registry who are currently working in open childcare and pre-K programs.Licensing specialists employed by the ODJFS or county JFS agencies.Funeral servicesEmbalmers/morticians, funeral home directors, crematory operators, and apprentices.Law enforcement and corrections officersSworn law enforcement officers and peace officers who have first responder or direct supervisory responsibilities. These persons must be active-duty, i.e. working a regular minimum of 20 hours a week. This does not include retired, reserve, or “special” persons. Corrections staff, including probation and parole staff, who provide direct services to an adult or juvenile inmate or a court-supervised individual.Individuals who have a valid active firefighting certificate in the State of Ohio who are active members or employees of a recognized Ohio fire department. This does not include retired, emeritus, or reserve individuals. On March 1, 2021, Governor DeWine announced that the following groups are eligible as of March 4, 2021 as part of phase 2 of Ohio’s vaccination program:Those 60 years old or older.On March 8, 2021 Governor DeWine announced the following groups are now eligible as part of 1D, starting March 11, 2021:Those with Type 2 DiabetesThose with end-stage Renal DiseaseOn March 8, 2021 Governor DeWine also announced the following groups are now eligible as part of 2B, starting March 11, 2021:Ohioans 50 years old or older.Vaccine recipients must be age 16 or older to be eligible for the Pfizer vaccine, and age 18 or older to be eligible for the Moderna vaccine. Ohioans should check the websites of their local health departments and EMAs to learn more about vaccinations in their?community or to sign up to receive updates from the local health department. Groups defined by age will receive the vaccine from local health departments, hospitals, federally-qualified health centers, as well as some retail pharmacies. Providers for other audiences are yet to be announced. A statewide Vaccine Provider Locations search is available at vaccine.coronavirus., allowing Ohioans to search by county, and ZIP code to find a provider in their area to administer the vaccine.Where can someone with a developmental or intellectual disability get a vaccine? Local boards of developmental disabilities will reach out to those they know qualify under this eligibility category to coordinate vaccinations. These boards will work with children’s hospitals and some local health departments on scheduling. Only those individuals in this population that work with their local developmental disabilities board will be eligible for vaccination at this time, beginning January 25. If Ohioans feel they fit into this category, and have not been contacted about scheduling, they should follow-up with their local board of developmental disabilities.The vaccinations for Ohioans in this category will only be given at Local Health Departments or participating Children’s Hospitals in conjunction with the local boards of developmental disabilities. Ohioans in this category should not go to their local pharmacies for scheduling or vaccination.Where can someone with one of the qualifying medical disorders, who becomes eligible to be vaccinated beginning February 15, go to be vaccinated? Information is still forthcoming regarding those who have a qualifying congenital, early-onset, or inherited condition (without a developmental or intellectual disability) who will begin being vaccinated on Feb. 15.Will my children be able to receive the COVID-19 vaccine? The Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine is currently recommended for patients age 16 and up, and the Moderna vaccine is currently recommended for patients age 18 and up. As more information becomes available on children and COVID-19 vaccines from the FDA, CDC, and vaccine manufacturers, it will be made available at coronavirus.vaccine. Can other vaccines help prevent me from getting COVID-19? Other vaccines, such as those for flu, measles, or other diseases, will not protect you from COVID-19. Only the vaccines designed specifically to protect you from COVID-19, once approved for emergency use by the FDA, can prevent COVID-19. While a flu vaccine will not prevent you from getting COVID-19, it can prevent you from getting influenza (flu) at the same time as COVID-19. Because the flu viruses and the virus that causes COVID-19 will both be spreading during this time, getting a flu vaccine will be more crucial than ever. What is the difference between an emergency use authorization (EUA) and an approval from the FDA? An Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) authorizes the use of an unapproved medical product, or unapproved use of an approved medical product, for use during a public health emergency if the benefits of its use outweigh any known or potential risks. Both Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna’s COVID-19 vaccines have been granted EUA following rigorous review. In the past, EUAs have been issued for products, devices, and drugs related to Ebola, H1N1, Zika, and others. The EUAs are valid until the pandemic is over, the FDA revokes the EUAs, or the products are approved for traditional licensure by the FDA. The FDA closely monitors each vaccine for safety after the EUA is issued. Drug manufacturers are encouraged to obtain traditional FDA licensed vaccine approval as soon as possible.Will COVID-19 vaccines change my DNA or genetic makeup?None of the COVID-19 vaccines will alter your DNA. There are differences in how the vaccines work to teach the body to build immunity against COVID-19. The Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna vaccines are messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines. These vaccines provide instructions for the body to create the harmless surface or “spike” protein found in the SARS-CoV-2 virus (which causes COVID-19); the body responds by building antibodies to destroy the protein. This protein is what allows the virus to attach to cells. When the body kills the protein, it also kills viruses that are attached to it. The Johnson & Johnson (Janssen) vaccine is a viral vector vaccine using a harmless, inactive adenovirus (cold virus) as the transportation device to do the same job. They all use the harmless “spike” protein to teach the body how to recognize the virus, and to build protection against the virus. None of them change your DNA. Can I get COVID-19 from a COVID-19 vaccine?None of the COVID-19 vaccines use the virus that causes COVID-19. The Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna vaccines are messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines. These vaccines provide instructions for the body to create the harmless surface or “spike” protein found in the SARS-CoV-2 virus (which causes COVID-19); the body responds by building antibodies to destroy the protein. This protein is what allows the virus to attach to cells. When the body kills the protein, it also kills viruses that are attached to it. The Johnson & Johnson (Janssen) vaccine is a viral vector vaccine using a harmless, inactive adenovirus (cold virus) as the transportation device to do the same job. None of the vaccines will give you COVID-19 or the cold virus.Will getting a COVID-19 vaccine inject me with a microchip? No vaccine injections or nasal sprays – including the shots for COVID-19 – contain microchips, nanochips, RFID trackers, or devices that would track or control your body in any way. Much like the way any shipment or delivery is tracked, shipments of vaccine doses will be monitored as they are shipped and administered across the country. However, the notion that these shots will contain tracking devices implanted into Ohioans is false.Do COVID-19 vaccines cause autism?Time after time, studies conducted across the globe continue to show that there is no connection between autism and vaccines.Source: CDC: Autism and VaccinesAre COVID-19 vaccines safe? Safety has been a top priority throughout the vaccine development and approval process. All of the vaccines were proven to be effective at preventing serious illness, hospitalization, and death from COVID-19 disease. COVID-19 vaccine development processes involved several steps comparable with those used to develop other vaccines, such as the flu or chickenpox vaccine. Clinical trials study the safety and effectiveness of a vaccine in thousands of study participants. No serious safety concerns emerged during the clinical trials for the three authorized vaccines. There were more than 116,000 participants between the three clinical studies. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) uses rigorous standards and insights from independent medical professionals to evaluate trial data to ensure that a vaccine is safe and effective and the benefits outweigh the risks. After an FDA decision, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also reviews available data before making final recommendations for vaccine use. Safety continues to be a top priority, as vaccine administration is under way, through continuous safety monitoring measures. The CDC and other federal partners continue to monitor the new vaccines for side effects and adverse events, using many vaccine safety monitoring systems. This continued monitoring could reveal effects that may not have been observed in clinical trials.Were COVID-19 vaccines rushed? There have been no shortcuts in the vaccine development process. The process has been quicker as a result of strategic efforts to run concurrent trial phases, as well as a commitment to help condense timelines and reduce or eliminate months-long waiting periods during which documents would be prepared or be waiting for review. In addition, during the process of vaccine development, the CEOs of AstraZeneca, BioNTech, GlaxoSmithKline, Johnson & Johnson, Merck, Moderna, Novavax, Pfizer, and Sanofi made a historic pledge, outlining a united commitment to uphold the integrity of the scientific process as they work toward potential regulatory filings and approvals of the first COVID-19 vaccines. Years of research laid the groundwork for development of COVID-19 vaccines. The approved vaccines use different methods to achieve the same end result, which is to teach our bodies how to recognize COVID-19’s spike protein and create antibodies against it. Messenger RNA (mRNA), used by two of the authorized vaccines (Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna), has been studied for years and was being developed for other infectious diseases. Recent technological advancements in RNA biology and chemistry, as well as delivery systems, have allowed these COVID-19 vaccines using mRNA to be developed as safe and effective vaccines. Adenovirus/viral vector vaccines, the method used by Johnson & Johnson, are common. Read more about how the different COVID-19 vaccines work at coronavirus..The process has been quicker as a result of efforts to run concurrent trial phases, as well as a commitment to help condense timelines and reduce or eliminate months-long waiting periods during which documents would be prepared or be waiting for review. There were no shortcuts in the testing of the vaccines. In addition, manufacturing began while testing was being completed, allowing many doses to be ready to distribute immediately upon authorization.Were vaccines developed using fetal cells?Fetal cells were not used in the design, development, or production of Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines.What are the ingredients in the COVID-19 vaccine?All the COVID-19 vaccines give the cells in your body instructions to make a protein that safely teaches your body how to make antibodies (germ-fighting cells) to fight the real COVID-19 virus if exposed. None of the vaccine ingredients remain in your system, nor do they alter any DNA in your body. For a full list of ingredients, please see each vaccine’s Fact Sheet for Recipients and Caregivers:Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccineModerna COVID-19 vaccineJohnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccineWhat are common side effects after getting a COVID-19 vaccine?Mild side effects such as redness or soreness at the injection site are common. Signs of serious allergic reaction can include breathing problems, hoarseness or wheezing, hives, paleness, weakness, a fast heartbeat, or dizziness. If they do occur, it is usually within a few minutes to a few hours. If your symptoms are severe, call 911. Call the provider that gave you the COVID-19 injection if you are experiencing any symptoms not listed in the table below. Let them know your symptoms.Will CDC continue to watch for problems with the new vaccines?Yes. While no safety issues arose during the clinical trials, CDC and other federal partners continue to monitor the new vaccines for serious side effects (known as adverse events), using many vaccine safety monitoring systems. This continued monitoring can reveal side effects that may not have been seen in clinical trials. If there is an unexpected side effect with the new COVID-19 vaccines, experts can quickly study it further to determine if it is a true safety concern. Monitoring vaccine safety is critical to ensure that the benefits of COVID-19 vaccines continue to outweigh the risks for people who are vaccinated. The current vaccine safety system is strong and robust, with the capacity to effectively monitor COVID-19 vaccine safety. Existing data systems can rapidly detect if a vaccine has any possible safety problems, and additional systems and data sources are being developed. Systems being used include:?CDC and FDA: Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS) — The national system that collects reports of post-vaccination adverse effects from healthcare professionals, vaccine manufacturers, and the public. Follow-up with specific studies is conducted for reports of adverse events that are unexpected, appear to happen more often than expected, or have unusual patterns.CDC: V-safe — A smartphone-based, post-vaccination health checker for people who receive COVID-19 vaccines. V-safe will use text messaging and web surveys to check in with vaccine recipients for health problems following vaccination. The system also will provide telephone follow-up to anyone who reports medically significant (important) adverse events.CDC: National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN) — An acute care and long-term care facility monitoring system reporting to VAERS. CDC: Vaccine Safety Datalink (VSD) — A network of nine integrated healthcare organizations across the United States that conducts active surveillance and research; the system is also used to determine whether possible side effects identified using VAERS are related to vaccination. CDC: Clinical Immunization Safety Assessment (CISA) Project — A collaboration between CDC and seven medical research centers to provide expert consultation on individual cases and conduct clinical research studies about vaccine safety.FDA: Other large insurer/payer databases — A system of administrative and claims-based data for surveillance and research. FDA and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS): Medicare data — A claims-based system for active surveillance and research.FDA: Biologics Effectiveness and Safety System (BEST) — A system of electronic health record, administrative, and claims-based data for active surveillance and research. FDA: Sentinel Initiative — An additional system of electronic health record, administrative, and claims-based data for active surveillance and research.How do I report it if I have a problem or bad reaction after getting a COVID-19 vaccine?CDC and FDA encourage the public to report possible side effects (called adverse events) to the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS). This national system collects these data to look for adverse events that are unexpected, appear to happen more often than expected, or have unusual patterns of occurrence. Learn about the difference between a vaccine side effect and an adverse event. Reports to VAERS help CDC monitor the safety of vaccines. Safety is a top priority.You can also contact the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS) at 1-800-822-7967 or file a report online at CDC also offers a smartphone-based tool called v-safe to check-in on people’s health after they receive a COVID-19 vaccine. When you receive your vaccine, you should also receive a v-safe information sheet telling you how to enroll in v-safe. If you choose to enroll, you will receive regular text messages directing you to surveys where you can report any problems or adverse reactions you have after receiving a COVID-19 vaccine.Reference: is Influenza?Influenza (flu) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness. Serious outcomes of flu infection can result in hospitalization or death. Some people, such as older people, young children, and people with certain health conditions, are at high risk of serious flu complications. There are two main types of influenza (flu) virus: Types A and B. The influenza A and B viruses that routinely spread in people (human influenza viruses) are responsible for seasonal flu epidemics each year. SOURCE: How can you tell the difference between COVID-19 and flu/other pneumonia?You cannot tell the difference. If you are worried see your healthcare provider who may order testing to determine the cause of the illness.SOURCE: are the similarities and differences between Flu and COVID-19?Influenza (Flu) and COVID-19 are both contagious respiratory illnesses, but they are caused by different viruses. COVID-19 is caused by infection with a new coronavirus (called SARS-CoV-2) and flu is caused by infection with influenza viruses. Because some of the symptoms of flu and COVID-19 are similar, it may be hard to tell the difference between them based on symptoms alone, and testing may be needed to help confirm a diagnosis. Flu and COVID-19 share many characteristics, but there are some key differences between the two.Signs and SymptomsSimilaritiesInfluenza (Flu) and COVID-19 are both contagious respiratory illnesses.Fever or feeling feverish/chillsCoughShortness of breath or difficulty breathingFatigue (tiredness)Sore throatRunny or stuffy noseMuscle pain or body achesHeadacheSome people may have vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children than adultsDifferencesFluCOVID-19VirusInfluenza VirusSARS-CoV-2Unique SymptomsLoss of taste or smellTime between Infection and SymptomsSimilaritiesBoth can occur 1 or more days can pass between a person becoming infected and when he or she starts to experience illness symptoms.DifferencesFluCOVID-19Typically, a person develops symptoms anywhere from 1 to 4 days after infection.Typically, a person develops symptoms 5 days after being infected, but symptoms can appear as early as 2 days after infection or as late as 14 days after infection, and the time range can vary.How long someone can spread the virusSimilaritiesFor both COVID-19 and flu, it’s possible to spread the virus for at least 1 day before experiencing any symptoms.DifferencesFluCOVID-19Most people with flu are contagious for about 1 day before they show symptoms.Older children and adults with flu appear to be most contagious during the initial 3-4 days of their illness but many remain contagious for about 7 days.Infants and people with weakened immune systems can be contagious for even longer.It’s possible for people to spread the virus for about 2 days before experiencing signs or symptoms and remain contagious for at least 10 days after signs or symptoms first appeared. If someone is asymptomatic or their symptoms go away, it’s possible to remain contagious for at least 10 days after testing positive for COVID-19.How it spreadsSimilaritiesBoth COVID-19 and flu can spread from person-to-person, between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet). Both are spread mainly by droplets made when people with the illness (COVID-19 or flu) cough, sneeze, or talk. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs.It may be possible that a person can get infected by physical human contact (e.g. shaking hands) or by touching a surface or object that has virus on it and then touching his or her own mouth, nose, or possibly their eyes.Both flu virus and the virus that causes COVID-19 may be spread to others by people before they begin showing symptoms, with very mild symptoms or who never developed symptoms (asymptomatic).DifferencesFluCOVID-19COVID-19 is more contagious among certain populations and age groups than flu. Also, COVID-19 has been observed to have more superspreading events than flu. This means the virus that causes COVID-19 can quickly and easily spread to a lot of people and result in continuous spreading among people as time progresses.People at High-Risk for Severe IllnessSimilaritiesBoth COVID-19 and flu illness can result in severe illness and complications. Those at highest risk include:Older adultsPeople with certain underlying medical conditionsPregnant womenDifferencesFluCOVID-19ChildrenThe risk of complications for healthy children is higher for flu compared to COVID-19.Young children are at higher risk of severe illness from flu.However, infants and children with underlying medical conditions are at increased risk for both flu and COVID-19.School-aged children infected with COVID-19 are at higher risk of Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C), a rare but severe complication of COVID-19.SOURCE: and can I protect myself from getting the flu?Getting the flu by getting vaccinated. The flu shot is the safest and most effective way to prevent influenza. Other important things you can do to protect yourself from getting influenza are:Avoiding close contact with those who are sick. Likewise, when you are sick, keep your distance from others to protect them from getting sick as well. This includes staying home from work, school, or running errands when you are sick. Cover your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze as these spreads infectious droplets into the air. It is best to cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when coughing or sneezing or doing so into your elbow instead of your bare hands.Wash your hands frequently, especially after touching contaminated surfaces or after coughing or sneezing. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth. Germs are often spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose, or mouth.Practice other good habits. Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces at home, work or school, especially when someone is ill. Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious food.SOURCE: When should I see a physician?If you get sick with respiratory symptoms and are at high risk of flu complications or you are concerned about your illness, call your healthcare provider for advice. SOURCE: When should I seek emergency medical attention?Look for emergency warning signs* for COVID-19. If someone is showing any of these signs, seek emergency medical care immediately:Trouble breathingPersistent pain or pressure in the chestNew confusionInability to wake or stay awakeBluish lips or face*This list is not all possible symptoms. Please call your medical provider for any other symptoms that are severe or concerning to you.Call 911 or call ahead to your local emergency facility: Notify the operator that you are seeking care for someone who has or may have COVID-19.SOURCE: Influenza, COVID-19, Respiratory Infection PreventionHow can I help protect myself?To lower your risk of catching any respiratory illness, remember to:Know how it spreadsThe best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus.Wash your hands for 20 seconds or more with soap and water for at least 20 seconds especially after you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. It’s especially important to wash: Before eating or preparing foodBefore touching your faceAfter using the restroomAfter leaving a public placeAfter blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezingAfter handling your maskAfter changing a diaperAfter caring for someone sickAfter touching animals or petsIf unavailable, use hand sanitizer that contains at least 60 % alcohol. Cover all surfaces of your hands and rub them together until they feel dry.Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.Cover your mouth and nose with a mask when around othersYou could spread COVID-19 to others even if you do not feel sick.The mask is meant to protect other people in case you are infected.Everyone should wear a mask in public settings and when around people who don’t live in your household, especially when other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain. Masks should not be placed on young children under age 2, anyone who has trouble breathing, or is unconscious, incapacitated or otherwise unable to remove the mask without assistance.Do NOT use a mask meant for a healthcare worker. Currently, surgical masks and N95 respirators are critical supplies that should be reserved for healthcare workers and other first responders.Continue to keep about 6 feet between yourself and others. The mask is not a substitute for social distancing.Avoid close contactInside your home: Avoid close contact with people who are sick. Outside your home: put 6 feet of distance between yourself and people who don’t live in your household.Stay home while you are sick (except to visit a healthcare professional) and avoid close contact with others.Cover your mouth/nose with a tissue or sleeve when coughing or sneezing.Throw away used tissues in trashWash or sanitize hands as described aboveClean and disinfectClean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily.Clean AND disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily. This includes tables, doorknobs, light switches, countertops, handles, desks, phones, keyboards, toilets, faucets, and sinks.If surfaces are dirty, clean them. Use detergent or soap and water prior to disinfection.Then, use a household disinfectant. Most common EPA-registered household disinfectants will work.Protect Your Health This Flu SeasonIt’s likely that flu viruses and the virus that causes COVID-19 will both spread this fall and winter. Healthcare systems could be overwhelmed treating both patients with flu and patients with COVID-19. This means getting a flu vaccine during 2020-2021 is more important than ever. While getting a flu vaccine will not protect against COVID-19 there are many important benefits, such as:Flu vaccines have been shown to reduce the risk of flu illness, hospitalization, and death.Getting a flu vaccine can also save healthcare resources for the care of patients with COVID-19.Get adequate sleep and eat well-balanced meals to ensure a healthy immune system.Source: COVID-19 in Ohio, US and Other CountriesWhat is the situation in Ohio?Check ODH’s coronavirus website for up-to-date case counts; visit . (Updated at 2 p.m. every weekday.)How are local health departments and healthcare facilities preparing for the virus?Refer them to their local health department.Is there a plan for alternative healthcare treatment locations in Ohio if the normal health systems are overwhelmed? Individual hospitals and regional hospital groups have detailed plans in place for building out systems quickly to respond to an increase in patients. What is the situation in the United States?Other countriesCheck CDC’s coronavirus website for up-to-date case counts; visit . Where in the world have there been confirmed cases?For the latest information, visit: or : , Pregnancy and BreastfeedingWhat actions should I take if I am pregnant?Based on what we know at this time, pregnant women might be at increased risk for severe illness from COVID-19 compared to non-pregnant women. Additionally, there may be an increased risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes, such as preterm birth, among pregnant women with COVID-19.They should consult with their doctor. If it is necessary to leave the home, pregnant women should wear facial coverings, wash hands frequently, avoid touching their face, and stay away from crowded areas.There is not currently information from published scientific reports about susceptibility of pregnant women to COVID-19. Pregnant women experience changes to their immune system which might make them more susceptible to viral respiratory infections, like COVID-19.Actions to take if you are pregnantDo not skip your prenatal care appointments.Make sure that you have at least a 30-day supply of your medicines.Limit your interactions with other people as much as possible.Take precautions to prevent getting COVID-19 when you do interact with others.Make sure that you have at least a 30-day supply of your medicines.Talk to your healthcare provider about how to stay healthy and take care of yourself during the COVID-19 pandemic.If you don’t have a healthcare provider, contact your nearest community health or health department.Call your healthcare provider if you have any questions related to your health.Seek care immediately if you have a medical emergency.You may feel increased stress during this pandemic. Fear and anxiety can be overwhelming and cause strong emotions. Learn about stress and coping.Learn more about how to reduce your risk of getting COVID-19.SOURCE: it easier for pregnant women to become ill with the COVID-19? If they become infected, will they be sicker than other people?Based on what is known at this time, pregnant women might be at an increased risk for severe illness from COVID-19 compared to non-pregnant women. Additionally, pregnant women with COVID-19 might have an increased risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes, such as preterm birth. It is important for pregnant women to protect themselves from COVID-19 in the same way as everyone else. Severe illness and adverse birth outcomes were observed among hospitalized pregnant women with COVID-19. These findings highlight the importance of preventing and identifying COVID-19 in pregnant women. Pregnant women should avoid close contact with persons with confirmed or suspected COVID-19, maintain 6 feet of distance from non-household members, and take general COVID-19 preventive measures, including wearing masks and practicing hand hygiene.§§ CDC recommends testing newborns born to mothers with COVID-19, isolation of mothers with COVID-19 and their newborns from other hospitalized mothers and newborns, and infection prevention measures for persons caring for newborns who might be exposed to SARS-CoV-2.** Continued surveillance for COVID-19 in pregnant women is important to understand and improve health outcomes for mothers and newborns.An?MMWR?study suggests that pregnant women with COVID-19 are more likely to be hospitalized and are at increased risk for intensive care unit (ICU) admission and receipt of mechanical ventilation than nonpregnant women. Risk of death is similar for both groups. But much remains unknown.SOURCE: . And . Additional Sources if asked:Lei D WC, Li C, Fang C, Yang W, Cheng B, Wei M, Xu X, Yang H, Wang S, Fan C. Clinical characteristics of pregnancy with the 2019 novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) infection. Chinese Journal Perinatal Medicine 2020;23(3). Chen H GJ, Wang C, Luo F, Yu X, Zhang W, Li J, Zhao D, Xu D, Gong Q, Liao J, Yang H, Hou W, Zhang Y. Clinical characteristics and intrauterine vertical transmission potential of COVID-19 infection in nine pregnant women: a retrospective review of medical records. Lancet 2020;395(10226):809-15.Rasmussen SA, Smulian JC, Lednicky JA, Wen TS, Jamieson DJ. Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) and Pregnancy: What obstetricians need to know. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2020 Feb 24. How are health departments helping to understand the risk for pregnant women?CDC is collaborating with state, local, and territorial health departments and external partners to better understand COVID-19 during pregnancy. Health departments that are notified of COVID-19 cases in pregnant women may collect more information on these women using?an optional module?pdf?in addition to the?case report form. Findings will be rapidly translated into updated clinical guidance for pregnant women and infants. If a pregnant woman has COVID-19, will it hurt the baby/fetus?CDC recognizes that the ideal setting for the care of a healthy, full-term newborn during the birth hospitalization is within the mother’s room. Temporary separation of the newborn from a mother with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 should be considered to reduce the risk of spreading the virus to the newborn. The risks and benefits of temporary separation of the mother from her newborn should be discussed with the mother by her healthcare team. Decisions about temporary separation should be made with respect to the mother’s wishes. If the mother chooses a temporary separation to reduce risk of spreading the virus and would like to breastfeed, she should express breast milk and have a healthy caregiver who is not at?high-risk for severe illness?from COVID-19 bottle feed the newborn the expressed breast milk if possible.If the mother with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 does not choose temporary separation in the hospital, she should take precautions to avoid spreading the virus to the newborn, including washing her hands and wearing a mask when within 6 feet of her newborn. The newborn should be kept ≥6 feet away from the mother, as much as possible, including the use of physical barriers (e.g., placing the newborn in an incubator).If you are worried, please reach out to your healthcare provider by phone. We cannot provide medical recommendations.SOURCE: If a mother has COVID-19 will her baby have COVID-19, too?An infant being breastfed by a mother who is?suspected?or confirmed to have COVID-19 should be considered as having suspected COVID-19—when the infant’s testing results are not available—for the duration of the mother’s recommended period of?home isolation?and 14 days thereafter. The same approach should be taken with respect to an infant who has any other ongoing, close contact with another person who has suspected or confirmed COVID-19. Mothers should be counseled to inform their child’s healthcare provider that their child has had high-risk contact with a person suspected or confirmed to have COVID-19.Sources: and am breastfeeding my nine-month-old, is it still safe with COVID-19 around?The Ohio Department of Health, in alignment with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), World Health Organization (WHO), and Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine, recommends breastfeeding as the optimal feeding choice for infants, even during the COVID-19 pandemic. During this time, the Ohio Department of Health strongly recommends that all new mothers continue to safely feed their babies by following these CDC-recommended steps for feeding with respiratory infections: Mothers who choose to breastfeed:Breast milk provides protection against many illnesses and is the best source of nutrition for most infants. Learn more about breastfeeding.You, along with your family and healthcare providers, should decide whether and how to start or continue breastfeeding.We do not know for sure if mothers with COVID-19 can spread the virus to babies in their breast milk, but the limited data available suggest this is not likely.If you have COVID-19 and choose to breastfeed:Wear a facial covering or mask while breastfeeding or expressing milkWash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds before each feeding.If you have COVID-19 and choose to express breast milk:Use a dedicated breast pump (not shared).Wear a mask during expression and wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds before touching any pump or bottle parts and before expressing breast milk.Follow recommendations for proper pump cleaning after each use, cleaning all parts that come into contact with breast milk.If possible, expressed breast milk should be fed to the infant by a healthy caregiver who does not have COVID-19, is not at high-risk for severe illness from COVID-19, and is living in the same home.If you have questions, contact your local WIC clinic for further guidance or call 1-844-601-0365 to connect with your closest WIC clinic. You can also reach out to the Appalachian Breastfeeding Network Statewide 24/7 Hotline at 1-888-588-3423.SOURCE: information: I am breastfeeding my child, is it still the best way to feed him/her?Breast milk is the best source of nutrition for most infants. We do not know whether mothers with COVID-19 can transmit the virus via breast milk, but the limited data available suggest this is not likely. Whether and how to start or continue breastfeeding should be determined by the mother in coordination with her family and healthcare providers. A mother with confirmed COVID-19 should be counseled to take precautions to avoid spreading the virus to her infant, including?handwashing?and?wearing a cloth face covering.An infant being breastfed by a mother who is?suspected?or confirmed to have COVID-19 should be considered as having suspected COVID-19—when the infant’s testing results are not available—for the duration of the mother’s recommended period of?home isolation?and 14 days thereafter. The same approach should be taken with respect to an infant who has any other ongoing, close contact with another person who has suspected or confirmed COVID-19. Mothers should be counseled to inform their child’s healthcare provider that their child has had high-risk contact with a person suspected or confirmed to have COVID-19.Sources: and have an infant at home We can’t find formula and I’m not expressing milk anymore. Can I use a homemade formula recipe to make our own?No. Homemade recipes are never recommended by the CDC, FDA, or ODH. Homemade baby formula recipes online and on social media are NOT recommended and can be dangerous for your baby.If you need help getting formula, you can reach out to your local WIC clinic. Call 1-844-601-0365 to connect with your closest WIC clinic. Do we need to handle newborn screening samples any differently?Handling newborn screening specimens for babies born to women who have confirmed, or suspected COVID-19 should follow normal handling and shipping practices for newborn screening specimens. All newborn screening specimens, like all medical specimens, should be treated as if they contain bloodborne pathogens. Newborn screening specimens should always be handled using universal precautions required to avoid contact with blood or bodily fluids. After collection, the blood spots should be air dried in a horizontal position for 3-4 hours on a clean dry surface or drying rack. Once dried, the protective flap attached to the back of the card should be folded up and around the blood spots before placing the specimens in the shipping envelope. The shipping envelope should be properly labeled with a biohazard and shipped by Mercury Services.SOURCE: ODH Lab.COVID-19 and ChildrenWhat is the risk of my child becoming sick with COVID-19?According to the CDC, based on available evidence, children do not appear to be at higher risk for COVID-19 than adults. While some children and infants have been sick with COVID-19, adults make up most of the known cases to date. Children with underlying medical conditions may be at higher risk for more severe symptoms.SOURCE: Are the symptoms of COVID-19 different in children than in adults?According to the CDC, no. The symptoms of COVID-19 are similar in children and adults. However, children with confirmed COVID-19 generally present with mild symptoms. If you are worried about any symptoms, please call your healthcare provider to discuss your concerns over the phone. SOURCE: What are the symptoms of COVID-19 in children?The symptoms of COVID-19 are similar in adults and children and can look like other common illnesses, like colds, strep throat, or allergies. The most common symptoms of COVID-19 in children are fever and cough, but children may have any of these signs or symptoms of COVID-19:Fever or chillsCoughNasal congestion or runny noseNew loss of taste or smellSore throatShortness of breath or difficulty breathingDiarrheaNausea or vomitingStomachacheTirednessHeadacheMuscle or body achesPoor appetite or poor feeding, especially in babies under 1 year oldSOURCE: What should I monitor?Pay particular attention to:Fever (temperature 100.4 °F or higher)Sore throatNew uncontrolled cough that causes difficulty breathing (for a child with chronic allergic/asthmatic cough, see if there is a change from their usual cough)Diarrhea, vomiting, or stomachacheNew onset of severe headache, especially with a feverSOURCE: What is Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C)?Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) is a condition where different body parts can become inflamed, including the heart, lungs, kidneys, brain, skin, eyes, or gastrointestinal organs. Children with MIS-C may have a fever and various symptoms, including abdominal (gut) pain, vomiting, diarrhea, neck pain, rash, bloodshot eyes, or feeling extra tired. We do not yet know what causes MIS-C. However, many children with MIS-C had the virus that causes COVID-19 or had been around someone with COVID-19.SOURCE: should I do if I think my child has MIS-C? (Parents)Contact your child’s doctor, nurse, or clinic right away if your child is showing symptoms of MIS-C:FeverAbdominal painVomitingDiarrheaNeck painRashBloodshot eyesFeeling extra tiredBe aware that not all children will have all the same symptoms.Seek emergency care right away if your child is showing any of these emergency warning signs of MIS-C or other concerning signs:Trouble breathingPain or pressure in the chest that does not go awayNew confusionInability to wake or stay awakeBluish lips or faceSevere abdominal painSOURCE: What can I do to protect my child?Follow these everyday preventive actions and tips to help children stay healthy.Clean hands often using soap and water or alcohol-based hand sanitizer.Avoid people who are sick (coughing and sneezing).Put distance between your children and other people outside of your home. Keep children at least 6 feet from other people.Children 2 years and older should wear a mask?over their nose and mouth when in public settings where it’s difficult to practice social distancing. This is an additional public health measure people should take to reduce the spread of COVID-19 in addition to?(not instead of) the other everyday preventive actions listed above.Clean and disinfect high-touch surfaces daily in household common areas (like tables, hard-backed chairs, doorknobs, light switches, remotes, handles, desks, toilets, and sinks).Launder items including washable plush toys as needed. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions. If possible, launder items using the warmest appropriate water setting and dry items completely. Dirty laundry from an ill person can be washed with other people’s items.Make sure your children are up to date on well-child visits and immunizations.SOURCE: How can I manage play dates during COVID?An important guiding principle to remember is that the more people children interact with, and the longer that interaction, the higher the risk of COVID-19 spread. While children may be spending time with other people as they return to daycare or school settings, it is important to remember that exposure to additional children and adults outside of daycare or school should be managed to decrease risk.For playdates, the risk of COVID-19 increases as follows:Lowest risk: No in-person playdates. Children connect virtually (via phone calls and video chats).Medium risk: Infrequent playdates with the same family or friend who is also practicing everyday preventive measures. Children maintain 6 feet distance from each other during the playdate. Playdates should be held outdoors, if possible. Indoor spaces are more risky than outdoor space where it might be harder to keep children apart and there is less ventilation.Highest Risk: Frequent indoor playdates with multiple friends or families who are not practicing everyday preventive measures. Children do not maintain a 6 feet distance from each other.To help children maintain social connections while social distancing, help your children have supervised phone calls or video chats with their friends.Clean hands oftenMake sure children practice everyday preventive behaviors, such as washing their hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. This is especially important if you have been in a public place.SOURCE: What happens to kids in foster care who age out during this pandemic and can’t support themselves? On April 24, 2020, Governor DeWine announced that the state will cover the costs for all the youth who would normally age out of the system to stay in care until the pandemic ends. We’re also making this option available for the young people in our Ohio Department of Jobs and Family Services Bridges program, our foster care to age-21 program. Young people turning 21 over the next few months can stay in Bridges to help them maintain their housing, jobs, and education. We encourage county children services agencies, juvenile courts, and the foster youth, themselves, to take advantage of this new opportunity.Where can I report child abuse or neglect during this time?If you suspect abuse or neglect, please call 1-855-OH-CHILD (1-855-642-4453).Custody and ParentingIf a parent has a court ordered shared parenting agreement, can one parent claim there would be harm to a child of a healthcare worker and withhold the child from seeing the other parent?Court orders for shared parenting must be enforced, even for health care workers.With respect to parenting time issues and the state-ordered school closures, parents who have shared parenting plans or custody orders should continue to follow those orders to the best of their abilities and in the spirit intended by the Court. Parties should adhere to all holiday and spring break schedules as designated by their schools at the beginning of the school year regardless of recent changes. They should follow the regular parenting schedule during all other times unless their orders specifically address school closures. The parties should also communicate about the location, health, and welfare of the children daily and should discuss travel plans and arrangements as required by their parenting plans or custody orders. Parents should be referred to their attorney and the domestic court with jurisdiction.SOURCE: if I drive to another state to pick up my son/daughter from their other parent for our custody agreement? Do we have to quarantine?Individuals traveling into and out of Ohio for essential reasons—such as caring for elderly, persons with disabilities, or other vulnerable persons, and transporting children pursuant to a custody agreement—do not need to self-quarantine. If they display COVID-19 symptoms they should self-isolate.COVID-19, Renters, Foreclosure and EvictionI am being evicted/foreclosed upon. I have been unable to pay my rent and my landlord is making plans to evict me. What can I do?Eviction and Foreclosure: Federal OrdersThe Secretary of Housing and Urban Development shall act, as appropriate and consistent with applicable law, to promote the ability of renters and homeowners to avoid eviction or foreclosure resulting from financial hardships caused by COVID-19. Such action may include encouraging and assisting public housing authorities, affordable housing owners, landlords, and recipients of Federal grant funds in minimizing evictions and foreclosures.Specifically, Properties secured by FHA-insured single-family mortgages are subject to a moratorium on foreclosure for a period of 60 days. The moratorium applies to the initiation of foreclosures and to the completion of foreclosures in process. Similarly, evictions of persons from properties secured by FHA-insured Single-family mortgages are also suspended for a period of 60 days. In addition, deadlines of the first legal action and reasonable diligence timelines are extended by 60 days.President Biden signed an Executive Order extending the current eviction ban, through March 31, 2021. provides a Moratorium Declaration form for tenants to use, as well as other information about the eviction ban. ? If you have questions, or need assistance, please call the Ohio Housing Finance Agency, at 1-888-362-6432, or the Ohio State Legal Services Association, at 614-221-7201.SOURCE: and Are residential evictions still allowed?The Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) executed an order on September 4, 2020 prohibiting landlords, property owners, or other persons with a legal right to pursue eviction from taking any action to remove qualified tenants from their residence until after December 31, 2020. The Order applies only to residential property and does not cover commercial property. The Order does not relieve the tenant of any obligation to pay rent, make a housing payment, or comply with any other obligation that the individual may have under a tenancy, lease, or similar contract. The Order also does not prohibit a landlord or property owner from the charging or collecting of fees, penalties, or interest as a result of the failure to pay rent or other housing payment on a timely basis, under the terms of any applicable contract. Evictions still may be filed for reasons other than non-payment of rent, including engaging in criminal activity on the property, threatening the health or safety of other residents, damaging the property, violating health and building codes, or violating any other lease requirement not related to paying rent.President Biden signed an Executive Order extending the current eviction ban through March 31, 2021. provides a Moratorium Declaration form for tenants to use, as well as other information about the eviction ban. If you have questions, or need assistance, please call the Ohio Housing Finance Agency, at 1-888-362-6432, or the Ohio State Legal Services Association, at 614-221-7201.See: . What has Ohio put into place to prevent commercial evictions and foreclosures? Executive Order 2020-08D seeks to provide some assistance for Ohio’s small businesses with mortgage and rent payments. It was signed on April 1, 2020 and was in effect from 04-01-2020 to 06/29/2020. Details are available at: Sector Specific GuidanceAdult Day and Senior CentersSee: How do we sign up for the phone call check ins for older adults?The Ohio Department of Aging is offering a free, daily check-in phone call for older adults aged 60+. This program will automatically contact participants each day to confirm they are ok. This service can also connect them to live support. Find out more and register at aging. or by calling 1-833-ODA-CHAT (1-833-632-2428)Assisted Living Facilities & Intermediate Care Facilities for Individuals with Intellectual DisabilitiesWhere can I return unused NovaDx test kits?The NovaDx test for assisted living is coordinated through the Ohio Department of Aging and the Ohio Department of Health. Contact ALCOVIDTesting@age. to return kits.I work in an assisted living facility. Where can we get information on the new testing and when does it start?Each residential care facility (also known as assisted living) licensed by the Ohio Department of Health (ODH) shall cooperate with COVID-19 testing for residents and staff as required by the State. This includes, but is not limited to, strategic testing of residents to prevent the spread of COVID-19 within a facility and a community. Each residential care facility in Ohio must also require all staff to be tested. See: Please refer any facility to directly contact COVIDTesting@age. and this website: for a copy of the Governor’s order go to: Athletic/SportsSee: has the Governor recommended for athletic events?Refer to sector specific guidance: order: Can conditioning for sports continue? Skills training for all sports may resume on May 26th - including contact sports - as long as safety protocols can be followed. Information on protocols can be found at coronavirus.. Tournaments, games, competitions for contact sports are still prohibited for now.When can sports leagues continue?On May 14, 2020, Lt. Governor Husted announced low-contact or non-contact sports can resume on May 26 if they can meet safety protocols. More details on safety protocols will be posted soon at coronavirus.. When can contact sports continue? On June 22, 2020, contact practice for all sports may resume. Football, lacrosse and other contact sports can resume scrimmages and full training regiments, as long as, safety protocols are observed.On July 7, 2020, Lt. Governor Husted announced that ODH issued a Director’s Order providing guidance through July 15, 2020, for contact sport competitions. Competitive games and tournaments are now permitted for contact sports during this period and under the specified guidelines. These competitions must follow the guidance posted at coronavirus. under responsible restart Ohio. Contact practice may begin, but it will be up to local sports organizers and high school leaders on when it is the best time to proceed. Training guidance will be updated soon and will be available on the coronavirus..Can you tell me about high school sports?For information on high school sports contact the Ohio High School Athletic Association at (614) 267-2502 orohsaa1907@ or visit their website, . Questions regarding student eligibility should be directed to?your school’s athletic administrator prior to contacting the OHSAA. The OHSAA will work directly with the athletic administrator to provide any interpretations and rulings.?For school specific sport questions, contact the school athletic administrator.Barber Shops, Hair Salons, Tattoo ParlorsWhat will happen as salons and barbershops reopen? What will be different?On May 7, 2020, Governor DeWine announced that on May 15, 2020, hair salons, barbershops, nail salons and other personal services will open.There have been multiple changes announced to make the reopening as safe as possible. These changes include:You may be asked to wait in your car until your stylist is ready.Unless there is a child or required caregiver with you, we ask that only the one being serviced for the appointment enter the salon or barbershop. There will be no samples or product testing or shared magazines or items in the waiting room.The workers will be wearing masks, and it is up to the facility to decide if they will require customers and clients to wear masks or facial coverings during services. Are tattoo parlors opening at the same time as salons and barbershops?Yes, they will reopen on May 15, 2020. More details about their opening procedures are available at coronavirus.. Camping and Campgrounds, State ParksSee: I heard state parks were closed. Can we go to parks now?To find out the state parks schedule or make/cancel reservations, visit or call 866-644-6727.Casinos and RacinosSee: Child CareSee: What does the bill signed March 27, 2020 do for child/day care?Child-day care center staff member ratios have been limited to protect kids during the period of emergency, but not beyond December 1, 2020.The date by which publicly funded childcare providers must be rated through the Step Up to Quality Program has been extended to September 1, 2020. The Ohio Department of Job and Family Services will continue to pay providers of publicly funded childcare.When will childcare re-open? Beginning Sunday, May 31st childcare providers in Ohio will be able to re-open, with reduced numbers of children in each classroom and intensified cleaning and handwashing practices.More information can be found on coronavirus.What will change as childcare reopens? The following changes will take place:Use “curbside” drop-off and pick-up when possible. Have a dedicated staff person escort your child into and out of their childcare facility each day.Wash children’s hands upon arrival and before departure.Have adults and school age children wear masks. Limit mixing of classrooms. Sanitize toys after each use and remove toys that cannot be sanitizedStagger the use of communal spaces, such as playgrounds and lunchrooms, until they can be sanitized. Parents are asked to consider the following when taking their children back to childcare:Childcare providers are limited in the number of children they can serve. If you can stay home with your child, please do so. This will help keep limited childcare spots available for families that have no other childcare options. Children run fevers for many reasons, such as teething or colds. If your child is running a fever of 100 degrees or more, do not take them to childcare. Your child should stay home for at least 24 hours after their fever subsides. Watch for symptoms of COVID-19, such as sore throat, cough, fever, headache, runny nose, and difficulty breathing. If your child is exhibiting any of these symptoms, contact your pediatrician and keep your child home from childcare. If your child has been in contact with someone who is suspected of having COVID-19 or has tested positive for COVID-19, you should follow your local health jurisdiction’s quarantine guidelines. The safest way to prevent the potential spread of COVID-19 is to stay at home for 14 days after contact with someone with COVID-19. The Ohio Department of Health adopted new guidance from the CDC in December 2020, which will allow for those without symptoms to complete a 10-day quarantine with no test, although a test is recommended on day 8 or later of your quarantine, or a 7-day quarantine requiring testing on day five or later. Everyone quarantining should maintain social distance of at least 6 feet and wear a mask when around others. You should also keep an eye out for any symptoms for the full 14-day period. If you become sick or test positive for COVID-19, stay home and self-isolate in a separate room from others. If your child has tested positive for COVID-19, they should not return to childcare for at least ten days since the onset of symptoms and at least 24 hours without a fever, without the help of fever-reducing medicines, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. On May 14, 2020, Governor DeWine announced they would be conducting a scientific study about the best practices to re-open childcare settings. The data collected in this study will help inform future decisions about childcare. More information can be found on coronavirus.What about childcare?On May 14, 2020, Governor DeWine announced that beginning Sunday, May 31st childcare providers in Ohio will be able to re-open, with reduced numbers of children in each classroom and intensified cleaning and handwashing practices.More information can be found on coronavirus.Centers should keep children of parents who work at the same employer together and should limit all parent interaction at drop off and pick up. If you are working from home, please consider caring for your child to lessen the burden on childcare centers. For those of you who can’t, start thinking about what you would do for childcare if they did close.If you normally rely on elderly grandparents to provide emergency childcare, please consider alternative options since older Ohioans are considered high risk. This is the time where we look to neighbors and friends to provide support.The Governor signed an executive order that will provide temporary relief to childcare providers regarding teacher to student ratios. These will apply to preschool and school-aged children. The Department of Jobs and Family Services will work with our publicly funded childcare providers to make sure they continue to receive payments when a child is absent, or if they need to close due to COVID-19. They have also provided guidance to make sure facilities are as clean as possible to prevent the spread of infection.I am a childcare provider; how can I get assistance with the new reopening guidelines and limitations? On May 14, 2020, Governor DeWine announced Ohio is utilizing more than $60 million in federal CARES Act funding to provide reopening grants to all of Ohio’s childcare providers. This includes family childcare, childcare centers, and both publicly funded and private providers. All are eligible for this grant program.More information can be found on the website for the Department of Jobs and Family Services once it is available. Congregate Settings – Group HomeHave there been positive cases at any behavioral health facilities in Ohio?Yes, there have been positive cases at behavioral health facilities. Facilities throughout the state are taking every precaution to prevent the spread of COVID-19, and in the case of a positive test, follow procedures to isolate any ill patients, quarantine any impacted patients and staff and conduct thorough disinfection and cleaning. On March 1, 2021, the state will lift restrictions on visitors to our state’s behavioral health hospitals. There will be certain safety measures in place to protect patients and staff, such as mask requirements, hand hygiene protocols, and time limits.Can family members visit their loved ones at group homes?Yes, family members may visit their loved ones at group homes, provided they follow the facility’s procedures and wear a facial covering, such as a mask. However, visitors should take every precaution to ensure they are healthy and have not been exposed to COVID-19 prior to visiting, and follow any guidelines issued by the group home. For example, some group homes may require that visitation occur outdoors only.On May 19, 2020 Governor DeWine and the ODH Director announced the Ohioans Protecting Ohioans Urgent Health Advisory. While this advisory lifts the requirement that Ohioans stay home, outside of essential activity, it does still highly recommend that Ohioans stay home as much as possible. The order takes into consideration that high-risk Ohioans, including older Ohioans, should take extra precaution, and social distancing is still highly recommended. The advisory can be found at coronavirus. . Those who take care of elderly residents can still do so, without coming in contact with them.Also, during this time, some group homes may be enforcing extraordinary measures to reduce risk of residents being exposed to COVID-19. However, all clients have basic rights. If you are concerned that a client’s rights have been violated please contact your local ADAMH Board. Also, talk with the group home operator to see if you can establish alternatives to face-to-face visitation (virtual visitation).On March 1, 2021, the state will lift restrictions on visitors to our state’s behavioral health hospitals. There will be certain safety measures in place to protect patients and staff, such as mask requirements, hand hygiene protocols, and time limits.A list by county of board client rights officers and provider crisis contacts is available at OhioMHAS Consumer and Family Toll-Free Bridge (TFB)?line provides referral and resource information for callers regarding addiction and mental health services, supports and organizations statewide.?TFB staff members are peers who often work to help callers find the resources they need, learn about the referral process to access those resources, and understand?consumer rights and responsibilities.?The goal of this?free telephone service?is to promote advocacy, independence and recovery for?Ohioans with behavioral health issues.Other resources:877-275-6364888-636-4889 TTY614-466-7228 (local)What should a mental health agency do if a staff, resident or patient comes in with a suspected or confirmed case of COVID-19?If a behavioral health treatment provider believes that a patient could have COVID19, they should contact their local health department.How should someone be handled if turned away from a mental health facility?If someone is looking for a treatment provider, they can call the OhioMHAS bridge line Monday – Friday from 8:30AM to 5:00PM, or they can search online at . The OhioMHAS Consumer and Family Toll-Free Bridge (TFB)?line provides referral and resource information for callers regarding addiction and mental health services, supports and organizations statewide.?TFB staff members are peers who often work to help callers find the resources they need, learn about the referral process to access those resources, and understand?consumer rights and responsibilities.?The goal of this?free telephone service?is to promote advocacy, independence and recovery for?Ohioans with behavioral health issues.The Ohio Department of Mental Health?and Addiction Services (OhioMHAS) provides a variety of advocacy services for consumers and families, including but not limited to sharing mental?illness and addiction resources, and providing assistance?to resolve complaints and grievances. OhioMHAS collaborates with regional psychiatric hospitals, community boards, treatment providers and stakeholders to address advocacy issues, client rights, allegations of abuse or neglect, and respond to larger systems issues.A list by county of board client rights officers and provider crisis contacts is available at to reach the TFB resources:877-275-6364888-636-4889 TTY614-466-7228 (local)Email: ask@ODMH@mh. ?If a state mental health hospital employee is concerned about another employee being exposed to COVID-19 what should they do?Please have them contact their hospital CEO to discuss any concern. OhioMHAS’ state run psychiatric hospitals are implementing specialized guidance and screening protocols to mitigate risk and limit exposure to Coronavirus. A list of facilities is available at the link below.SOURCE: How can I get counseling and/or mental and behavioral health services while limiting my exposure to COVDI-19?Contact your healthcare provider to discuss how recent changes to Ohio and Federal Laws has changed access to telehealth services.State of OhioGovernor Mike DeWine signed an order on April 4 allowing for access to mental and behavioral health services using telehealth. This includes individual and family counseling, as well as other services. Reach out to your mental health professional or counselor to use these telehealth services. You must have had at least one first face-to-face meeting with one of these professionals.Centers for Medicare and Medicaid ServicesBeginning July 1, 2019, the Substance Use-Disorder Prevention that Promotes Opioid Recovery and Treatment (SUPPORT) for Patients and Communities Act removes the originating site geographic conditions and adds an individual’s home as a permissible originating telehealth services site for treatment of a substance use disorder or a co-occurring mental health disorder.SOURCE: Should I go into work if I work at a residential addiction facility?All organizations should develop responsible policies and procedures for persons diagnosed with COVID-19 or who are suspected to have COVID-19. Limiting entry of visitors and guests is key in these cases as well as following other ODH advice about facility, staff, and resident cleanliness. Coronavirus related guidance for Behavioral Health Providers can be found on the Coronavirus page of mha.. I want to visit my son/daughter/friend at a group home and I’m being denied access. Why?During this time, some group homes may be enforcing extraordinary measures to reduce risk of residents being exposed to Coronavirus. However, all clients have basic rights. If you are concerned that a client’s rights have been violated please contact your local ADAMH Board. Also, talk with the group home operator to see if you can establish alternatives to face-to-face visitation (virtual visitation). HYPERLINK "" List by County of Board Client Rights Officers and Provider Crisis Contacts.The OhioMHAS Consumer and Family Toll-Free Bridge (TFB) line provides referral and resource information for callers regarding addiction and mental health services, supports and organizations statewide. TFB staff members are peers who often work to help callers find the resources they need, learn about the referral process to access those resources, and understand consumer rights and responsibilities. The goal of this free telephone service is to promote advocacy, independence and recovery for Ohioans with behavioral health issues.877-275-6364888-636-4889 TTY614-466-7228 (local)What do we do at our mental health agency if we think a client has COVID-19?If a behavioral health treatment provider believes that a patient could have COVID-19, they should isolate the client, provide a mask for source control and follow the agency’s COVID-19 protocol. Contact their local health department. Consider telehealth visits for the future.How do we handle someone turned away from a mental health facility?If someone is looking for a treatment provider, they can call the OhioMHAS bridge line Monday – Friday from 8:30AM to 5:00PM, or they can search on-line at .The Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (OhioMHAS) provides a variety of advocacy services for consumers and families, including but not limited to sharing mental illness and addiction resources, and providing assistance to resolve complaints and grievances. OhioMHAS collaborates with regional psychiatric hospitals, community boards, treatment providers and stakeholders to address advocacy issues, client rights, allegations of abuse or neglect, and respond to larger systems issues.List by County of Board Client Rights Officers and Provider Crisis ContactsThe OhioMHAS Consumer and Family Toll-Free Bridge (TFB)?line provides referral and resource information for callers regarding addiction and mental health services, supports and organizations statewide.?TFB staff members are peers who often work to help callers find the resources they need, learn about the referral process to access those resources, and understand?consumer rights and responsibilities.?The goal of this?free telephone service?is to promote advocacy, independence and recovery for?Ohioans with behavioral health issues.877-275-6364888-636-4889 TTY614-466-7228 (local)Or click to emailOur state mental health hospital employee is picking up their kid from a school that was closed due to a suspected case. Should they come back to work?If this is a state employee, please have them contact their hospital CEO to discuss any concern. OhioMHAS’ state run psychiatric hospitals are implementing specialized guidance and screening protocols to mitigate risk and limit exposure to Coronavirus.How can older Ohioans access local services?Call the Ohio Department of Aging at 1-866-243-5678 for local services available for older Ohioans.Consumer, Retail, Services & EntertainmentSee: I work for an essential retail business (grocery, garden, etc.), what do I need to do to enforce social distancing and prevent the spread of COVID-19?Stores have been ordered to perform the following activities to help prevent the spread of infection:Determine and enforce the maximum capacity of persons permitted in any store such that at all persons in a store at any one time may safely and comfortably maintain a six-foot distance from each other. This number will vary for each store. Every store shall prominently display at every entrance the maximum capacity number. Every store shall ensure that baskets, shopping carts and the like are properly cleaned between customers. If a line is present either inside or outside the store, a six-foot distance shall be maintained between those not residing in the same household. What specifically do we need to do to reopen as a consumer/retail/services company?With the new Stay Safe at Home order here in Ohio, which takes effect May 1, 2020, all retail businesses (unless otherwise noted as closed in the order at coronavirus.) that were previously ordered to close may reopen effective 12:01 am on May 12, 2020. Those that reopen will be required to follow the operating guidelines for preventing COVID-19 spread.Currently, closed retail establishments and facilities that will restrict their operations to curbside pickup, delivery or appointment-only (limited to 10 customers at any one time) may reopen May 1 at 11:59 pm.Here is what is required:Ensure minimum 6 ft between people. If not possible, install barriers.Employees must perform daily symptom assessmentRequire employees to stay home if symptomatic Require regular handwashing Employees and employers are required to wear facemasks at all times while at work. Place hand sanitizers in high-contact locations Clean high-touch items after each use (e.g. carts, baskets)Specify hours for at-risk populations (e.g. elderly) Place hand sanitizers in high-contact locations Ask customers and guests not to enter if symptomatic Face coverings to be worn while shopping or visiting Stagger entry of customers and guestPost social distancing signage & disinfect high-contact surfaces hourly Clean merchandise before stocking if possible Establish maximum capacity (e.g. 50% of fire code) Discontinue self-service food stations, product samples Food courts remain closedHere is what is recommended for best practice:Face coverings should be worn at all times by clients and customers. It Is not mandatory for customers but is mandatory for employees.Group employees by shift to reduce exposureHealth questionnaire for symptoms at entry point Provide face coverings upon entry Where possible, accept customers by appointment only Increase availability for curb-side pickup Consider suspending return policiesClose once a week for deep cleaning Maximize available checkout space to promote social distancing (e.g., space customer lines with floor markers, use alternate registers) Use contact-less payments where possible Increase capacity for delivery and curb-side pickupWork with local health department to identify potentially infected or exposed individuals to help facilitate effective exposure notification/ notifications Once testing is readily available, test all suspected infections or exposures Following testing, contact local health department to initiate appropriate care and tracingIndustry-specific required criteria can be found at coronavirus.ResponsibleRestartOhioWhen will aquariums, ice skating, etc. open?Day camps and residential camps may open at any time. Entertainment venues listed below may open beginning June 10th if they are able to follow Retail, Consumer, Service & Entertainment Guidelines and other applicable additional guidance:AquariumsArt galleriesCountry clubsIce skating rinksIndoor family entertainment centersIndoor sports facilitiesLaser tag facilitiesMovie theaters (indoor)MuseumsPlaygrounds (outdoor)Public recreation centersRoller skating rinksSocial clubsTrampoline parksZoosHealth orders will be posted on coronavirus. when available.Beginning March 2, 2021, the following rules are in effect for spectators for sports and entertainment venues:The maximum number of spectators in any indoor sports venue shall be 25% of fixed, seated capacity.The maximum number of spectators permitted in any outdoor sports venue shall be 30% of fixed, seated capacity.The maximum number of patrons permitted in any indoor entertainment venue shall be 25% of fixed, seated capacity.The maximum number of patrons gathered in any outdoor entertainment venue shall be 30% fixed, seated capacity.Order: Are golf clubs and courses still open?If your golf course is operating as an outdoor recreation opportunity and abiding by all the order’s social distancing requirements, there is likely not a health concern. Remember, if you are running an essential business, you have a responsibility to make sure that physical distancing and other protective measures are being adhered to.parks, and water parks, will be able to open. Where can we access library programs still?Library materials and online programs are available online at the library’s website or on coronavirus. or at the State Library of Ohio website at What can private businesses do to help?Updated strategies and recommendations for employers responding to COVID-19, including those seeking to resume normal or phased business operations: Conducting daily health checksConducting a hazard assessment of the workplaceEncouraging employees to wear cloth face coverings in the workplace, if appropriateImplementing policies and practices for social distancing in the workplaceImproving the building ventilation systemTABLE: Example Controls to Prevent the Spread of COVID-19 in Work EnvironmentsEngineeringAdministrativePPEFacilities and Equipment Assess job hazards for feasibility of engineering controlsEnsure ventilation and water systems operate properlyAlter workspaces to maintain social distancing. Examples include: Configure partitions as a barrier shieldMove electronic payment reader away from cashierUse verbal announcements, signage, and visual cues to promote social distancingRemove/rearrange furnitureProvide remote shopping alternatives (e.g., delivery, pick-up)Management and Communications Monitor state and local public health communications about COVID-19Encourage sick workers to report symptoms, stay home, and follow CDC guidanceDevelop strategies to: manage worker concernscommunicate with workersRemind workers of available support servicesCommunicate to partners, suppliers, other contractors on policies and practicesEncourage social distancing and the use of cloth face coverings (if appropriate) in the workplaceUse technology to promote social distancing (e.g., telework and virtual meetings)Cancel group eventsClose/limit use of shared spacesAsk customers who are ill to stay homeConsider policies that encourage flexible sick leave and alternative work schedules.Schedule stocking during off-peak hoursCleaning and DisinfectionClean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces, (e.g., counters, shelving, displays)Provide employees with disposable disinfectant wipes, cleaner, or sprays that are effective against the virus that causes COVID-19TrainingProvide employees with training on:Policies to reduce the spread of COVID-19General hygieneSymptoms, what to do if sickCleaning and disinfectionCloth face coversSocial distancingUse of PPESafe work practicesStress managementConduct workplace hazard assessmentDetermine what PPE is needed for their workers’ specific job duties based on hazards and other controls presentSelect and provide appropriate PPE to the workers at no cost.SOURCE: DeWine said all businesses should be taking their employees’ temperatures before they come to work. I am an employer and I am not able to find thermometers to purchase due to shortages. What should I do to comply with the order to take employees’ temperature at work?If it is not feasible to take employees’ temperatures at work, employers should require that employees take their temperature before arriving to work. Anyone with a temperature above 100.4 degrees or higher should self-isolate with members of their household. If they have a fever, they need to stay home until they are fever-free for at least three days.If possible, employees should be working from home and not coming in to work. If any employee is experiencing symptoms like sore throat or a cough, they should stay home and limit their exposure to anyone. If you are still unable to take temperatures or have them take their own temperature, you should screen each of your employees with a basic set of questions:Do they have any symptoms, including fever, cough, or shortness of breath?If yes, they should stay home until they no longer have these symptoms. Have they been exposed to someone with confirmed or suspected COVID-19?If yes, but they don’t have symptoms, then they should stay home for 14-days from the time they were exposed to someone. If yes, and they have these symptoms, they need to stay home for at least ten days from the time they started feeling symptoms, and at least 24 hours after their fever has disappeared without the use of fever reducing medications.If the answers to these questions are no, then they can proceed to work.If employers want to purchase thermometers and can’t find them, you can tell BUSINESSES ONLY to reach out to their county EMA. Do not tell the general public to call them.My employer is not complying with preventative measures, like social distancing and screening employees. How can I report them? Each business should designate an on-site compliance officer for each business location and each shift during all business hours to enforce these requirements. You should talk to your on-site compliance officer about your concerns. Continue to practice proper preventative measures for yourself if you are worried about getting sick. This includes staying at least six feet away from others and washing your hands frequently. For complaints regarding non-compliance What does the state recommend to safely reopen our business?Employees and employers, clients/customers must wear facemasks or face coverings at all times when outside of the home. This can include homemade masks as well. Conduct daily health assessments for each of your employees, or have them do self-assessments, to see if they are health and “fit for duty.” Always maintain proper handwashing protocol and social distancing. Limit the capacity of people in your store to meet social distancing needs. Establish your maximum capacity at 50% of your standing fire code. Use appointment setting where possible to limit congestion. Clean and sanitize workplaces and high-touch areas throughout the workday and at the close of business or between shifts. See link below for additional details.SOURCE: See: What constitutes a daily assessment?For those employees who must report take your temperature with a thermometer each day. If you have a fever at or above 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit, stay home. Also monitor for other symptoms of COVID-19, including coughing, shortness of breath, difficulty breathing chills, fatigue, muscle or body aches, headache, new loss of taste or smell, sore throat, congestion or runny nose, nausea or vomiting, or diarrhea, and stay home if they occur.SOURCE: is COMPANY X (call center, mall, factories, etc.) allowed to stay open and be full of customers or workers if others are closed?Closing these facilities may be something considered in the future after further assessment, but owners have the choice to do what they feel is best for their employees and the Ohioans they serve. We have started with the locations that have the largest impacts, and more closures will be considered as the situation evolves. All businesses have been asked to allow as many employees as possible to work from home to promote social distancing. If employees are continuing to work at the facility, employers should make sure no employees come to work if sick or with a fever. They should all also be following guidance from our website, coronavirus., to make sure they clean and disinfect accordingly.CoronerI work for a coroner’s office. Who do I contact regarding how to test the deceased for COVID-19 and what precautions do I need to take?Contact your local health department. The local health department will consult with us, and possibly the CDC, to see if testing is necessary.More information about postmortem specimens and protocols are here from CDC: Corrections, Prisons and JailsI heard an employee/inmate tested positive at one of Ohio’s Rehabilitation and Corrections facilities. I have a loved one who is an employee/inmate there and am worried about their safety and/or the facility not following safe practices (social distancing, cleaning, etc.)? Please reach out to the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Corrections at 614-387-0588.What has the Governor recommended for corrections facilities?As of July 7, 2020, Outdoor-only visitation has been approved for six facilities, with indoor locations established for circumstances such as inclement weather, etc. Visiting at Dayton Correctional Institution began the week of June 29, 2020. Madison Correctional Institution (Zone B only), Noble Correctional Institution, and Southeastern Correctional Institution resumed visitation on July 8, 2020; Grafton Correctional Institution and Warren Correctional Institution resumed visitation on July 19 and July 26, respectively.Contact the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Corrections at 614-387-0588 for current visitation dates and times.Where do I get COVID-19 statistics on prisoners? are jail releases happening?Jail releases are happening at the county level. These decisions are being made between the local judge, the local prosecutor, and the local sheriff’s office. They are identifying low level offenders and changing their bonds to personal recognizance bonds. Questions about these would need to be directed to your local courts.This will be up to the county judge to make the determination if they should be released early or not. Then it will follow the normal process of early release, with the proper notification to all involved parties. Is anything being done to protect prisoners in jails and prisons, and not just the visitors?DRC is working closely with the Governor’s Office and Ohio Department of Health to monitor the COVID-19 virus and its potential impacts to our organization. We remain committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of our staff, the public, and those under our supervision. We are taking precautions by increasing sanitation, screening of individuals entering the prisons, and controlling the number of individuals coming into the prisons. ODRC has suspended the medical co-pay for incarcerated persons exhibiting flu like symptoms so it will encourage them to seek medical assistance when necessary. We continue to communicate to staff and incarcerated persons the importance of aggressive handwashing, increased sanitation and disinfection and the practice of social distancing where possible.No visits are permitted for prisons. All staff and vendors are screened every day when they come in. No one is brought into the prison if they are having symptoms or may have the disease.Are inmates being released from state prisons too?On April 3, 2020, Governor DeWine announced they were sending letters for local judges to look at 38 different prisoners who may be looked at for early release to help reduce their risk in the large group population of prisoners. They are not sex offenders, domestic abusers, murderers, or violent offenders, and none of them had other outstanding warrants. This group consists of 23 women who are either pregnant or in prison with a child who was born in prison. This also includes 15 people who are over the age of 60 years old and are within 120 days of their originally planned release. They are being considered for early release after a very stringent screening process. This will be up to the county judge to make the determination if they should be released early or not. Then it will follow the normal process of early release, with the proper notification to all involved parties. On April 7, 2020, Governor DeWine announced additional plans for more releases of two additional groups of prisoners. In Ohio law, there is a longstanding statute (ORC 2967.18) that allows the director of Ohio DRC to alert the Correctional Institution Inspection Committee of an overcrowding emergency and recommend that certain inmates be released to make more room. Governor DeWine announced April 7, 2020, plans to notify the CIIC of overcrowding in our prisons. To help relieve this situation, the state has looked at one additional group of specific inmates who could qualify for release who are already scheduled for release within the next 90 days. They narrowed down the list by first looking at those who are set to be released within 90 days and then eliminated those convicted of serious charges such as:?sex offenses, ?homicide-related offenses, ?kidnapping, ?abduction, ?ethnic intimidation, ?making terroristic threats, and?domestic violence.They also screened out those who:?Have been denied judicial release in the past. ?Have prior incarcerations in Ohio?Are inter-state offenders, ?Have warrants or detainers, and ?Those who have serious prison rule violations in the last 5 years.That left the state with 141 inmates who qualify for emergency release under Ohio’s Overcrowding Emergency statute and have a release date on or before July 13, 2020. These inmates are all in our minimum-security prisons. Prisoners in these facilities live in “open bays” w/ 80 to 300 people in a large open room. They sleep in bunks with three feet or less between them. Because of this set-up there is potential for the fast spread of COVID-19.The state looked at another, much smaller, group of inmates who the state believes should also be considered for release. These are inmates who are 60 years or older and have 1 or more chronic health condition that makes them more vulnerable to COVID-19. They also looked for those who've served more than 50% of their sentence. Then started screening out those convicted of charges such as:?sex offenses, ?homicide-related offenses, ?kidnapping, ?abduction, ?ethnic intimidation, ?making terroristic threats, and?domestic violence.They also screened out those who:?Have been denied judicial release in the past. ?Have prior incarcerations in Ohio?Are inter-state offenders, ?Have warrants or detainers, and ?Those who have serious prison rule violations in the last 5 years.They also took out habitual offenders – those with 2 or more prior convictions. This left the state with 26 additional inmates statewide.How will these additional prison releases happen?We must give prosecutors, judges, and victims notice of at least 60 days – and that’s after all the appropriate paperwork has been filed. Because of some of the prisoners’ high-risk status Governor DeWine announced April 7, 2020, that he is asking judges and prosecutors associated with these cases to waive the 60 days’ notice so that they can take these cases directly to the parole board. The parole board is prepared to meet start meeting on Friday to address these matters.In these 26 cases, it is a statutory requirement that the parole board consider and make a recommendation on each of these cases. In those cases where there are specific victims, those victims will receive notice and have the opportunity for their voices to be heard. Once the parole board decides, Governor DeWine will review each one. If the parole board recommends that a sentence be commuted, they can also recommend additional conditions on the release of the inmate. As governor, DeWine can accept and/or add conditions. If the conditions are violated, they'll serve their remaining sentence.On April 15, 2020, Governor DeWine announced that the Correctional Institution Inspection Committee agreed with the limited overcrowdingDental BoardSee: I work for a dentist/healthcare group in Cuyahoga County and need PPE. How can I request it? The Cuyahoga County Board of Health has requested you fill out this survey: RegistrarSee: Drivers Examination ServicesSee: When will BMVs open again?On May 14, 2020, Lt. Governor Husted announced the Ohio BMVs will reopen on May 26 for certain services. Services that can be accomplished online should still be done online. Visit for more info on online services.My driver license expires soon and now I can’t get it renewed with my BMV closed. What if I get a ticket?Governor DeWine asked the Ohio State Highway Patrol and other law enforcement officers to not issue tickets for expired licenses during this period. If a customer’s license, ID card, or vehicle registration (including plates and stickers) expired on or after March 9, 2020, the expiration date has been automatically extended until July 1, 2021.While many BMV locations have reopened, services that can be performed online should still be done online. On August 20, 2020, Lt. Gov. Husted announced that the Ohio BMV started a new program where Ohioans can print temporary tags through , allowing customers to print their temporary tag without going in person.On May 26, 2020, Deputy Registrar locations reopened to the public. On June 12, driver examination stations began resuming in-car skills testing at select locations. The following examination stations are now open?by appointment only. They are:?990 Morse Road, Suite B, Columbus, Ohio 43229 (Franklin County)873 East Main Street, Newark, Ohio 43055 (Licking County)8210 County Rd. 140, Suite C, Findlay, Ohio 45840 (Hancock County)6134 Chambersburg Road, Huber Heights, OH 45424 (Montgomery County)22133 Rockside Road, Bedford, Ohio 44146 (Cuyahoga County)502 McCarty Lane, Suite 3, Jackson, Ohio 45640 (Jackson County)10940 Hamilton Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45231 (Hamilton County)21 5th Street SE, Barberton, OH 44203 (Summit County)5555 Youngstown Warren Road #203, Niles, OH 44446 (Trumbull County)601 Ledbetter Dr. STE C, Xenia, OH 45385 (Greene County)1616 E. Wooster Street, Suite 27 Bowling Green, OH 43402 (Wood County)142 Gross Street, Suite B, Marietta, OH 45750 (Washington County)2324 June Parkway, Zanesville, OH 43701 (Muskingum County)12000 Snow Road, Suite 16, Parma OH 44130 (Cuyahoga County)Customers should call 877-439-8378 or use the BMV’s?Live Chat?feature to schedule a skills test appointment.If a customer’s license, ID card, or vehicle registration (including plates and stickers) expired on or after March 9, 2020, the expiration date has been automatically extended until 90 days after Ohio's state of emergency ends or December 1, 2020, whichever comes first. Governor DeWine asked the Ohio State Highway Patrol and other law enforcement officers to not issue tickets for expired licenses during this period.Services that can be performed online should still be done online. You can get in-line on-line for Ohio’s BMVs at: DirectorI am a funeral director. What precautions should I take to transport a decedent suspected of having COVID-19?Most often, spread from a living person happens with close contact (i.e., within about 6 feet) via respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes, similar to how influenza and other respiratory pathogens spread. This route of transmission is not a concern when handling human remains or performing postmortem procedures. Postmortem activities should be conducted with a focus on avoiding aerosol generating procedures and ensuring that if aerosol generation is likely (e.g., when using an oscillating saw) that appropriate engineering controls and personal protective equipment (PPE) are used. These precautions and the use of Standard Precautions should ensure that appropriate work practices are used to prevent direct contact with infectious material, percutaneous injury, and hazards related to moving heavy remains and handling embalming chemicals.More information about postmortem specimens and protocols are here from CDC: Am I at risk if I go to a funeral or visitation service for someone who died of COVID-19? There is currently no known risk associated with being in the same room at a funeral or visitation service with the body of someone who died of COVID-19. However, you may be at risk of getting COVID-19 if you attend a funeral where there are multiple people congregating. For more information about what you can do to help protect yourself and others from COVID-19 during these services, and to help cope with the loss of a loved one, see Funeral Guidance.SOURCE: What should loved ones know about handling belongings and the body of someone who died from COVID-19? The virus that causes COVID-19 is thought to spread from close contact (i.e., within about 6 feet) with a person who is infected with the virus. The virus spreads primarily through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks.This type of spread is not a concern after death. It may be possible that a person can get COVID-19 by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or possibly their eyes, but this is not thought to be the main way the virus spreads. If the deceased person had confirmed or suspected COVID-19, avoid kissing, washing, or shrouding the body before, during, and after the body has been prepared, if possible. For more information on recommended precautions while handling the belongings and the body of someone who died from COVID-19, see Funeral Guidance.SOURCE: General Office EnvironmentsSee: Gyms, Dance Instruction Studios, and Other Personal Fitness VenuesSee: Healthcare and HospitalsSee: What is included now in restarting the healthcare system including hospitals?As of May 1, 2020, all healthcare procedures that do not require an overnight stay in a hospital may move forward. This includes regular doctor visits, well-care checks, well-baby visits, outpatient surgeries, diagnostic testing and imaging, dental procedures, and veterinary visits. Anything that requires hands-on care in a doctor, dentist, or veterinary office that does not require an overnight stay, may move forward. Telehealth services should continue to be utilized if possible. Prioritization should be given to those who have delayed needed procedures or those with new diagnoses. Elective surgeries and procedures involving an overnight stay continue to not be allowed at this time.More information can be found in the official order at coronavirus.Elective procedures are permitted to resume. What does that mean exactly?On June 2, 2020, Governor DeWine announced that healthcare providers could now resume all surgeries and procedures that had previously been delayed. Providers must follow guidelines for safety and PPE conservation. These guidelines can be found on coronavirus.Who does this order apply to?This order applies to all hospitals and outpatient surgery or procedure provider, whether public, private, or nonprofit. They will establish an internal structure to ensure the principles are followed. How will I know if my procedure is cancelled/scheduled? Your healthcare provider will contact you directly. (ONLY FOR HEALTHCARE GROUPS/PROVIDERS) I work in a healthcare facility and need personal protective equipment (PPE). Can you give us some?Advise them to look within their systems to see if other providers/facilities in their networks may have PPE available. If not, they should call their county Emergency Management Agency (EMA) to request supplies. The local EMA will advise them on next steps. County EMAs can be found here: Where are we supposed to report our inventory for ventilators and other medical supplies?Ask them to report their inventory online at coronavirus.VentInventory. Reports are due each Wednesday by 5:00pm, with the first report due April 1, 2020. Hospitals also are to continue to report daily ventilator data through the Ohio Hospital Association reporting tool.Mental Health and AddictionShould staff at residential addiction facilities go to work?All organizations should develop responsible policies and procedures for persons diagnosed with COVID-19 or who are suspected to have COVID-19. Limiting entry of visitors and guests is key in these cases as well as following other ODH advice about facility, staff, and resident cleanliness. COVID-19 guidance for reopening behavioral health services can be found on the COVID-19 website of mha..SOURCE: and Opioid Treatment (Medication Assistance Programs, Suboxone)How can I get suboxone from facilities?Medications for MAT, including suboxone, are available at many facilities across Ohio. If your regular facility closes or is closed, then please call our helpline for a referral to another opiate use disorder treatment provider. If someone is looking for a treatment provider, they can call the Ohio Mental Health and Addiction Services Consumer and Family Toll-Free Bridge (TFB) line Monday – Friday from 8:30AM to 5:00PM, or they can search on-line at .The TFB line provides referral and resource information for callers regarding addiction and mental-health services statewide. TFB staff members help callers find the resources they need, learn about the referral process to access resources and understand consumer rights and responsibilities. The goal of the free telephone service is to promote advocacy, independence, and recovery for Ohioans with behavioral health issues. Call 877-275-6364, 888-636-4889 (TTY), or 614-466-7228 (local), or visit . I am worried I can’t get my medications for medication assisted treatment (MAT). How can I get suboxone from an Ohio facility? Medications for MAT are available at many facilities across Ohio. If your regular facility closes or is closed, then please call our helpline for a referral to another opiate use disorder treatment provider. If someone is looking for a treatment provider, they can call the Ohio Mental Health and Addiction Services Consumer and Family Toll-Free Bridge (TFB) line Monday – Friday from 8:30AM to 5:00PM, or they can search on-line at .The TFB line provides referral and resource information for callers regarding addiction and mental-health services statewide. TFB staff members help callers find the resources they need, learn about the referral process to access resources and understand consumer rights and responsibilities. The goal of the free telephone service is to promote advocacy, independence, and recovery for Ohioans with behavioral health issues. Call 877-275-6364, 888-636-4889 (TTY), or 614-466-7228 (local), or visit . Liquor Carryout, Excess, LicensingI heard that there were restrictions on in-person sale of liquor in some counties. Is this true?The original order signed April 13, 2020, restricting sales of liquor in certain instances in certain counties has been rescinded. There are no longer any COVID-19-specific orders relating to liquor sales at retail facilities. What can we do with excess liquor? Is there help to restock it?Jobs Ohio and Ohio Commerce will offer a one-time rebate to bars and restaurants to defray the cost of restocking high-proof spirituous liquor. For more information visit: Wholesale.How will the ordered safety guidelines (liquor) be enforced after they reopen?On May 18, 2020, Governor DeWine announced the state is marshaling all the resources at our disposal to assemble a large contingent of law enforcement and health officials from across state agencies and from our local communities.We will coordinate with them as part of the Department of Public Safety’s Ohio Investigative Unit. They will surge in to conduct safety compliance checks in crowded bars and restaurants.They will issue administrative citations that could result in the revocation of liquor licenses. Further, we will work with municipal prosecutors to take potential criminal actions against these bad actors.Can we get alcohol for carryout?The Ohio Liquor Control Commission passed an emergency rule to allow establishments with an existing on-premises liquor permit to sell and deliver alcohol, including high-proof liquor in limited quantity, for off-premises consumption.Under the rule, patrons can purchase two, prepackaged drinks per meal. All drinks must be closed and remain closed during transport as per open container law.Can we still get alcohol for carryout now that restaurants are opening back up?The Ohio Liquor Control Commission passed an emergency rule on April 7, 2020, that allows for off-premises consumption. The rule went into effect for 120 days, unless rescinded earlier by the Liquor Control Commission, and is set to expire on August 4.Local and Public Pools and Aquatic CentersSee: When can pools reopen?On May 14, 2020, Lt. Governor Husted announced pools can reopen on May 26 if they are regulated by local health departments. This guidance is NOT for water parks or amusement parks. These will be addressed soon.There is no evidence that the virus that causes COVID-19 can be spread to people through the water in pools, hot tubs, spas, or water play areas. Proper operation/maintenance (disinfection w/ chlorine/bromine) of these facilities should inactivate the virus in water. Safety protocols will be posted soon at coronavirus.Manufacturing, Distribution & ConstructionSee: What specifically do we need to do to reopen as a manufacturing/distribution/construction company?With the new Stay Safe at Home order here in Ohio, which takes effect May 1, 2020, all manufacturing, distribution and construction businesses that were previously ordered to close may reopen effective 12:01 am on May 4, 2020. Those that reopen will be required to follow the operating guidelines for preventing COVID-19 spread.Here is what is required:Ensure minimum 6 ft between people, if not possible, install barriers Personnel should work from home if possible Employees must perform daily symptom assessmentRequire employees to stay home if symptomatic Employees and employers are required to wear facemasks at all times while at work. Require regular handwashing Reduce sharing of work materials Limit travel as much as possible Stagger arrival of all employees and guests Stagger lunch and break timesChange shift patterns (e.g. fewer shifts)Daily disinfection of desks and workstations and all high-contact surfacesSpace factory floor to allow for distancing Regulate max number of people in cafeterias/common spacesEstablish maximum capacity (e.g. 50% of fire code)For best practice, we recommend:Face coverings should be worn at all times by clients and customers. It Is not mandatory for customers, but is mandatory for employees.Provide stipend to employees for private transportationSplit into sub-teams, limit contact across sub-teamsReduce pace to allow less FTEs per lineClose cafeteria and gathering spaces if possible, or conduct regular cleaningsDaily deep disinfection of entire facilityIndustry-specific required criteria can be found at coronavirus.ResponsibleRestartOhioOffice EnvironmentsWhat specifically do we need to do to reopen as a general office environment?With the new Stay Safe at Home order here in Ohio, which takes effect May 1, 2020, all general office environments/businesses that were previously ordered to close may reopen effective 12:01 am on May 4, 2020. Those that reopen will be required to follow the operating guidelines for preventing COVID-19 spread. Employers should strongly encourage as many employees as possible to work from home by implementing policies in areas such as teleworking and video conferencing, subject to discretion of the employer.Here is what is required:Ensure minimum 6 ft between people, if not possible, install barriers Personnel should work from home when possible Employees and employers are required to wear facemasks at all times while at work. Employees must perform daily symptom assessment Require employees to stay home if symptomatic Require regular handwashing Reduce sharing of work materials Limit travel as much as possible Stagger arrival of all employees and guests Post signage on health safety guidelines in common areasFrequent disinfection of desks, workstations, and high-contact surfaces Daily disinfection of common areas Cancel/postpone in person events when social distancing guidelines cannot be met No buffet in cafeteria Utilize disposable tableware and other materials Establish maximum capacity (e.g. 50% of fire code)For best practice, we recommend:Face coverings should be worn at all times by clients and customers. It Is not mandatory for customers but is mandatory for employees.Redesign/space workstations for 6 ft or more of distance Close cafeteria and gathering spaces if possible, or conduct regular cleanings Limit congregation in office spaces Divide essential staff into groups and establishing rotating shift Availability of at least 3 weeks of cleaning suppliesEnsure seating distance of 6 ft or more Enable natural workplace ventilation Health questionnaire for symptoms at entry for all workers or clientsTemperature taking protocolIndustry-specific required criteria can be found at coronavirus.ResponsibleRestartOhioNursing HomesSee: What has the Governor recommended for nursing homes?The Governor has asked nursing homes to restrict access to only those personnel who are necessary to the operation of the facility, except as permitted in limited circumstances to protect the at-risk populations residing there. Each essential individual, employee or vendor will be screened for signs of illness and must submit to a temperature reading to gain entrance. All facilities will be required to keep a log of all who are admitted access, and all visitors must provide their name, ID, phone numbers, and addresses. The Director of ODH and Governor released an executive order preventing all visitors at long-term care facilities to help limit their exposure to illnesses. Exceptions can be made for end-of-life cases.The order also recommends limiting points of entry to only one entrance for each facility. This does not apply to emergencies. Residents will be able to discharge from homes at any time but will be subject to the ordered assessments and directives.Nursing homes are still able to take in patients who have tested positive for COVID-19, but they are encouraged to follow isolation protocols and guidance from the CDC to prevent the spread of infection in the process.On April 13 Gov. DeWine issued an order to compel nursing home and long-term care facilities to notify families and caregivers of all residents when an employee or resident tests positive for COVID-19. This notification must be completed within 24 hours. ?Additionally, the state will begin releasing the names and addresses of all long-term care facilities and nursing homes that have a minimum of one resident or employee case of COVID-19. This list of nursing homes will be posted on coronavirus. on April 22. This information will be updated every Wednesday at 2 p.m.SOURCE: Can we visit loved ones in the hospital or long-term care facilities? What about nursing homes?On September 24, 2020, Governor DeWine, Ohio Department of Aging Director Ursel McElroy, and Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities Director Jeff Davis announced that indoor visitation would now begin for some long-term care facilities as well as assisted living facilities and intermediate care facilities for individuals with developmental disabilities. There is a dashboard at coronavirus. where you can see the types of visitation that facilities across Ohio allow. You can look up your county or an individual facility to learn what types of visits are allowed and when they are permitted.Visitation for nursing homes and assisted living facilities and intermediate care facilities for individuals with developmental disabilities have begun. Each location will have their own regulations and contact information for questions, which can be found in a new dashboard posted at coronavirus.. The Ohio Department of Health has not made any orders regarding hospital visitation. These policies are independently determined by the healthcare facility, and questions regarding their policies should be directed to the facility itself.SOURCE: and Have there been cases at Ohio’s Veterans Nursing Homes?Yes, there have been positive cases reported. For an accurate report of where cases have been reported in Ohio visit coronavirus.COVID-19 Health Care Isolation Centers (HCICs)What is required for an HCIC? (Response is FOR HEALTHCARE FACILITY ADMINISTRATORS ONLY)A survey may be required, but it depends on a facility’s HCIC application. The Ohio Department of Health will make that determination once your HCIC application is received. Please reach out directly to the technical assistance coordinator in your regional hospital zone if you have a question or are interested in becoming an HCIC. The technical assistance coordinators by hospital zone are: Zone 1: Eric Beck, DO, MPH, Eric.Beck@ Alice Kim, MD, KIMA@ Sean Cannone, DO, Sean.Cannone@ Zone 2: James Lawlor, DO, James.lawlor@osumc.eduZone 3: Richard Shonk, PhD, RShonk@ SOURCE: I’m interested in pursuing HCIC status for my facility. Are all COVID-19 Health Care Isolation Centers (HCICs) and their requirements the same?There are three types of HCICs:? HCIC-Q: Quarantine level of care only? HCIC-I: COVID-19 level of care 1-3? HCIC-IQ: Both quarantine and COVID-19 levels of care in two distinct units, includingstaff and PPE supplies.SOURCE: How do I know if a facility is an HCIC? Where can I find a list of HCICs in Ohio?A complete list of healthcare isolation centers can be found on the Ohio Department of Medicaid website found at: Do I have to submit a letter from the regional hospital zone if my facility is surging over capacity, or surging into a non-certified space?No. For in-facility cohorting, which includes surging beyond certified capacity or noncertified space, this type of application does not require a letter from your zone assistance coordinator. The application can be submitted to the Ohio Department of Health (liccert@odh. and james.hodge@odh.) for processing. Please note from the HCIC plan, however, that this type does not include any increased reimbursement from the Ohio Department of Medicaid.SOURCE: Testing for Skilled Nursing Facilities Ohio National GuardI work in a long-term care facility. What do we need to do for the new testing/when will it start?Facilities should contact CCURT for question regarding testing CCURT@odh..All staff in all Ohio nursing facilities will be tested. This will help nursing home administrators understand the status of the virus in their facilities and help keep it from infecting their community. Resident testing will be based on a clinically driven strategy that targets those who have likely been exposed to COVID-19.In-House COVID-19 Testing for Skilled Nursing Facilities (Information from CMS)Who will receive the testing platforms and U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)- authorized antigen diagnostic tests? Nursing homes will receive either a Quidel Sofia 2 Instrument, Becton, Dickinson and Company (BD) Veritor? Plus System or the Abbott BinaxNOW tests over the coming months along with the associated FDA-authorized antigen diagnostic tests. To be eligible, nursing homes must have a current CLIA Certificate of Waiver AND meet certain epidemiological criteria. The list of nursing homes is posted on the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) COVID-19 NHSN data page and will be updated as new shipments go out. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) will distribute the testing platforms and FDA-authorized antigen diagnostic tests to all nursing homes with a CLIA Certificate of Waiver over the next few months. Nursing homes mean facilities that are certified as a Medicare Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) and/or Medicaid Nursing Facility (NF), otherwise referred to a Long-Term Care Facility or nursing home. SOURCE: is distribution of the testing platforms and FDA-authorized antigen diagnostic tests being determined? Will these devices be sent directly to the nursing homes or to states for distribution? Distribution of instruments and tests are prioritized for facilities based on Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) epidemiological hotspot data and facilities whose data indicate an elevated risk for COVID-19 transmission. Devices will be sent directly to nursing homes to ensure that nursing homes can begin testing as soon as they receive the devices and complete the requisite training. Shipping schedules are based on the availability of instruments and test kits. Facilities that have been prioritized to receive early shipments (within the first 3 weeks) are in CDC epidemiological hotspot counties. Most shipments will occur in the first 4 weeks, although it may take up to 14 weeks for all nursing homes to receive their shipment due to supply availability. SOURCE: will the testing platforms and authorized point-of-care tests be distributed? Instruments and authorized diagnostic antigen tests will begin shipping the week of July 20 and shipments will continue over the course of 14 weeks. Supplies will arrive in a single shipment directly from the manufacturer and/or distributor. SOURCE: many COVID-19 test kits will nursing homes receive? Allotments of instruments and test kits are determined by the estimated volume of tests needed for the facility to test all staff and residents at least once and enable a pathway to conduct ongoing testing according to public health guidelines. This estimated volume is based on the average number of weekly staff, and the average resident census for each facility reported by CMS. All facilities will receive at least one instrument. A second instrument will be allocated to facilities that were identified to receive 900 tests (facilities identified as major outliers). Nursing homes were categorized into 5 groupings based on their estimated testing needs: Small facilities150 tests1 instrumentSmall-medium facilities240-250 tests* 1 instrumentMedium facilities325-330 tests* 1 instrumentLarge facilities600 tests1 instrumentMajor outlier facilities900+ tests2 instruments*Note: The range accounts for variations in kit size between BD and Quidel. Tests for the BD Veritor? Plus come in kits of 30 and those for the Quidel Sofia 2 in kits of 25. SOURCE: will provide training to nursing home staff? In what format will the training be provided in? Quidel and BD will provide training materials to nursing home staff. Training documentation will be made widely available for all nursing homes that are receiving supplies. Quidel training information can be found at . BD is offering training services through their Learning Management System (LMS) platform to all BD Veritor System customers at no additional cost. The eLearning training platform is available online. SOURCE: were nursing homes prioritized to receive a testing platform and FDA-authorized antigen diagnostic tests? The prioritization is based on CDC epidemiological hotspot data, as well as nursing homes that reported the following information to the CDC by July 5th: Current CLIA Certificate of Waiver; Three or more confirmed or suspected new cases of COVID-19 in the last 7 days; At least one new COVID-19 case in the last 7 days after having zero previous COVID-19 cases; Inadequate access to testing in the last 7 days; At least one new resident death due to COVID-19 in the last 7 days; At least one new confirmed or suspected COVID-19 case among staff in the last 7 days. SOURCE: HHS be providing more tests after the initial shipment? No. After the initial shipment of instruments and tests, nursing homes will be responsible for procuring their own tests directly from the manufacturer or medical device distributor. SOURCE: safety precautions are required when performing these tests? CDC Interim Laboratory Biosafety Guidelines for Handling and Processing Specimens Associated with Coronavirus Disease 2019 are outlined below. States may have more stringent requirements, so you may need to consult with your State Agency (SA Contacts) for further guidance. For providers collecting specimens or within 6 feet of patients suspected to be infected with SARS-CoV-2, maintain proper infection control and use recommended personal protective equipment (PPE), which includes an N95 or higher-level respirator (or facemask if a respirator is not available), eye protection, gloves, and a gown, when collecting specimens. Use the instrument in a location associated with a current CLIA certificate. Perform a site-specific and activity-specific risk assessment to identify and mitigate safety risks. Train staff on the proper use of the instrument and ways to minimize the risk of exposures. Follow manufacturer recommended procedures for decontamination after use. Follow Standard Precautions when handling clinical specimens, including hand hygiene and the use of PPE, such as laboratory coats or gowns, gloves, and eye protection. If needed, additional precautions can be used, such as a surgical mask or face shield, or other physical barriers, such as a splash shield to work behind. When using patient swabs, minimize contamination of the swab stick and wrapper by widely opening the wrapper prior to placing the swab back into the wrapper. Change gloves after adding patient specimens to the instrument. Decontaminate the instrument after each run by using an EPA-approved disinfectant for SARS-CoV-2. Following the manufacturer’s recommendations for use, such as dilution, contact time, and safe handling. SOURCE: every nursing home receive a point-of-care instrument and associated tests? CMS has prioritized > 3,900 nursing homes to receive instruments and tests in the coming weeks. Once those shipments are complete, HHS will continue a phased distribution of 4/8 | Page antigen testing supplies to nursing homes with a current CLIA Certificate of Waiver and based on updated epidemiological data. 10. Which nursing homes will receive instruments and tests in the first wave of shipments? The list of nursing homes receiving instruments and tests in the first wave is available on the CMS COVID-19 NHSN data page. This list will be updated as the phased distribution progresses. SOURCE: will my nursing home receive the shipment of testing platforms and FDA authorized antigen diagnostic tests? Instruments and tests will be shipped on a weekly basis directly to CMS-prioritized nursing homes. Instruments and tests will begin shipping the week of July 20 and shipments will continue over the course of 14 weeks. Each nursing home will receive one shipment that includes supplies to facilitate baseline testing among nursing home residents and staff and enable a pathway to conduct ongoing testing according to public health guidelines. 12. How will states be made aware that nursing homes within their states will receive instruments and supplies? Facilities will be made aware of shipments directly from the manufacturers. States can refer to the CMS COVID-19 NHSN data page to see which nursing homes in your state is receiving supplies. SOURCE: are antigen tests? Is it required to retest negative results with a PCR test? Antigen diagnostic tests quickly detect fragments of proteins found on or within the virus by testing samples collected from the nasal cavity using swabs. Negative results should generally be treated as presumptive, do not rule out SARS-CoV-2 infection and should not be used as the sole basis for treatment or patient management decisions, including infection control decisions. If necessary, confirmation with a molecular assay for patient management may be performed. Negative results should be considered in the context of a patient’s recent exposures, history and the presence of clinical signs and symptoms consistent with COVID-19 and should not be used as the sole basis for treatment or patient management decisions, including infection control decisions. SOURCE: many tests can be conducted with the Quidel Sofia 2 Instrument and the BD Veritor? Plus System testing platforms? Each test takes about 20 minutes to perform from start to finish. However, it is possible to run tests in an assembly line fashion to test 20 – 30 samples per hour. To use this strategy, the start time for each test is staggered by a few minutes. Next, at the end of the test incubation period, each test is read one by one every few minutes. Instructions for using batch mode are included with the Instructions for Use and vendor training. 5/8 | Page 15. Why is the federal government sending antigen testing supplies to nursing homes if they cannot be used to rule out SARS-CoV-2 infection and should not be used as the sole basis for treatment? Fighting this global pandemic requires an array of different technologies, including antigen testing. In areas of high prevalence or for patients with known risk factors, positive results from an antigen test can be considered confirmatory and used for diagnostic purposes. In areas of high prevalence, confirming negative results using an alternate form of testing is recommended. In low-prevalence areas where the patient is asymptomatic, results should be considered in the context of a patient’s recent exposures, history and the presence of clinical signs and symptoms consistent with COVID-19, and confirmed with a molecular assay, if necessary, for patient management. 16. Are nursing homes required to report results of any COVID-19 tests? Yes. All laboratories must have a CLIA Certificate and report the results of the COVID-19 tests that they conduct to the appropriate federal, state, or local public health agencies. Laboratories must report data for all testing completed, for each individual tested. This data must be reported within 24 hours of test completion, daily, to the appropriate state or local public health department, based on the individual’s residence. Testing sites must report all diagnostic test data in accordance with the HHS Lab Data Reporting Guidance for COVID-19 issued June 4, 2020 and meet these reporting requirements by August 1, including providing your facility name and CLIA number when reporting results. Please visit the CDC website for more information about data reporting requirements. SOURCE: nursing homes keep the testing platforms? Yes. Upon receipt, the instrument(s) become the property of the nursing home and can be used in accordance with the conditions of authorization for the test. SOURCE: should facilities handle indeterminate results? Quidel Sofia 2: If the test does not flow correctly, Sofia or Sofia 2 will indicate that the result is invalid. Should this occur, review the procedure and repeat the test with a new patient sample and a new Test Cassette. BD Veritor: The test results could be ‘positive’, ‘negative’, or ‘invalid’. If the test is invalid, the BD Veritor System Instrument will display “CONTROL INVALID” and the test (or control) must then be repeated. Do not report results. Repeat the test. SOURCE: facilities need a provider order to conduct the test? These are prescription use tests under the Emergency Use Authorization and must be ordered by a healthcare professional licensed under the applicable state law or a pharmacist under HHS guidance. SOURCE: should the materials be stored when they arrive? For BD, kits may be stored at 2 to 30°C. Reagents and instruments must be at room temperature (15 to 30 °C) when used for testing. DO NOT FREEZE. For Quidel, kits may be stored at room temperature, 59°F to 86°F (15°C to 30°C), out of direct sunlight. Kit contents are stable until the expiration date printed on the outer box. DO NOT FREEZE. 21. Does a Skilled Nursing Facility/ Nursing Facilities need a CLIA (Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments of 1988) Certificate of Waiver in order to perform testing of specimens for COVID-19? A Skilled Nursing Facility/ Nursing Facility needs a CLIA certificate, which can be a Certificate of Waiver, Certificate of Compliance or Certificate of Accreditation, to perform COVID-19 testing of specimens authorized by the FDA to be used in Point of Care settings (i.e., in patient care settings operating under a CLIA Certificate of Waiver) or Waived settings. Under CLIA, facilities are prohibited from testing human specimens for the purpose of diagnosis, prevention, treatment, or health assessment without a valid CLIA certificate. To become CLIA-certified, facilities must comply with the accuracy, quality, and reliability requirements as provided by the statute (CLIA Statute). The purpose of these requirements is to ensure that the test results that patients or their health care providers receive are accurate and reliable. Laboratories that wish to become CLIA certified must apply for a CLIA certificate. If you would like to apply for a CLIA Certificate of Waiver, please refer to the brochure, How to Apply for CLIA Certificate of Waiver and submit your application form (CMS Form 116) to the state (CLIA State Agency Contacts) where the laboratory is located. If you would like to apply for a CLIA certificate that will allow you to perform more complex tests, please refer to the brochure, how to obtain a CLIA Certificate. SOURCE: do I interpret the results of my antigen testing?For long-term care facilities, including nursing homes, follow the algorithm at: For general guidance, follow the algorithm at: understand that HHS will be distributing tests and test systems to Skilled Nursing Facilities/ Nursing Facilities. What type of CLIA certificate would my facility need in order to perform this testing? HHS will be distributing tests that are authorized for use at the Point of Care (POC) or inpatient care settings operating under a CLIA Certificate of Waiver. Your facility would be required to have a CLIA Certificate of Waiver. SOURCE: do I apply for a CLIA Certificate of Waiver so that my Skilled Nursing Facility/ Nursing Facility can perform COVID-19 testing? While the CLIA program is a Federal program, it contracts with State Agencies (CLIA State Agency Contacts) to carry out certain oversight and recording functions of the CLIA program. The State Agency in the state where the laboratory (meaning, any facility that is CLIA-certified such as a nursing home that performs point of care or waived testing) is located can answer your questions and will process your application. You may need to consult with your State Agency (CLIA State Agency Contacts) for further guidance regarding any state requirements. If you would like to apply for a CLIA Certificate of Waiver, please refer to the brochure, How to Apply for CLIA Certificate of Waiver and submit your application form (CMS Form 116) to the CLIA State Agency (CLIA State Agency Contacts) where the laboratory is located. The cost of a Certificate of Waiver is $180.00, and the facility will be CLIA certified for a period of 2 years. We want to ensure that facilities located in the United States applying for a CLIA certificate can begin testing for COVID-19 as quickly as possible (in most cases, 48–72 hours). Once the laboratory has identified a qualified laboratory director and has provided all required information on the CMS-116 application, a CLIA number will be assigned. Once the CLIA number has been assigned, the laboratory can begin testing if applicable CLIA requirements have been met. Laboratories that perform waived testing must follow manufacturer’s instructions. SOURCE: my Skilled Nursing Facility/ Nursing Facility already holds a CLIA Certificate of Waiver, can we begin performing COVID-19 testing? Yes. If your facility already holds a CLIA Certificate of Waiver it can begin performing COVID-19 testing that has been authorized by the FDA for use in Point of Care settings (i.e., in patient care settings operating under a CLIA Certificate of Waiver) or Certificate of Waiver settings. You may need to consult with your State Agency (CLIA State Agency Contacts) for further guidance regarding any state requirements. 25. If my Skilled Nursing Facility/ Nursing Facility already holds a CLIA Certificate of Waiver, am I required to update my test menu with CMS? Facilities holding a CLIA Certificate of Waiver are generally not required to update their test menus with CMS. However, States may have more stringent requirements so you may need to consult with your State Agency (CLIA State Agency Contacts) for further guidance. 26. How does my Skilled Nursing Facility/ Nursing Facility obtain the instrument, test kits and disposables? HHS will be distributing testing instruments and all the disposables for performing the test. The CMS CLIA program regulates facilities that perform testing on patient specimens to ensure accurate, reliable and timely results. Questions related to obtaining the instruments, test kits and all of the disposables for performing the test, payment issues for SNF/NF testing, or any other SNF/NF questions are outside the scope of the CLIA program and should be referred to the following mailbox: DNH_TriageTeam@cms.Public AssistanceI think my stimulus check from the CARES Act did not include my child, how do I fix it?If you get Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you will get your $1,200 economic impact payment from the IRS automatically -- you don’t have to do anything.But if you get SSI, have not filed a tax return, and you have an eligible child, you must act now to get $500 per child in addition to your $1,200 payment.By May 5, go to the IRS’ Non-Filer web form at to give information about your children.If you miss the May 5 deadline, please go to for further information. And, for information on how Social Security continues to serve the public during this critical time, go to coronavirusHow do we get the Pandemic EBT benefits from jobs and family services?Ohio’s Pandemic EBT plan was approved by the USDA. The Pandemic EBT program was included in the Families First Coronavirus Response Act of 2020.This approval will allow JFS to distribute SNAP benefits to 850,000 students across Ohio. These are children who relied on free or reduced-price meal programs when school was in session to have access to a hot, nutritious meal.The benefits will be mailed directly to students, and families don’t need to apply to be eligible. Families will receive around $300 to purchase healthy and nutritious foods to feed their children.If you have additional questions, please reach out to the Ohio Department of Jobs and Family Services.What changes have happened with SNAP to help with food benefits?Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS) announced April 7, 2020, that those who did not already receive the maximum month allotment for their household size in March will be issued an additional payment beginning this week.All SNAP-eligible households will soon be able to pick up a pre-packaged box of food at their local foodbank. Ohio obtained federal approval to waive administrative verifications normally required at food banks, to streamline the process and limit person-to-person contact.Find out more by calling your local food bank or ODJFS. ODJFS contact information: More information on income: I get SNAP benefits. How can I use the drive-up option for groceries?Those receiving SNAP benefits can shop online and go to their grocery stores to pick up their items in the cars. SNAP recipients will be able to swipe their EBT cards from their cars now without entering the store.You will shop through the store’s normal online shopping website, and then just pay with your EBT cards when you checkout there in person.For those stores that do not have a mobile point of sale device, a SNAP recipient can continue to order online, then pick up the groceries/pay inside the grocery store. This option reduces the time SNAP recipients are in the grocery store and reduces the risk of community spread.What is the COVID-19 number applicants can put on their unemployment application to expedite the process?2000180. This number prevents you from needing to verify your employer. If I already applied for unemployment but didn’t know about that code, should I go back and add the number in?No, your application will be processed at the same rate as the other COVID-19 ones. The code was added for further applications to help the process. What is the job website Lt. Gov. Husted mentioned? How do I post or search for a job?You can visit Coronavirus.JobSearch to post a job or to look for a job. Then just select if you want to post a job for an essential business or if you are searching for one. What has this bill changed for Medicaid?During this time, the Medicaid Director will:Classify certain Medicaid providers as COVID-19 community providersRequest the Director of Budget and Management to designate additional funds related to the COVID-19 outbreak for Medicaid payments to COVID-19 community providersMake payments to COVID-19 community providersFacilitate payments to COVID-19 community providers by transferring funds to the Departments of Developmental Disabilities and Mental Health and Addiction Services via intrastate transfer vouchers.What else is Medicaid doing for members during this time?Medicaid has eased several pharmacy benefit restrictions. Prior authorizations will be by-passed for new prescriptions. Members will receive pharmacy benefits regardless of in-network or out-of-network provider status.The threshold for refills on certain prescriptions will be relaxed. Pharmacists who dispense emergency refills without a prescription will be reimbursed. Pharmacies that dispense over-the-counter medications without a prescription will be reimbursed.Member co-pays will be waived. This is for all prescriptions.90-day supplies on maintenance medications will be authorized.The managed care plans have already lifted prior authorizations for all but a few services. This took effect on 3-27. Physicians and other providers, without prior authorization by a managed care plan, are using clinical judgment to determine if something is a medical necessity.Also, on April 14, 2020 Governor DeWine announced he submitted a waiver application, known as 1135 or Appendix K, to the federal government, which will allow needed flexibility in Medicaid services during the COVID-19 pandemic. This waiver will:Bolster telehealth and other technology to be used to do health assessments and care planning.Waive signature requirement for a variety of providers to ensure safe distancing without compromising access to care.Ease obstacles to access nursing home care.Allow services to be provided at alternative locations.Remove staffing level requirements to give providers more flexibilityOnce the federal government approves this waiver, it will be retroactively applied from March 1, 2020.For further questions, reach out to the Ohio Department of Medicaid. Religious ServicesSee: What are the best practices for churches and houses of worship during the COVID-19 pandemic? There are recommendations for places of worship available online at coronavirus.. As places of worship were never closed, these are recommendations for best practices and not requirements. What has the Governor recommended for religious institutions?The Governor recommends that religious institutions consider limiting practices that could cause the spread of germs. If you are considered high-risk, please think about staying home. Residential CampsSee: : What will change as bars and restaurants reopen?There have been multiple changes announced to make the reopening as safe as possible. These changes include:Patrons may be asked to wait in their car while they wait for an open table. Parties will be limited to ten people or less and eating areas will be six feet apart from other groups to help maintain social distancing guidelines. If tables cannot be six feet apart, there will be physical barriers (like high booth backs) between groups.Patrons/customers are asked to self-monitor for symptoms, and to stay home if they have any COVID-19 symptoms.Buffet and salad/soup bar areas will be served to customers, rather than be self-serve.Workers, servers, and bartenders will also follow the mask requirement for employees in the workplace. Gloves will be used to comply with normal food service guidelines.Open congregate areas (dance floor, activity space, etc.) will remain closed, but the establishment can re-purpose those spaces with tables.It will be at the discretion of the restaurant for if they decide to ask patrons to wear facial coverings or not. More information about seating layouts, precautions, floor plans, and barriers can be found on coronavirus. under the Dine Safe Ohio Order and FAQsCan a restaurant or bar offer live music?Musicians and bands may perform in restaurants and bars if the individuals who are performing maintain social distancing of at least 6 feet from all other people including, but not limited to, fellow performers and restaurant and bar patrons and staff. Disc jockeys are permitted if they practice social distancing.Is dancing now allowed (i.e, weddings, proms, bars, etc.)? Do people have to wear masks on the dance floor?Yes, dancing is allowed. The mask mandate is still in effect, and therefore, yes, masks would be required on the dance floor. Further guidance to best help those planning such events is being developed.??The recently amended September 23 Dine Safe Ohio order states: “The open congregated areas in restaurants, bars, banquet and catering facilities (billiards, card playing, pinball games, video games, arcade games,?dancing, entertainment) are permitted to open but businesses must follow all social distancing guidelines as well as sanitation guidelines as provided in this and other orders.” Specific guidelines can be found on coronavirus. Is other entertainment now allowed in open areas of bars and restaurants? The recently amended September 23 Dine Safe Ohio order states: “The open congregated areas in restaurants, bars, banquet and catering facilities (billiards, card playing, pinball games, video games, arcade games,?dancing, entertainment) are permitted to open but businesses must follow all social distancing guidelines as well as sanitation guidelines as provided in this and other orders.” Specific guidelines can be found on coronavirus.Are tabletop lottery and Keno games allowed in restaurants and bars?Restaurants and bars should follow the guidance of local health department officials on this.Can a food facility offer free samples?Yes, but only when the free samples are directly handed to the customer by an employee of the food facility. For example, samples of ice cream may be handed to a customer at an ice cream counter prior to a purchase being made. Food self-service stations, including those that allow customers to help themselves to free product samples, must be discontinued.Can a food facility offer self-service food, drinks, or condiments?No. Self-service food, drink, and condiment stations are prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to:Self-service condiment stationsBulk donut casesRoller grill stationsHot and cold beverage stationsSoft serve ice cream and yogurt machinesBulk food dispensersSelf-service stations that allow customers to help themselves to free product samples. This applies in any setting including restaurants, bars, gas stations, convenience stores, and grocery stores.The order requires table and common area items such as table tents, vases, lemons, straws, and stir sticks be removed. Condiments and condiment bottles should be removed from tables and provided in single packets, cups etc. It is recommended that condiment packets that are served to a customer and not consumed be discarded.Pre-packaged foods and drinks may still be offered for retail sale.Does this apply to university dining halls?At this time, university dining halls should also only provide carryout or delivery service, and close dine-in options too. Does this apply to cafeterias at medical facilities?This order does not apply to food service in healthcare facilities.Does this order apply to services in VFWs?Gathering of more than 10 individuals in indoor and outdoor spaces are now prohibited. The Order prohibiting the consumption of food and beverages in bars and restaurants is a further refinement of the mass gathering order. On March 15, 2020 at 9:00 pm all bars and restaurants were ordered closed until further notice, except for carryout and delivery. Does this apply to food and bar services at weddings or funerals?This order does not apply to catering at weddings or funerals. On March 17, the Governor made additional recommendations for weddings and funerals. For weddings, we ask you to figure out a way to celebrate your wedding but postpone the large gathering. For funerals, we suggest holding a small, private memorial, but do the large service later. These are requests, but not orders. Wedding receptions, funeral repasts, proms, and other events, whether or not food is served, at banquet facilities shall comply with the Director’s Order for Facial Coverings throughout the State of Ohio, signed July 23, 2020, the Director’s Third Amended Order that Reopens Restaurants, Bars, Banquet and Catering Facilities and Services to Dine-in Service, with Exceptions, signed September 23, 2020 and the Addendum to Director’s Third Amended Order that Reopens Restaurants, Bars, Banquet and Catering Facilities and Services to Dine-in Service, with Exceptions, signed February 11, 2021. Events at banquet centers no longer have a 300-person limitation, so long as they comply with the Orders identified in this section.Facial coverings order: Orders reopening banquet and catering facilities: and How will we help small businesses and wait staff who are hurt by this order? You can support these businesses by still ordering carryout and delivery from these locations. Continue to use these services, while practicing social distancing. To assist Ohio workers directly impacted by the COVID-19 health emergency, Governor DeWine announced he will issue an executive order that makes several changes to Ohio’s unemployment law and state agency policy.The order will broaden current state policy to clarify that individuals that are quarantined by a health professional or by their employer are unemployed and will not be subject to requirements to actively seek work during the period of emergency. This also applies to companies that determine it is necessary to temporarily shut down operations due to the current emergency.Ohio currently has a one week waiting period before an individual can receive unemployment. In order to expedite the payments to impacted Ohioans, they are waiving the waiting week so that workers eligible for unemployment benefits will receive them for the first week of unemployment. For future taxes, the costs of these additional benefits will be mutualized.More questions can be pointed to 1-877-644-6562. ODJFS will also waive employer penalties for late reporting and payments for the next quarter to assist employers impacted by lack of staff availability. The Governor’s Office is also working with the federal government to allow small businesses and non-profits to apply for low-interest loans to pay for certain expenses incurred by COVID-19.To ensure the process of qualifying the state is done as quickly as possible, we are asking any small business owner who has been impacted by this public health crisis to send their contact information to BusinessHelp@Development. . Once received, Development Director Lydia Mihalik and her team will work quickly to follow-up and gather the needed information.Additional information on the SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan program is available at disaster or by contacting the SBA disaster assistance customer service center by calling 1-800-659-2955 (TTY: 1-800-877-8339).SchoolsColleges, Schools with Traveling Students and Boarding SchoolsWhat has the Governor recommended for colleges and universities?The Governor has recommended colleges and universities:Screen students returning from international travel or cruise shipsEliminate international travel for students and staffCancel/postpone university-sponsored travel and large meetingsMove toward online/remote learningHow can college campuses protect students?Administrators of colleges and universities should take the following actions to plan and prepare for operations:Review and update your emergency operations plan. Focus on components that address infectious disease outbreaks.Campus re-population should occur in thoughtful and strategic phases.Campuses must comply with all relevant state and CDC guidelines. *Campuses must designate a point of contact for communication about COVID-19 procedures with relevant state and local departments and agencies.Require all campus employees to wear a facial covering, except for one of the following reasons: ? Facial coverings in the campus setting are prohibited by law or regulation;? Facial coverings are in violation of documented industry standards; ? Facial coverings are not advisable for health reasons; ? Facial coverings are in violation of the campus’ documented safety policies; ? Facial coverings are not required when working alone in an assigned work area;? Facial coverings are not required when the student is alone in a residential setting; ? There is a functional (practical) reason not to wear a facial covering on campus. (Campuses must provide written justification, upon request, explaining why a facial covering is not required on campus. At minimum, facial coverings (masks) should be cloth/fabric and cover an individual’s nose, mouth, and chin.)? If facial coverings are an impediment to academic content delivery, consider the use of clear facial shields or other physical barriers (such as plexiglass). ?Require all campus employees to conduct daily health assessments, which should include taking their temperature with a thermometer and monitoring for fever, coughing, or trouble breathing.Encourage students and staff to take everyday preventive actions to prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses.Stay home when sickCover coughs and sneezesClean and disinfect frequently touched surfacesWash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 secondsMinimum six-foot physical distancing must be preserved to the greatest extent feasible.Campuses must employ the most updated and evidence-based approaches to provide a safe environment for faculty, staff, and students. As appropriate, campuses must be prepared to utilize public health interventions, contact tracing and COVID-19 testing consistent with federal, state, and local public health guidelines.Monitor and plan for absenteeism.Review the usual absenteeism patterns at your school among both students and staff, so you can identify if the rate of absenteeism increases.Make accommodations (e.g., extended due dates, electronic submission of assignments) for students if they become sick.Plan for alternative coverage by cross-training staff and faculty.SOURCE: Are colleges testing students for COVID?On September 24, Governor DeWine announced he was recommending that all residential colleges and universities regularly test a sample population of their asymptomatic students. Some schools are already doing this. This will help evaluate the spread on their campuses. Our expectation is that each campus plan to screen at least 3% of their at-risk population.If you have questions about a specific college’s testing plans, please reach out to that school. What if my students traveled to a COVID-19 high incidence area?If students traveled to an area with high incidence, advise them to self-quarantine and seek medical care if they feel sick with fever, cough, or difficulty breathing. Before going to a healthcare provider, the student should call ahead and tell the healthcare provider about recent travel and symptoms. Screen all students returning from international travel.Review updated CDC information for travelers, including FAQ for travelers, and consult with state and local health officials.SOURCE: : can students, faculty and staff protect themselves?To help prevent infection with COVID-19, students, faculty, and staff should take the same steps they already take to prevent exposure to flu and the common cold. To prevent infection:Wash your hands for 20 seconds or more with soapy water. If unavailable, use hand sanitizer.Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.Avoid contact with people who are sick.Stay home while you are sick (except to visit a healthcare professional) and avoid close contact with others.Cover your mouth/nose with a tissue or sleeve when coughing or sneezing.Get adequate sleep and eat well-balanced meals to ensure healthy immune system.Stay 6 feet away from othersWear a mask.SOURCE: and K-12 SchoolsWhat has the Governor recommended for K-12 schools?See: Will outbreaks and cases be reported from schools? On September 3, 2020, Governor DeWine announced an order related to schools and reporting COVID-19 cases. The order goes into effect September 8, 2020. The order requires schools to establish a reporting mechanism for parents to report COVID-19 cases. Beginning September 8, parents or guardians and school staff should notify their school within 24 hours of receiving a positive test or a clinical diagnosis. Then within 24 hours after receiving the notification, the school should notify parents or guardians about that case in writing, providing as much information as possible without releasing protected health information. There will be templates available at coronavirus.. The school must also notify their local health department within 24 hours.Beginning September 15, local health departments will report the number of newly reported and cumulative cases to the ODH every Tuesday. There will be a template for this on the website as well. ODH will publish this data by school or school district, including a breakdown by students and staff, every Thursday. We do not intend for protected health information to be released in our effort to provide information to Ohioans so they can make the right decisions for their family.In addition, a school district or school will identify a COVID-19 coordinator to facilitate the reporting of case information and upon request, schools or buildings are required to provide the local health department a copy of their pandemic plan.The school outbreak data will be reported with all other COVID-19 data on the state coronavirus dashboard at coronavirus. under schools and children. What about school-mandated testing?Governor Mike DeWine has been in contact with legislative leaders and will be asking the General Assembly to pass legislation to forgo state testing for the 2019-2020 school year.Is there signage or other resources for schools?There are printable guidelines posters available on coronavirus. under Responsible Restart Ohio>Sector Specific Operating Requirements> SchoolsSOURCE: Also, to assist schools in their efforts to implement our 5 guidelines, the Ohio Department of Education has created “The Reset and Restart Education Planning Guide for Ohio Schools and Districts” to help schools with solutions to the many challenges they face. It is available on their website.SOURCE: Will there be any financial assistance for schools? To reopen school safely, there will be unforeseen expenses schools will face. Governor DeWine announced July 2 plans to work with the Ohio General Assembly to ensure federal CARES Act dollars are available to Ohio school districts to help with these costs.K-12 School and Collegiate Band, Choir, Dance Teams and Other Similar Performance ActivitiesWhat are the recommendations for school band, choir, dance teams etc.?See: How will kids get food while schools are closed if they rely on school for meals daily?The state is working to make sure meal services will be able to continue for kids who rely on their school system for these provisions. The US Department of Agriculture approved two of Ohio’s waiver requests to keep school breakfast and lunch programs going while schools are closed. During closure, schools will be able to provide every child under 18 with “grab and go” meals, ensuring that no child goes hungry while school is out. Some school districts also now have the unprecedented ability to deliver a healthy meal right to a student’s home. The Ohio Department of Education will be sharing additional information with schools shortly.K-12 BussesSome schools and bus companies are worried about safety hazards such as fogging etc. which could potentially distract the drivers while driving. Schools are asking, if bus drivers can remove their facial covering while driving the vehicle and facing forward? Bus drivers can remove their facial covering while driving the vehicle and facing forward if they put the mask on, while the vehicle comes to a complete stop, to allow the children get on and off the bus.Cloth face coverings or masks should not be worn if their use creates a new risk (i.e. interference with driving, vision, or contributes to heat-related illness) that exceeds their COVID-19 related benefits of slowing the spread of the virus.? Contact TracingIn a school can contact tracing/quarantine be avoided if a student uses a three-sided Plexiglass trifold every time, he/she is at their desk or in the lunchroom in addition to the mask that all students are required to wear.No, CDC and ODH recommendations for Community Related Exposures in Schools do not differentiate exposure of close contact by use of cloth-based covering or barriers, such as plexiglass. A reminder that masks if worn consistently and correctly will not prevent the spread 100% but should be layered with other prevention measures, such as, social distancing.SOURCE: LHD Call notes FAQ: 09/30/2020Should students be quarantined if exposed to a student with COVID-19?If a student or teacher is exposed in the classroom setting to someone with COVID-19, quarantine is not recommended for the exposed individual as long as masking and other appropriate protocols were followed. Close contacts who continue to attend in-person K-12 school should also follow normal protocols for quarantine when outside the K-12 classroom environment, including staying home and, if possible, staying away from people who are at higher risk severe illness from COVID-19. During this quarantine period, students may not participate in extracurricular activities outside of a classroom environment, such as sports practices or games.Schools should quarantine anyone exposed in the classroom if protocols have not been followed. Quarantine also is advised for anyone exposed during extracurricular activities, including sports, regardless of masking or other protocols. Are face shields an acceptable substitute for masks in schools?Schoolwide use of face shields does not meet requirement of Ohio’s K-12 masking order.The Ohio Department of Health is following federal guidance and prohibiting the schoolwide use of face shields as a substitute for facial coverings/masks. Such use of face shields does not comply with the Director’s Order Requiring the Use of Facial Coverings in Child Education Settings.The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends against using face shields as a substitute for facial coverings or masks.The use of masks or face coverings is intended to reduce the spray of respiratory droplets from the wearer into the environment, onto another person, or onto a surface. The mask or cloth face covering should cover the nose, mouth, and chin with little to no gap.According to the CDC, “At this time, it is not known what level of protection a face shield provides to people nearby from the spray of respiratory droplets from the wearer. There is currently not enough evidence to support the effectiveness of face shields for source control. Therefore, CDC does not currently recommend use of face shields as a substitute for masks.”Ohio’s K-12 masking order states that “all students, faculty, and staff in any child care setting, school building, or other location that provides care or education to any child in kindergarten through grade twelve in the State of Ohio shall wear facial coverings at all times.” There are exemptions, including, but not limited to, individuals with medical conditions, when eating or drinking, and when playing at recess. The full list of exemptions is available in the order.If an individual meets an exception to the K-12 face covering requirement, a face shield may be an option. According to the CDC, it is understood that some circumstances, such as the need for lip reading, require an alternative to masks. In those instances, a face shield should originate at the forehead with no gap, wrap around the sides of the face, and extend below the chin. When unable to use a mask, increased attention to other measures such as social distancing is imperative.SOURCE: Businesses, not otherwise addressedHow can I get my business on the support local website, or how can I support one on the website?Governor DeWine announced that Ohio has launched a website to encourage Ohioans to continue to support local retailers and restaurants by shopping online, choosing local, ordering carryout from restaurants, and taking virtual tours of well-known attractions around the state.There are currently more than 250 local restaurants, shops, and virtual activities being featured online. To find a local shop or restaurant to support, or to have your business featured, go to SupportLocalOhio.Where can businesses go to find resources and information to help during this time?Businesses and workers can now access all our resources at coronavirus.businesshelp This portal includes information on unemployment benefits, the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) Economic Injury Disaster Loan Program, the Liquor Buyback Program, modified rules for trucking to help ship critical supplies into the state, the delay of BWC Premiums, etc.On April 7, 2020, Lt. Governor Husted announced the creation of the Office of Small Business Relief to identify ways to provide support to Ohio's small businesses. This office will be housed within the Ohio Development Services Agency. You can find more information at coronavirus.businesshelp. If you still have questions, there is an email address and telephone number there that you can call for additional assistance.He also asked businesses to consider the reopening or their facilities when we can lift the stay at home order and closures. Please understand that this will not happen like flipping a switch. It will be gradual, so businesses should think about how they should prepare, and make sure you are implementing prevention measures still to prevent further spread of COVID-19 and other disease.Where can employers find out about the loans Lt. Gov. Husted mentioned in the press conference on April 3, 2020? (Loans included in the care act)You can call your bank to see if they are approved lenders. Banks now have guidance about the loans in the Payment Protection Program as part of the CARE Act. These loans are available for companies with fewer than 500 employees, and they may be eligible for forgivable loans for things like payroll, interest on a mortgage, rent, and utilities. Go to Coronavirus.business help for more details. What is the benefit for small businesses through Ohio banks mentioned in the April 21 press conference?On April 21, 2020, Governor DeWine announced the Jobs Ohio, Peoples Bank headquartered in Marietta, and the recently merged First Federal Bank and Home Savings Bank (headquartered in Defiance and Youngstown) are announcing a partnership to support those banks’ existing small business clients in Ohio.The support will help small businesses maintain operations and payroll during the pandemic. Jobs Ohio has committed up to $50 million to assist the banks. This assistance bolsters each bank’s ability to provide additional financing on favorable terms for local businesses in good standing that would otherwise not be able to access this credit due to the pandemic. The loans can be used for working capital, including payroll, rent, mortgages or other fixed debts, utilities and other bills.Contact the banks to find out more.How do we get the business dividend Governor DeWine announced April 8, 2020?So far, Governor DeWine has only asked the Bureau of Workers Compensation (BWC) to send up to $1.6 billion in dividends to Ohio employers this spring to ease the economic impact of COVID-19 on Ohio’s economy and business community. This still needs to be approved.This dividend equals approximately 100% of the premiums employers paid in policy year 2018. BWC will apply the dividend to an employer’s outstanding balances first, including the recent installment deferrals. Any amounts exceeding outstanding balances will be sent to the employer.If approved by BWC’s Board of Directors approximately $1.4 billion will go to private employers and approximately $200 million will go to local government taxing districts (counties, cities, schools, etc.).Employers will not have to do anything. If you have questions, please contact Ohio BWC.On April 21, 2020, Governor DeWine announced that the checks were approved, and the first round of checks were now being mailed to employers who can invest the money into the needs of their businesses. A total of more than 170,000 checks would be sent this week.Performing Arts TheatersSee: TravelBefore you travel, consider the following:Is COVID-19 spreading at your destination?The more cases at your destination, the more likely you are to get infected during travel and spread the virus to others when you return.Check each state’s cases in the last 7 daysCheck travel recommendations for destinations around the worldDo you live with someone who might be at increased risk for severe illness from COVID-19? If you get infected while traveling, you can spread the virus to loved ones when you return, even if you don’t have symptoms. Are you at increased risk for severe illness from COVID-19?Anyone can get very ill from the virus that causes COVID-19, but older adults and people of any age with certain underlying medical conditions are at increased risk for severe illness from COVID-19.Does your destination have requirements or restrictions for travelers?Some state, local, and territorial governments have requirements, such as requiring people to wear masks and requiring those who recently traveled to stay home for up to 14 days. Check state, territorial, tribal and local public health websites for information before you travel. If you are traveling internationally, check the destination’s Office of Foreign Affairs or Ministry of Health or the US Department of State, Bureau of Consular Affairs, Country Information page for details about entry requirements and restrictions for arriving travelers, such as mandatory testing or quarantine.I am planning to travel to country “X”. Should I postpone my travel?If you are planning to travel, check both the CDC’s website and the country you are planning to visit for traveler restrictions. CDC has three levels; warning, alert and watch. Warning Level 3 means: travelers should avoid all nonessential travel to the area. Some countries currently have restrictions that prohibit travelers from certain countries from entering.Alert Level 2 means: these destinations are experiencing sustained community transmission of respiratory illness caused by the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). The virus can spread from person to person. Older adults and those with chronic medical conditions should consider postponing nonessential travel. Watch Level 1 means: CDC does not recommend canceling or postponing travel. Travelers should practice usual precautions. (Check website for most up-to-date recommendations and relay to caller.)SOURCE: you are planning to visit or travel through European countries, we urge you to check the websites of the relevant U.S. embassies or consulates for information on restrictions, foreign quarantine policies, and urgent health information provided by relevant authorities. Some European countries currently prohibit entry by tourists and other non-essential travelers. We recommend that you visit the websites of those countries' embassies in the United States for additional information including entry/exit restrictions and permissible categories of travel. SOURCE: have a cruise coming up. Should we consider cancelling our trip due to COVID-19?Because of the unprecedented nature of the COVID-19 pandemic and the high risk of COVID-19 spread on cruise ships, the US government has issued a Conditional Sail Order for cruise ships in waters subject to US jurisdiction. The Conditional Sail Order is published in the Federal Register.The Conditional Sail Order is in effect until one of the following occurs:The Secretary of Health and Human Services declares that COVID-19 no longer constitutes a public health emergency, orThe CDC Director rescinds or modifies the order based on specific public health or other considerations, orNovember 1, 2021.SOURCES: Should I cancel my trip if we are going somewhere in the U.S., and not a country with a travel advisory?Older Ohioans and those with underlying health conditions, like heart disease or diabetes, have been found to be more at-risk for complications associated with COVID-19. These individuals should avoid situations that put them at increased risk of catching an infectious disease, including cruises or long plane trips. Person-to-person spread of COVID-19 is occurring and countries are reporting both travel-related cases and community spread of the disease. As the outbreak of COVID-19 continues, there remains a risk of infected travelers and crew. Ohioans should weigh the risks for travel.SOURCE: I am returning from a trip in another state. Should I quarantine automatically?Those entering Ohio after travel to states reporting positive testing rates of 15% or higher for COVID-19 are advised to self-quarantine upon return.Positivity rate is an indicator of how much COVID-19 there is in a community, and ODH is recommending against travel to those states with high positivity. If someone must travel, ODH is recommending self-quarantine after leaving those locations. This advisory is intended for both leisure and business travel and should be heeded by both Ohioans and out-of-state travelers.The list of states will be updated every week on Wednesday. Based on a 7-day rolling average of positivity rates, the affected states are available at: to Do During Self-QuarantineRemain at home and avoid all in-person activities. This includes work, grocery stores and pharmacies, public events, and public places.If you live in a home with other people who did not travel with you, stay in a separate room. If this is not possible, wear a face mask when you are in the same room and stay at least six feet away from others.Do not leave home except to seek medical care. If you need to see a provider for reasons other than a medical emergency, please call in advance and discuss the care you need.In the event of a medical emergency, call 9-1-1. Indicate that you are in home quarantine for COVID-19 exposure. Keep a face mask on until you are asked by a health care provider to remove it.Do not have visitors in your home.Do not use public transportation, taxis, or ride-shares. Take your temperature with a thermometer two times a day Monitor for fever, as well as other symptoms including cough, difficulty breathing, fatigue, muscle or body aches, headache, loss of taste or smell, sore throat, congestion or runny nose, nausea or vomiting, or diarrhea. If fever and/or symptoms develop, call your medical provider.?SOURCE: I travelled internationally. What should I be doing?Refer to CDC travel guidance at: . Are travelers able to come into the United States from other countries?Several Presidential proclamations established restrictions on the entry of certain travelers into the United States in an effort to help slow the spread of COVID-19. With specific exceptions, foreign nationals who have been in any of the following countries during the past 14 days may not enter the United States. For a full list of exceptions, please refer to the relevant proclamations in the links below:ChinaIranEuropean Schengen area (Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Monaco, San Marino, Vatican City)United Kingdom (England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland)Republic of IrelandBrazilSouth AfricaYou can find the full proclamation for additional questions here: Are people allowed to come to Ohio? If so, what precautions should they take?Currently, per Ohio Department of Public Health order, people who have or likely have COVID-19 and have not recovered are prohibited from entering the state.This includes people in any of the following categories:Those who have tested positive for COVID-19 and have not recovered.Those who are presumptively diagnosed with COVID-19 and have not recovered.Anyone exhibiting symptoms identified in the screening guidance available from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Ohio Department of Health.Exceptions include anyone entering Ohio who is:Under medical orders for the purposes of medical care.Being transported by emergency medical services (EMS).Driving or being driven directly to a medical provider for purposes of initial care.A permanent resident of the state.There are no additional COVID-19-related travel mandates. However, it is advised that anyone entering Ohio from a state with high incidence of COVID-19 should quarantine after arrival. This includes states that report positive testing rates of 15% or higher for the disease. Does Ohio still have a weekly travel advisory? Starting March 10, 2021, the Ohio Department of Health (ODH), will no longer issue a travel advisory for those entering Ohio after traveling to states reporting positive testing rates of 15% or higher. Instead, ODH is revising its travel guidance to encourage Ohioans to carefully review Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidance when considering travel.This change means the state-by-state list will no longer be updated. Even as more individuals are vaccinated across the United States and in Ohio and testing availability continues to improve, travelers should still practice appropriate public health measures to slow the spread of COVID-19, such as wearing masks, practicing physical distancing, and washing your hands.Additional CDC guidance related to domestic travel during the COVID-19 pandemic includes:Travel can increase your chance of getting or spreading COVID-19. Postponing travel and staying home is the best way to protect yourself and others from COVID-19.You and your travel companions (including children) may feel well and not have any symptoms, but you can still spread COVID-19 to family, friends, and community after travel.If you have a known exposure to COVID-19, you should delay travel even if you are not feeling sick, quarantine yourself from other people, get tested, and monitor your health.Don’t travel if you are sick or test positive for COVID-19, and don’t travel with someone who is plete CDC guidance on travel can be found here: Which airports in Ohio are screening?No airports in Ohio are screening travelers. Travelers who travel on flights with a known COVID-19 case are reported to ODH and the local health departments via secure messaging. ODH and Ohio local health departments will be in touch with the affected travelers for contact tracing. A list of Transportation Security Administration (TSA) orders related to travel are available at: (last updated November 2).Receiving PackagesAm I at risk for COVID-19 from a package or shipped products?It is unlikely. Coronaviruses are mostly spread by droplets. In general, coronaviruses do not live a long time on surfaces. There is likely very low risk of spread from products or packaging that are shipped over a period of days or weeks at room temperatures. Currently, there are no known cases linked to imported goods or packages shipped within or outside of the United States. In addition, there have not been any cases of COVID-19 in the United States associated with imported goods. SOURCE: I at risk for novel coronavirus if I received imported goods from China or another country with widespread community transmission?Currently, there are no known cases linked to imported goods. However, you may get COVID-19 by touching a surface or object that has virus on it, and then by touching your mouth, nose, or eyes. If you have symptoms that are worrying you, contact your healthcare provider. SOURCE: Am I at risk for novel coronavirus if I received imported goods from China or another country with widespread community transmission and now have a stiff neck and congestion?Currently, there are no known cases linked to imported goods. If you have symptoms that are worrying you, contact your healthcare provider. SOURCE: I Am Worried/UpsetI’m frustrated you keep changing the website and can’t find anything I’m looking for. Why did you change it?We understand that it’s frustrating that things have shifted. We recently redesigned the site to better categorize the information that’s there. We also wanted to improve the experience on mobile devices. We added a search feature at the top of the site and hope that helps as you are looking for resources you need. (Ask if there is any specific information you may help the caller find) I got a call/texts from someone claiming to be doing exposure notification for COVID-19. I am worried it might be a scam. We have learned scammers are contacting people claiming to be tracing COVID-19 contacts. While legitimate public health officials are calling people to complete exposure notification, they will never ask for your Social Security or bank account information and will not share your information with unauthorized people. To avoid scams- Do not click on links or respond to texts saying you have been exposed. If you receive a call and are concerned it may be a scam, hang up and call the local health department directly to confirm with them and their staff doing exposure notification. Please report suspected scams by calling 1-800-282-0515 or visiting . This is the reporting contact for the Ohio Attorney General’s Office.The Ohio Exposure Notification system will send you text messages asking about your symptoms during exposure notification, but again – it will not ask for social security or bank information. The messages will start with “ODH.”ONLY IF they want to confirm what number the ODH texts will be coming from, the number is +1 (844) 311-7395. Do not offer up the number without them already having it, to avoid giving the number to scammers who may use it to trick others. Is it safe to eat at a Chinese Restaurant?No cases of COVID-19 have been reported from eating food. SOURCE: I ate civet cat in Hong Kong; or I ate fugu in Shanghai, or I ate pangolin in Vietnam, am I at risk?No. No cases have been reported from consuming food.SOURCE: am worried my child with developmental disabilities is struggling with remote learning. Are there resources available?To assist children with developmental disabilities who have Individualized Education Plans and are remote learning, the Governor announced the launch of Learning Aid Ohio, a supplemental tutoring program.Starting on Monday, eligible families can apply for up to $1,500 in grant funding to cover costs of tutoring and other needed supports. To apply for a grant or to sign up as a provider, visit .I am worried I will catch COVID-19 when I am in the hospital or surgical center, should I postpone my surgery or procedure?Please discuss your situation with your healthcare provider.Stigma and COVID-19Some groups of people who may experience stigma during the COVID-19 pandemic include:Certain racial and ethnic minority groups, including Asian Americans, Pacific Islanders, and black or African Americans;People who tested positive for COVID-19, have recovered from being sick with COVID-19, or were released from COVID-19 quarantine;Emergency responders or healthcare providers;Other frontline workers, such as grocery store clerks, delivery drivers, or farm and food processing plant workers;People who have disabilities or developmental or behavioral disorders who may have difficulty following recommendations;People who have underlying health conditions that cause a cough;People living in congregate (group) settings, such as people experiencing homelessness.SOURCE: What is stigma?Stigma is stereotyping and discriminating against a group of people, a place, or a nation.Stigma is associated with a lack of knowledge about how COVID-19 spreads, a need to blame someone, fears about disease and death, and gossip that spreads rumors and myths. For example, stigma and discrimination can occur when people link a disease, such as COVID-19, with a population, community, or nationality. Stigma can also happen after a person has recovered from COVID-19 or been released from home isolation or quarantine.SOURCE: Why is COVID-19 causing so much stigma?The level of stigma associated with COVID-19 is based on three main factors: 1) it is a disease that’s new and for which there are still many unknowns; 2) we are often afraid of the unknown; and 3) it is easy to associate that fear with ‘others’. It is understandable that there is confusion, anxiety, and fear among the public. Unfortunately, these factors are also fueling harmful stereotypes.SOURCE: What is the impact?Stigma can undermine social cohesion and prompt possible social isolation of groups, which might contribute to a situation where the virus is more, not less, likely to spread. This can result in more severe health problems and difficulties controlling a disease outbreak. Stigma can: Drive people to hide the illness to avoid discrimination Prevent people from seeking health care immediately Discourage them from adopting healthy behaviors SOURCE: How can I help address stigma?Here are some tips on how to address and avoid compounding, social stigma: Words matter: dos and don’ts when talking about the new coronavirus (COVID-19) Do your part: simple ideas to drive stigma away Communication tips and messagesSOURCE: For more information on stigma, refer to:. Is there any guidance on preventing discrimination against Chinese students/restaurants?COVID-19 can only be transmitted by a person who has the virus. No individual who is free from infection with COVID-19 poses a risk to the public. ODH encourages compassion during these difficult situations and to allow science to inform our messaging. SOURCE: , Disparities and COVID-19I heard minorities are being affected by COVID-19 more. Is that true?Yes. Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, evidence has shown that communities of color have been disproportionately affected by the virus, especially African American and Hispanic communities.How are we addressing the racial disparities associated with COVID-19?On April 20, 2020, the State of Ohio created a Minority Health Strike Force to respond to and correct these disparities. The strike force will examine issues such as underlying health conditions, social determinants of health (e.g. housing and transportation), and economics that can widen gaps across communities. The strike force will also address hate crimes/speech and discrimination during this pandemic. The strike force will then work with the data collected to recommend changes and policy creation to help minimize racial disparities.The strike force is also addressing migrant health challenges during this pandemic, and more information on their determinations will be made available later.The full list of the strike force members can be found on coronavirus.On May 21, 2020, Governor DeWine announced a partnership with The Ohio Association of Community Health Centers and the Nationwide Foundation to distribute thousands of Community Wellness Kits. These kits will help protect families in communities disproportionately affected by COVID-19. They contain COVID-19 protection-related items, such as face coverings, hand sanitizer, and soap. In August 2020, the Minority Health Strike Force released their final report. The?COVID-19?Minority?Health?Strike?Force?Blueprint?lists 34 recommendations on dismantling racism, removing public health obstacles, improving the social/economic and physical environments, and strengthening data collection to better track disparities. The blueprint can be found at: In response to the Strike Force's report, Governor DeWine issued?Ohio’s Executive Response: A Plan of Action to Advance Equity. The action plan outlines efforts to reinforce the DeWine Administration's commitment to advancing health equity and establishing Ohio as a model for justice, equity, opportunity, and resilience.?As part of his commitment to equity, Governor DeWine also announced the creation of the new Ohio Governor's Equity Advisory Board.?As a response, the Strike Force announced a walk-up/drive-up testing initiative with the Ohio Association of Community Health Centers and their affiliate members (Community Health Centers) and the Ohio National Guard. These sites will also include other local community-based organizations i.e., faith-based organizations, community centers, food pantries, etc.Testing for this initiative will be available for individuals with or without symptoms. The test has no out-of-pocket cost to the patient and individuals of any age can access the test. Minors will need signed consent of a parent/guardian.SOURCE: are we helping more people access testing in the affected areas, populations?On May 21, 2020, Governor DeWine announced a partnership with The Ohio Association of Community Health Centers to expand access to testing in minority communities. These health centers are placed in our most economically depressed communities and offer high quality comprehensive primary care.Pop-up testing is available for anyone who want a test regardless of ability to pay. SOURCE: How are we reaching hard-to-reach individuals throughout the state to offer them support? On May 21, 2020, Governor DeWine announced the state is directing $1 million in grants to specifically provide mental health and addiction services for hard-to-reach individuals throughout the state of Ohio.The grants will allow faith-based and local community-based organizations to develop culturally appropriate messages, targeting those who may not be as easily reached by mass-media messaging efforts, such as racial/ethnic minorities, Appalachian/rural communities, older adults.For information about applying for this funding opportunity, please visit Coronavirus..Individuals can also reach out to 2-1-1 a phone service that connects Ohioans to local non-profit and government services for healthcare, food and meals, housing, transportation, mental health, and legal services. Ohioans can also dial 877-721-8476 to get connected to 2-1-1.How are we addressing disparities associated with migrant workers and COVID-19?The State of Ohio has created a Minority Health Strike Force. They are examining issues such as underlying health conditions, social determinants of health (e.g. housing and transportation), and economics that can widen gaps across communities facing health disparities- including minorities and migrant workers in Ohio. Governor DeWine announced that the state has created a?Rapid Response Guide for Migrant and Seasonal Farmworkers. This guide will support local health districts in developing culturally appropriate plans to respond to outbreaks in the migrant and seasonal farmworker communities. A copy of the guide will be available at?coronavirus..In addition, the Ohio Department of Health is awarding $2.6 million in CARES Act funding to agricultural camp operators to improve the health and safety of migrant workers worksites and camps to reduce the transmission of COVID-19. The improvements will focus on reducing housing density, installing touchless equipment, partitions, and hand washing stations. The Department of Health and the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services are distributing face masks, hand sanitizer, disinfectant cleaner, and digital forehead thermometers to workers and operators. minorities or people with high-risk health conditions included in the clinical studies?Yes. During the clinical studies for all three FDA approved COVID-19 vaccines, minorities or people with high-risk health conditions were included. The Phase 3 clinical trials for the Pfizer-BioNTech (more than 43,000 participants), Johnson & Johnson (Janssen) vaccines (more than 43,000 participants) and Moderna vaccines (more than 30,000 participants) included communities that have historically been under-represented in clinical research and have been disproportionately impacted by COVID-19. The clinical studies included participants:? From communities of color (42% of Pfizer-BioNTech’s participants, 37% of the Moderna participants, 35% of U.S. Janssen participants).? Older than age 65 (21% of Pfizer-BioNTech participants; 23% of Moderna participants); older than 60 (34% of Janssen participants).? With high-risk chronic diseases that put them at increased risk of severe COVID-19, such as diabetes, severe obesity, and cardiac disease (46% of Pfizer-BioNTech participants; 42% of Moderna participants, 40% of Janssen participants).What if I have difficulty accessing the Internet to do my job or distance learning?BroadbandOhio, the state’s office dedicated to improving access to high-speed internet, has been working with providers to find public hotspot locations that Ohioans can use in areas where they may not otherwise have access to internet from home. Providers not currently listed that are offering public wi-fi hotspots are encouraged to email together@governor. with contact information, and a representative from BroadbandOhio will follow-up. Check out Wi-Fi hotspot locations in Ohio at wps/portal/gov/innovate/news/news-and-events/04042020.On April 9, 2020, Lt. Governor Jon Husted also announced that new hotspots have been established to provide even more locations for access to the internet. He also suggested going to public libraries. While they are closed, you can access the WiFi from the parking lot safely in your car. You can find information about internet resources for schools, parents, and other Ohioans at procure.AnimalsWhat about animals or animal products imported from China or other countries?Imported animals will need to meet CDC and USDA’s external requirements for entering the United States. At this time, there is no evidence that companion animals, including pets and service animals, can spread the virus that causes COVID-19. As with any animal introduced to a new environment, animals recently imported should be observed daily for signs of illness. If an animal becomes ill, the animal should be examined by a veterinarian. Call your local veterinary clinic before bringing the animal into the clinic and let them know that the animal was recently imported from another country.This is a rapidly evolving situation and information will be updated as it becomes available.Source: \Should I be concerned about pets or other animals and COVID-19?In the United States, there is no evidence that animals are playing a significant role in the spread of COVID-19. Based on the limited information available to date, the risk of animals spreading COVID-19 to people is considered to be low. However, because all animals can carry germs that can make people sick, it’s always a good idea to practice healthy habits around pets and other animals.Wash your hands after handling animals, their food, waste, or supplies.Practice good pet hygiene and clean up after pets properly.Talk to your veterinarian if you have questions about your pet’s health.Be aware that children 5 years of age and younger, people with weakened immune systems, and older adults are more likely to get sick from germs some animals can carry.SOURCE: Can pets carry COVID-19 on their skin or fur?Although we know certain bacteria and fungi can be carried on fur and hair, there is no evidence that viruses, including the virus that causes COVID-19, can spread to people from the skin, fur, or hair of pets. Do not wipe or bathe your pet with chemical disinfectants, alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or other products, such as hand sanitizer, counter-cleaning wipes, or other industrial or surface cleaners. If you have questions about appropriate products for bathing or cleaning your pet, talk to your veterinarian.SOURCE: Should I avoid contact with pets or other animals if I am sick?If you are sick with COVID-19 (either suspected or confirmed by a test), you should restrict contact with your pets and other animals, just like you would with people. Until we know more about this virus, people sick with COVID-19 should?avoid contact with pets and other animals. When possible, have another member of your household care for your animals while you are sick. If you must care for your pet while you are sick [with COVID-19], wear a facemask and wash your hands before and after interacting with your pet and avoid petting, snuggling, being licked, and sharing food. If you are sick with COVID-19 and your pet becomes sick,?do not take your pet to the veterinary clinic yourself. Call your veterinarian and let them know you have been sick with COVID-19. Some veterinarians may offer telemedicine consultations or other plans for seeing sick pets. Your veterinarian can evaluate your pet and determine the next steps for your pet’s treatment and care.SOURCE: What kinds of animals have had COVID-19?See list at: Health Departments, LTC Facilities, and Healthcare ProvidersI am a vaccine provider and my information isn’t listed on the Vaccine Provider Location search website. Why?The Vaccine Provider Location search only lists providers who have received an allocation, and it is updated with information for the coming week on Fridays. If you haven’t received an allocation for the current or coming week, your site will not be listed. However, once an allocation is received, it will be listed.I am a vaccine provider and my website/phone number/address is wrong on the Vaccine Provider Location search website. Can you fix it?We understand that this information may change, and providers have the ability to update this information themselves using the instructions found at (case sensitive). This requires you to log in with your OHID and update information in the Vaccine Provider Program (COVID-19) app. Only the person who added the location will have the ability to update it, so if someone else in your office may have added the location, you may need to work with them. The information will not be updated on the website immediately, as the data refreshes in the afternoons. Depending upon the time of day you make the update, you may see the update in the afternoon or the following day. Finally, if you are a new provider, you can follow these instructions to add a new location to the database.How can I update my information for the Vaccine Provider Locations tool at coronavirus. if something changes or add new locations later?Detailed instructions are available at (case sensitive). This requires you to log in with your OHID and update information in the Vaccine Provider Program (COVID-19) app. It is the same program you used to add your location, however, you follow a button on the left hand column to “update a location.” I’ll go over the step-by-step instructions momentarily. Only the person who added the location will have the ability to update it, so if someone else in your office may have added the location, you may need to work with them. Step-by-step instructions: Log in with your OHID and go to the Vaccination Program (COVID-19) app at . If you get an error message, please close your browser, including all open tabs, and open a new window to log in.Once you have logged in, scroll down to the “Vaccine Administration Locations” section and click “Learn More.”On that page, click the “Update Location(s)” form. This will take you to the "Update Vaccine Location" page. You are only able to see information related to the locations you created yourself. You should see a list of all sites you have added. Select the “Edit” button on the location you would like to update. After you hit edit, scroll all the way to the bottom of the page, and the information for the site you would like to update should appear. Click the green edit button with a pencil icon. Make any necessary updates. Once completed, hit the “Save this Location” button, then hit the “Submit Locations” button.The information will not be updated on the website immediately, as the data refreshes in the afternoons. Depending upon the time of day you make the update, you may see the update in the afternoon or the following day. I received an activation link for the vaccine management solution (VMS). Can you help me?Enrolled vaccine providers who have questions about the VMS should contact the ODH COVID-19 Provider Call Center at 1-844-9ODHVAX (1-844-963-4829), or email COVIDVACCINE@odh..I am a health department and I was notified by ODH of an exposed traveler. I know I must monitor them for 14 days. How do you count the days?If the exposure was in the country or location, the day the person left the country/location is day 0 (zero). If the exposure was on the flight, itself, the date and time the flight landed is day 0 (zero).SOURCE: I/My patient traveled on a plane with someone with COVID-19. What should I advise him/her?If you suspect your patient may have been exposed to COVID-19, contact your local health department and let them know you or your patient may have been exposed to COVID-19. Contact tracers will advise individuals seated within 6 feet of a positive COVID-19 case to quarantine according to local guidelines.Just as with influenza and other illnesses, you can help protect yourself and others from infection by doing the following: Wash your hands for 20 seconds or more with soapy water. If unavailable, use hand sanitizer.Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.Avoid contact with people who are sick. Stay home while you are sick (except to visit a healthcare professional) and avoid close contact with others.Cover your mouth/nose with a tissue or sleeve when coughing or sneezing.Get adequate sleep and eat well-balanced meals to ensure a healthy immune system.SOURCE: patient traveled on a plane with someone under investigation for COVID-19; the person under investigation subsequently tested negative (no COVID-19 found). Should my patient monitor their temperature?No. You cannot contract COVID-19 from someone who does not have it. Someone who has been released from COVID-19 quarantine is not considered a risk for spreading the virus to others because they have not developed illness during the incubation period.SOURCE: What should healthcare professionals tell patients who call with symptoms of COVID-19 and related risk factors?The Ohio Department of Health does not provide medical treatment advice. If the provider has infection control questions, refer to BID main line 1-614-995-5599 or their local health department.How should healthcare professionals respond to patients with possible or confirmed COVID-19?Patients should receive any interventions they would normally receive as standard of care. Patients with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 should be asked to wear a surgical mask as soon as they are identified and be evaluated in a private room (ideally an airborne infection isolation room, if available) with the door closed. They also could be asked to wait in the car. Healthcare personnel entering the room should use standard precautions, contact precautions, airborne precautions, and eye protection (e.g., goggles or a face shield).Clinicians should also notify infection control personnel at their healthcare facility and their local health department if they suspect the patient could have COVID-19.I work for a LTC facility. Can we go through a private lab to do prevalence testing? Yes. That would be up to the long-term care facility.(For healthcare providers ONLY (General Information – no actual case) When can patients with confirmed COVID-19 be released from isolation.Current CDC guidance to release someone from isolation is made on a case-by-case basis and includes meeting all the following requirements:Patients with?mild to moderate?illness who are not severely immunocompromised:At least 10 days have passed?since symptoms first appeared?andAt least 24 hours have passed?since last?fever without the use of fever-reducing medications?andSymptoms (e.g., cough, shortness of breath) have improvedNote: For patients who are?not severely immunocompromised1?and who were?asymptomatic?throughout their infection, Transmission-Based Precautions may be discontinued when at least 10 days have passed since the date of their first positive viral diagnostic test.Patients with severe to critical illness or who are severely immunocompromised:At least 10 days and up to 20 days have passed since symptoms first appeared andAt least 24 hours have passed since last fever without the use of fever-reducing medications andSymptoms (e.g., cough, shortness of breath) have improvedConsider consultation with infection control expertsSomeone who has been released from isolation is not considered to pose a risk of infection to others.SOURCE: I am at a healthcare facility; I do not have anyone trained to ship Category B substances. How can I get training/ship specimens to ODH Lab?Pack and ship all specimens in accordance with the US Department of Transportation’s Hazardous Materials Regulations (DOT 49 CFR Parts 171-180) and with the International Air Transport Association’s Dangerous Goods Regulations (IATA). Additional packaging information is available at: (Please note: Diagnostic specimens are shipped as Category B Biological Specimens. This webpage has instructions for both Category A and Category B – Depending on your browser, you may need to scroll down to see the category B shipping picture.)SOURCE: hear a lot about standard, contact, droplet and airborne precautions. What are they?Standard Precautions are used for all patient care. They are based on the way diseases are spread and the type of exposure healthcare providers expect. They use common-sense practices and personal protective equipment. They protect healthcare providers from infection and prevent the spread of infection from patient to patient. Standard precautions include things like handwashing, glove and gown use when exposure to body fluids are expected.Transmission-based precautions include contact, droplet and airborne precautions. They are based on the specific disease(s) a patient has. They are used in healthcare, nursing homes and assisted living. They apply whenever healthcare workers enter the patient’s room. For contact precautions: healthcare workers will wear gloves and gown.For droplet precautions: healthcare workers will wear a mask and eye protection.For airborne precautions: healthcare workers will wear a special mask (N-95 or equivalent) and the patient will be in a room with special air circulation.For COVID-19: healthcare workers will wear gloves, gown, eye protection and a mask or N-95 respirator. Note that COVID-19 includes precautions from standard, contact, droplet and airborne precautions.Additional information can be found by going to: and I’m at a healthcare facility and want to apply for a patient to receive convalescent plasma therapy. Where can I send an application?The FDA has information about each situation you can apply for and the exact forms you need for each application. It can be found here: I’m at a healthcare facility and want to apply for a patient who has recovered from COVID-19 and may be able to donate plasma for other patients. Where can I send an application?Physicians seeking access for patients or to refer patients, also can submit information at plasma4covid. What is my region’s hospital plan?The full COVID-19 Regional Hospital Plans along with any drafts have significant portions that are exempted from release under Ohio law, for reasons including but not limited to the security and?infrastructure exceptions to Ohio’s Public records law.?We will however share certain information from each plan when finalized that affects the people in each region, so they know what’s happening as we move forward. We want to be transparent as much as possible while balancing the safety and security of our state.?Public records requests will be acknowledged within a reasonable time and will be responded to in a reasonable amount of time.I work in a long-term care facility. How can I help prevent the spread of COVID-19?Guidance for Infection Control and Prevention of Coronavirus in Nursing Homes can be found on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website: . For specific questions on infection control refer to BID main line at 614-995-5599.Ohioans Protecting Ohioans Urgent Health AdvisoryWhat is the new Ohioans Protecting Ohioans Urgent Health Advisory?On May 19, 2020 Governor DeWine announced the new Ohioans Protecting Ohioans Urgent Health Advisory.The health order replaces language requiring Ohioans to stay at home with limited exceptions with language that strongly recommends that citizens, especially those who are high-risk, stay at home as much as possible. The order does not change the mass gathering restrictions, which remain at a 10-person limit.The new health advisory also lifts overall travel restrictions and the requirement to quarantine if someone travels to or returns to Ohio. Unnecessary travel within or outside of Ohio is not encouraged. In addition, those who have tested positive for COVID-19 and have not recovered, those who are presumptively diagnosed with COVID-19, and those who are exhibiting the symptoms identified in the screening guidance available from the CDC and the Ohio Department of Health, remain prohibited from entering the state of Ohio unless they are doing so under medical orders for purposes of medical care, are being transported by emergency medical services EMS, are driving or being driven directly to a medical provider for the purposes of initial care, or are a permanent resident of Ohio.What is included/changed in the new urgent health advisory? The new advisory incorporates six feet of social distancing; a limit of 10 people for mass gatherings; frequent handwashing; and other sanitizing efforts.It incorporates all the business orders about social distancing and sanitation, including employees wearing masks, as well as efforts to protect employees and efforts to protect the public.The order strongly recommends that high-risk Ohioans stay at home as much as possible. They should avoid places where they are likely to encounter a lot of people.Our Urgent Health Advisory recommends (but does not require) all other Ohioans to stay at their place of residence when possible with the intent of lowering the rate of spread of infection.While our orders have included limited travel restrictions, these will now be lifted. However, while unnecessary travel within or outside of the state of Ohio is still permitted, it is not encouraged.More information, and the advisory in its entirety, can be found on coronavirus. at Where can I get more details on this advisory?Please visit coronavirus. for more information on this health advisory.If a caller has a question not answered in these FAQs, you can access the full advisory here: Read them the section they have questions about but inform them that we cannot interpret the order for them and help them find it on the website to read it themselves. The Governor and Director of Health want to promote and protect the health of Ohioans. While, the Governor’s and Director’s Orders establish the spirit and parameters of Ohio’s response, it is impossible to anticipate all situations or provide individual responses to all questions. Businesses need to use their best judgment and make a good-faith decision. These are complex times and it is important that we all take measures to flatten the curve. Businesses must prove that they are following all the guidelines set forth in the order.Why have I seen the National Guard out? Are they going to quarantine communities?On March 18, 2020 Governor Mike DeWine activated the Ohio National Guard. The National Guard is currently assisting with long term care staff testing and they will be available to help facilities that request assistance. This is routine nationwide when dealing with a crisis. They are not going to be enforcing quarantines, or ordering citizens to stay in their homes or anything along those lines. They are simply being asked to help provide resources to Ohioans in need. The Ohio National Guard is supporting medical facilities across the state in building proactive plans to expand their capacity so if the need arises, so healthcare professionals can focus on what’s most important – treating patients and saving lives. Guard members will be visiting hospitals, medical facilities, and high-capacity sites that could be used for medical expansion if needed.The Ohio National Guard has a long history of supporting the nation during emergencies or disasters, when our state calls, we answer. These service members will provide medical services, equipment, and transportation for patients if more serious acute care is needed.How will COVID-19 orders be enforced? The law requires all citizens to obey orders issued by the Director of Health (Revised Code Section 3701.352).?Boards of health of a general or city health district, health authorities and officials, police officers, and sheriffs among others can enforce orders and rule of the department of health (Ohio Revised Code Sections 3701.56 and 3701.57). A violation of a 3701.352 is a second-degree misdemeanor (Revised Code 3701.99) and law enforcement can issue citations to the business owner and the patrons violating the orders. Finally, law enforcement can issue a citation to anyone who fails to disperse when ordered to do so by law enforcement. (Revised Code 2917.04).??If you can confirm the caller is law enforcement or a prosecutor, it is ok to share the general number for the Office of General Counsel and one of the ODH attorneys can work with the caller. That number is 614-466-4882?If the caller is a citizen and is reporting a violation advise them to contact their local health department enforcement to report the violation.?My employer is requiring me to work. What can I do?Employees who work for essential employers need to discuss their concerns with their employer. The Order requires those employers to put in place necessary safety measures. The decision to work when employed by an essential employer is a personal one.(Please do not send callers to the Department of Commerce Wage and Hour Division. Wage and Hour does not handle that type of complaint. ODH should not advise a caller on the course of action.)Can I still go visit elderly relatives? May I deliver food or other items to relatives?It is our understanding that individuals may still go deliver services or supplies such as food or other items to the elderly. You may still travel to care for the elderly, minors, dependents, those with developmental disabilities, and other vulnerable people living in non-congregate settings. You should not visit if you are feeling ill or have been exposed to anyone who is ill. Elderly relatives living in congregate settings may have facility specific or county specific rules. Please check with the facility before visiting.SOURCE: Reopening Ohio After Stay at Home OrderWhen will the state restrictions be lifted?Throughout the Spring and Summer new guidance will be released regarding different sectors (i.e., prom, banquet centers, wedding receptions, etc.). The Governor’s Office and Department of Health will continue to monitor case data, vaccination numbers, safety protocols being followed, and more, and guidance may change repeatedly due to the ever-changing situation within the state. On March 4, 2021, Governor DeWine announced that when Ohio gets down to 50 cases per 100,000 people for two weeks, all health orders will come off. Cases per 100,000 people for a two-week period is a standard measure we have used since early in the pandemic.What is the process for the recovery phase? On April 17 Governor DeWine shared that Ohio’s recovery phase would be by Ohioans for Ohioans. It will not start and end overnight. You flattened the curve, and you helped stop the rapid and massive spread of the virus. And, because of what you and essential businesses have done, we can gradually, carefully, and responsibly start to re-open. As Ohio begins to reopen, Governor DeWine stressed the need to balance:Compliance with public health measuresImplementation of safeguards in businessProtections for the most vulnerable Ohioans. More information will be available on coronavirus. as we move forward.Do we need to wear facemasks when we reopen?Yes, employees and employers are required to wear facemasks at all times while at work. At a minimum, cloth/fabric facial coverings (masks) must be worn and cover an individual’s nose, mouth, and chin.What should the daily symptom assessments include?These should include taking your temperature to check for a fever with a thermometer and watching for Signs or symptoms consistent with COVID-19.Fever or chillsCoughShortness of breath or difficulty breathingFatigueMuscle or body achesHeadacheNew loss of taste or smellSore throatCongestion or runny noseNausea or vomitingDiarrheaSOURCE: What do we do if we reopen and someone gets infected with COVID-19?If you reopen and someone gets sick, you must immediately report the employee or customer infections to the local health department/district. If an employee develops symptoms while at work, they should immediately be isolated.You must then work with the local health department to identify potentially exposed individuals to help facilitate appropriate communication and exposure notification. Follow local health department guidance on shut down, deep cleaning, quarantine, isolation and next steps. Reopening dates by business type.BusinessReopenConditionsOlder adult day care services and senior centers07/12/2020Must meet safety protocolsAdult day support or vocational habilitation services in congregate settingsMust meet safety protocolsHair salons, 05/15/2020Must meet safety protocolsBarbershops, 05/15/2020Must meet safety protocolsNail salons05/15/2020Must meet safety protocolsTattoo, and piercing businesses05/15/2020Must meet safety protocolsOutside dining bars and restaurants05/15/2020Must meet safety protocolsInside dining, bars and restaurants05/21/2020Must meet safety protocolsCampgrounds05/21/2020Must meet safety protocolsHorse racing 05/22/2020Must meet safety protocolsSpectators prohibitedGyms and fitness centers05/26/2020Must meet safety protocolsLow-contact or non-contact sports05/26/2020Must meet safety protocolsPools05/26/2020Must meet safety protocolsOhio BMV05/26/2020Services that can be accomplished online should still be done online.Childcare providers05/31/2020Reduced numbers of children in each classroom and intensified cleaning and handwashing practicesDay camps05/31/2020Must meet safety protocolsRooming and boarding houses, and workers’ campsEntertainment/recreation/gymnasium sitesIncludes, but is not limited to:All places of public amusement, whether indoors or outdoors, such as:arcades, indoor miniature golf facilities, bowling alleys, indoor trampoline parks, arcades, and adult and child skill or chance game facilities remain closed.Auditoriums, stadiums, arenasperformance theatres, and concert and music hallsParades, fairs, festivals, and carnivalsChildren's play centers, indoor playgrounds, and funplexesBeginning March 2, 2021, the following rules are in effect for spectators for sports and entertainment venues:The maximum number of spectators in any indoor sports venue shall be 25% of fixed, seated capacity.The maximum number of spectators permitted in any outdoor sports venue shall be 30% of fixed, seated capacity.The maximum number of patrons permitted in any indoor entertainment venue shall be 25% of fixed, seated capacity.The maximum number of patrons gathered in any outdoor entertainment venue shall be 30% fixed, seated capacity.Order: When can camps reopen? On May 14, 2020, Lt. Governor Husted announced the following:Day camps can reopen on May 31st if they can meet safety protocols. Protocols will be released by the end of the day May 15, 2020.Campgrounds can reopen on May 21st if they can meet safety protocols. The protocols are available at coronavirus.More information can be found in the Camp Safe Order on coronavirus. here: When will fitness centers/gyms/etc. open again?On May 14, 2020, Lt. Governor Husted announced gyms and fitness centers can reopen on May 26 if they can meet safety protocols. Protocols will be on coronavirus.What about miniature golf, batting cages, bowling alleys?Miniature golf, batting cages, and bowling alleys will be able to resume operations on May 26th if they can meet appropriate safety protocols.More information about protocols can be found at coronavirus.Is horse racing allowed? On May 14, 2020, Lt. Governor Husted announced horse racing can resume on May 22 if safety protocols can be met. However, spectators will be prohibited. Are car shows permitted?Car shows are not permitted under mass gathering restrictions. Will firework shows be permitted?Fireworks shows are not prohibited, they can proceed. But large gatherings are still not allowed at this time. The large gathering order is still in place and a lot of the large firework shows have been canceled, but for those who might be considering holding an event, we ask that you do so safely. We recommend finding ways to celebrate without gathering close together in small groups. For example: watch from your porch, your car, or your backyard.Are dog groomers open?At this time, dog groomers may conduct business by appointment, but must abide by all the safety requirements in the stay safe order. No more than 10 customers at any time, enforce social distancing, and the other safeguards included in the Stay Safe Order.?What was announced for wedding receptions and catering? Catering and banquet centers can reopen under similar guidelines as restaurants effective June 1. Guidelines include 6 feet between tables and no congregating. Wedding receptions, funeral repasts, proms, and other events, whether or not food is served, at banquet facilities shall comply with the Director’s Order for Facial Coverings throughout the State of Ohio, signed July 23, 2020, the Director’s Third Amended Order that Reopens Restaurants, Bars, Banquet and Catering Facilities and Services to Dine-in Service, with Exceptions, signed September 23, 2020 and the Addendum to Director’s Third Amended Order that Reopens Restaurants, Bars, Banquet and Catering Facilities and Services to Dine-in Service, with Exceptions, signed February 11, 2021. Events at banquet centers no longer have a 300-person limitation, so long as they comply with the Orders identified in this section.Facial coverings order: Orders reopening banquet and catering facilities: and Can gas stations and self-serve stations stay open or is it at the discretion of the company? Gas stations and self-serve stations may remain open per the advisory.Are garden centers still open?Garden centers may remain open. These retail locations should determine and enforce a reduced capacity to keep customers and employees safe.When can sporting and entertainment events continue?On February 25, 2021, Governor DeWine announced that sporting and entertainment events will be able to reopen with 25% maximum indoor capacity and 30% maximum outdoor capacity provided they follow established precautions. If the situation improves in spring/summer, this could be expanded. General admission (lawns, standing room, infields) will be allowed as long as masks are worn, and 6-foot distancing can be marked/maintained.Beginning March 2, 2021, the following rules are in effect for spectators for sports and entertainment venues:The maximum number of spectators in any indoor sports venue shall be 25% of fixed, seated capacity.The maximum number of spectators permitted in any outdoor sports venue shall be 30% of fixed, seated capacity.The maximum number of patrons permitted in any indoor entertainment venue shall be 25% of fixed, seated capacity.The maximum number of patrons gathered in any outdoor entertainment venue shall be 30% fixed, seated capacity.Order: How do we get the face masks from BWC Governor DeWine mentioned May 19, 2020?Ohio Bureau of Workers Comp. will begin distributing at least 2 million non-medical-grade face coverings to Ohio employers who are covered by BWC. These employers will get a package containing at least 50 face coverings. These packages will be shipped in batches beginning May 20, 2020. Employers will not have to do anything to get the masks. What if we receive more masks than we need from BWC?We just ask you to give them to others in the community who may need them.What is the IMAP that was announced? Where can we find information on the training programs Lt. Gov. Husted announced?On July 9, 2020, Lt. Gov. Jon Husted announced the launch of IMAP - the Individual Micro-credential Assistance Program - which helps unemployed Ohioans earn in-demand, tech-focused credentials, giving them a leg-up in finding a job in the increasingly tech-infused economy.You can find out more at IMAP.development.How do we find out more/apply for the TechCred Awards Lt. Governor Husted announced? The next application period of the TechCred program will open June 1st and run through June 30th, allowing for another opportunity for companies to train current and/or incoming employees.More information on TechCred can be found at TechCred..National and State Recommendations/Orders/Changes Are the daily press briefings available in different languages?Yes. You can go to the Ohio Channel YouTube video to see all past press briefings. Select which video you want to watch and turn on the closed captioning. You can then select which language you would like the captions to be in. Where can we see slides from the daily press conference?Those slides are available on our website, coronavirus. under educational resources. What is the curfew starting 11/19/2020, and later extended?The curfew expired February 11, 2021 due to decreasing numbers. If numbers or situations change, there may be another curfew enacted. What is the Stay Safe Ohio Protocol announced December 10, 2020?The Stay Safe Ohio Protocol includes the following recommendations:Stay at homeWear a maskKeep interactions short and stay apartWash your handsWork from homeCelebrate safe and smallDon’t eat or drink with anyone outside your householdLimit travelKeep weddings and funerals safeEnjoy safe holiday activities What will be included in the budget cuts for the state Governor DeWine mentioned May 5, 2020?For the months of May and April 2020, the following cuts will be made:?Medicaid: $210 million?K12 Foundation Payment Reduction: $300 million?Other Education Budget Line Items: $55 million ?Higher Education: $110 million ?All Other Agencies: $100 million These cuts add up to approximately $775 million in the next two months.All state agencies, except of the Department of Rehabilitation and Corrections, and the Governor’s Office will be taking cuts. The Governor has also asked directors of each agency to continue to identify other savings in their budgets for the remainder of this and next fiscal years.All agencies will suspend purchasing authority for non-essential purchases with continuation of only mission critical contractual services. Of the money in the budget that is Ohio taxpayer-funded, only 9.4 percent is spent on operating expenses of state agencies. Over 85 percent goes out across the state as subsidies to schools, higher education, Medicaid services, local governments, etc.The previously ordered freeze on hiring, promotions, non-required travel, raises, and new contracts. Will the Governor use money from the rainy-day fund?On May 5, 2020, Governor DeWine said he would be using rainy day funds at some point, but not yet.Is this a national emergency?On March 13, 2020 President Donald Trump declared a national emergency in the country’s response against COVID-19. What does the state of emergency on Ohio mean?The state of emergency allows state departments and agencies to better, and more quickly, coordinate and respond in their response to the COVID-19 outbreak. Governor DeWine also partially activated the state Emergency Operations Center March 9, 2020 to better allow state and local partners to coordinate their response efforts. The state of emergency currently does not change day-to-day activities of the general public. Governor DeWine has announced additional recommended precautions to prevent the spread of infection in the state. How do we apply for the grants for public service agency and law enforcement Governor DeWine mentioned April 29?On April 29, 2020 Governor DeWine announced that Ohio now has nearly $16 million in grant funding available to help from the Federal CARES Act. This funding was awarded to the Ohio Criminal Justice Services and will be made available for grant applications from local law enforcement, probation and parole offices, local courts, victim service providers, and adult, juvenile and community corrections agencies. The funding can be used for things including, but not limited to: Cleaning supplies and PPEOvertime costsNew technology for virtual court hearings Inmate medical needsAlternative housing for survivors of violence who need quarantined away from their homes due to safety concernsSupplies for COVID-19 monitoring and testing in local jails.Agencies may apply for up to 12 months of funding, and there is no local match required. OCJS has not set a deadline for funding requests, but we do recommend agencies apply as soon as possible, because funding will eventually run out. For more information, please visit ocjs.What did Lt. Governor Husted announce for department of transportation changes? Can we have larger haul sizes for our trucks now? Department of Transportation is granting waivers for haulers carrying essential goods to have more flexibility with weight and size requirements if they are carrying essential goods, like medical supplies, during this time. You can print the permit and carry it with you, and the fee for oversized loads of essential goods will be waived. Find more information at Transportation. What is changing with the bureau of worker’s compensation? Do I still have to pay?On May 28, 2020, Governor DeWine announced that BWC will defer employers’ premium installments for the months of June, July, and August to help businesses keep their focus on the safety and well-being of their employees and customers.For additional questions, go to: Bwc. Where can we find all the orders from the Governor and the Director?All orders, once completed and finalized, are available on our website coronavirus. under public health orders. They provide more detail. Listed: What has the State of Ohio recommended for mass gatherings?Event venues like catering and banquet centers can open back up on June 1, 2020. Guidelines for those businesses can be found at coronavirus.Mass gatherings order: I am planning an event. What guidance does ODH have regarding mass gatherings and events?Refer to sector specific guidance.What are the exceptions to the mass gatherings rule?Refer to sector specific guidance.Mass gatherings order: I am planning a large event. How should I address concerns about COVID-19?Follow sector specific guidance. If not otherwise addressed, ODH and Ohio Governor Mike DeWine have ordered that all gatherings with more than 10 attendees are prohibited throughout the state. This order takes effect immediately on March 12, 2020 and will remain in full force until the State of Emergency declared by Governor DeWine no longer exists, or ODH rescinds or modifies it.Mass gatherings are considered as any event involving more than 10 people in a single room or space at the same time, such as an auditorium, stadium, arena, large conference room, meeting hall, theater, or any other confined indoor or outdoor space. People attending any gathering, even one with fewer than 10 people, should still maintain social distancing (approximately six feet away from others) whenever possible, and continue to follow other precautions to prevent the spread of infection. This would also include parades, fairs, and festivals. This does not apply to normal operations at airports, bus and train stations, medical facilities, libraries, shopping malls and centers, or other spaces where 10 or more persons may be in transit. It also does not apply to office environments, school, restaurants, factories, or retail or grocery stores- where large numbers of people may be present, but not within an arm’s reach of each other.Athletic and other events do not need to be cancelled or postponed if spectators and other attendees are excluded. Immediate family members of participants in the event, or necessary members for the event, are still permitted. This order does not apply to media.This order does not apply to religious gatherings, gatherings for the expression of First Amendment protected speech, weddings or funerals.Beginning March 2, 2021, the following rules are in effect for spectators:The maximum number of spectators in any indoor sports venue shall be 25% of fixed, seated capacity.The maximum number of spectators permitted in any outdoor sports venue shall be 30% of fixed, seated capacity.The maximum number of patrons permitted in any indoor entertainment venue shall be 25% of fixed, seated capacity.The maximum number of patrons gathered in any outdoor entertainment venue shall be 30% fixed, seated capacity.Where can we find out more about/apply for the program to help nursing homes, assisted living centers, and adult day centers improve indoor air quality?Eligible recipients can receive up to $15,000 to address indoor air quality through HVAC inspections, portable air filtration systems, new filtration systems, maintenance on current systems, and other interventions. For more information about the program, please visit the Ohio BWC website at bwc..What will the Ohio Manufacturing Alliance to Fight COVID-19 do?On April 9, 2020, Governor Mike DeWine announced the alliance included 19 manufacturers who have partnered with three hospital groups to begin large scale production of face shields for Ohio. With the specifications from our hospital partners, they have developed the prototype. This type of shield can be disinfected at the hospitals and reused. They have moved from prototype-to-production in just two weeks.These are companies that normally make products ranging from toys to engine parts. But they have come together to help create something for healthcare workers. If you want to help create needed PPE, go to The President also asked that they avoid making additional orders.Find local EMAs: I want to help in the fight against COVID-19. Is there a way I can donate resources or services?The state of Ohio is asking residents and businesses who can donate PPE, or any other essential service or resource, to email together@governor..At the March 31, 2020 press conference, Governor DeWine asked for volunteers. How do we volunteer?General volunteers:If you are interested in helping your fellow Ohioans, please email together@governor. with the following:Name.Contact information.How you are interested in helping.Medical Reserve Corp: Medical Reserve Corp volunteers are activated at the local level. For more information: I saw the messages/survey/posts about recruiting healthcare professionals for possible short-term employment to help our healthcare system. How can I help/apply?Advise them to go to the Ohio Responds Volunteer Registry at for the Ohio Responds Volunteer Registry:Click “Register Now.”Click “Add Organizations,” select the plus sign (+) for a drop down of county MRC units.Select your county of residence or plete the registration.Congratulations! You will hear from your local coordinator with next steps.What is the state doing about price gauging? The Governor has talked to Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost, and he is ready to act against price gauging in this time of worry, to make sure Ohioans are not charged more than fair price for items they need. Scammers are trying to monopolize on the fear and uncertainty that COVID-19 has brought to so many. Watch out for claims of products or medications that can prevent or treat COVID-19 or anyone asking for your personal or banking information. If you suspect any unfair or deceptive sales practices, contact the office of Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost at or 1-800-282-0515What does the bill signed March 27th do for public and open-body meetings?The bill establishes a public body open meetings policy and a policy regarding hearings, which utilize the use of electronic communication in lieu of in-person meetings and hearings, for use only during the period of the emergency. This applies to local, county, and state government, and higher education.What does the bill signed March 27, 2020 do for telehealth and boards?Licensees of the following boards are permitted to provide services electronically or via telehealth communication to children who receive services through their resident school districts or under the Autism Scholarship or the Jon Peterson Special Needs Scholarship:Ohio Speech and Hearing Professionals BoardOhio Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, and Athletic Trainers BoardState Board of PsychologyCounselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist BoardState Board of Education, with respect to intervention specialists.What does the bill signed March 27, 2020 do for nursing license renewals?During the COVID-19 emergency, the law has been suspended requiring an applicant for a nursing license to have passed the licensure examination approved by the Board of Nursing. The Board of Nursing is required to issue a temporary license to practice as a registered nurse or licensed practical nurse to an applicant if the applicant meets the remaining statutory requirements, including completing a nursing education program and criminal records check.What does the bill signed March 27, 2020 do for license renewals?The bill extends current law deadlines during this time for license renewals until 90 days after the emergency ends or December 1. A licensing authority make still take disciplinary action against a license, except for delaying to taking action to maintain the license during the extension.Standard concealed handgun licenses that are scheduled to expire during the period of emergency provides an extension of 90 days or until December 1, whichever occurs sooner.Excluded from the deadline extensions is an individual’s duty to register or enroll as a violent offender, arson offender, or sex offender.COVID-19 Research in OhioWhat is the wastewater testing announced?We are posting information at coronavirus. about the Ohio Coronavirus Wastewater Monitoring Network, a new effort to study wastewater at several sewage treatment plants to help contain the spread of COVID-19.The system will give us an earlier warning sign of possible COVID-19 case increases in any given community and allow decision-makers to more quickly plan prevention and response efforts.Each wastewater treatment plant covers a specific service area, so these are community-level measures that can be used to determine if a local surge in COVID-19 cases may be imminent.HolidaysWhat does the State of Ohio recommend for holiday celebrations? Are holiday celebrations allowed?Please remember the mass gathering order is still in effect, and does apply to public and private gatherings. Gatherings of more than 10 people from different households is prohibited during the pandemic. For holiday gatherings, the state has released recommendations for how to celebrate safely, and reminding Ohioans to keep their gatherings small. If you do celebrate, make sure to wear a mask and try to stay six feet away from others. You can find the guidance, which has suggestions for many holidays, on Coronavirus. as one of the features on the homepage ( )Mass gatherings order: The holidays are coming up and I want to spend them with my family, how can we reduce the risk of spreading COVID-19 to other family members? HostingIf you will be hosting a celebration, follow?CDC tips for hosting gatherings. Below are some additional considerations for hosting a holiday celebration:Host outdoor activities rather than indoor activities as much as possible. If hosting an outdoor event is not possible, and you choose to host an indoor event, avoid crowded, poorly ventilated, or fully enclosed indoor spaces.Increase ventilation by opening windows and doors to the extent that is safe and feasible based on the weather.Host activities with only people from your local area as much as possible.Limit numbers of attendees as much as possible.Provide updated information to your guests about any COVID-19 safety guidelines and steps in place to prevent the spread of the virus.Provide or encourage attendees to bring supplies to help you and others stay healthy. For example, extra?masks?(do not share or swap with others), hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol, and tissues.If you are planning in-person holiday gatherings with people outside of your household, consider asking all guests to strictly avoid contact with people outside of their households for 14 days before the gathering.SOURCE: you will be attending a celebration that someone else is hosting, follow?CDC Considerations for attending an event or gathering. Below are some additional considerations for attending an in-person holiday gathering:Outdoor activities are safer than indoor activities. If participating in an outdoor event is not possible, and you choose to attend an indoor event, avoid crowded, poorly ventilated, and fully enclosed indoor spaces. Increase ventilation by opening windows and doors to the extent that is safe and feasible based on the weather.Check with the event host, organizer, or event venue for updated information about any COVID-19 safety guidelines and if they?have steps in place?to prevent the spread of the virus.Bring supplies to help you and others stay healthy. For example, bring extra?masks?(do not share or swap with others), hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol, and tissues.If you are planning to attend in-person holiday gatherings with people outside of your household, consider strictly avoiding contact with people outside of your household for 14 days before the gathering.How can I stay well and participate in holiday meals/meal preparation?Keep safe around food and drinks Currently, there is no evidence to suggest that handling food or eating is associated with directly spreading COVID-19. It is possible that a person can get COVID-19 by touching a surface or object, including food, food packaging, or utensils that have the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or possibly their eyes. However, this is not thought to be the main way that the virus is spread. Remember, it is always important to follow good hygiene to reduce the risk of illness from common foodborne germs.Make sure everyone washes their hands with soap and water for 20 seconds before and after preparing, serving, and eating food. Use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available.Instead of potluck-style gatherings, encourage guests to bring food and drinks for themselves and for members of their own household only.Limit people going in and out of the areas where food is being prepared or handled, such as in the kitchen or around the grill, if possible.Wear a?mask?while preparing or serving food to others who don’t live in your household.If serving any food, consider having one person serve all the food so that multiple people are not handling the serving utensils.Use single-use options or identify one person to serve sharable items, like salad dressings, food containers, plates and utensils, and condiments.Avoid any self-serve food or drink options, such as buffets or buffet-style potlucks, salad bars, and condiment or drink stations. Use grab-and-go meal options, if available.If you choose to use any items that are reusable (e.g., seating covers, tablecloths, linen napkins), wash?and disinfect?them after the event.Look for healthy food and beverage options, such as fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and low or no-calorie beverages, at holiday gatherings to help maintain good health.Other Referral Contact Numbers (Not Immediate)Ohio Department of AgingHow can I contact the Ohio Department of Aging Residential Care Facilities COVID-19 Testing Initiative?You can reach the Ohio Department of Aging Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 1-800-266-4346. For TTY, use Relay Ohio: Dial 711 and use 614-466-5500 for general information.SOURCE: Ohio Office of the OmbudsmanHow can I contact the Ombudsman’s Office?Ohio’s Office of the State Long-term Care Ombudsman:Advocate for person-centered approaches by providers to meet the needs and honor the preferences of residents;Link residents with services or agencies;Offer resources for selecting long-term care providers; andProvide information and assistance with benefits and insurance.Paid and volunteer staff work to resolve complaints about services, help people select a provider and offer information about benefits and consumer rights. Ombudsman representatives?do not regulate nursing homes and home health agencies, but do work with providers, residents, their families and other representatives to resolve problems and concerns.For assistance, contact your?regional long-term care ombudsman program, or call 1-800-282-1206, or email the State Ombudsman at: OhioOmbudsman@age..SOURCE: Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction ServicesWhere can I go to get mental health help? How can I get mental health help?On April 22, 2020, OMHAS Director Lori Criss announced a new mental health care line which can be reached at 1-800-720-9616. The call center is open 8am-8pm every day and rolls over to a national number at night.Other resources:Disaster Distress HelplineAvailable 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, year-round1-800-985-59901-800-846-8517 TTYText "TalkWithUs" to?66746Spanish-speakers: Text "Hablanos" to?66746Ohio Crisis Text LineText keyword "4HOPE" to?741 741 to quickly start a dialogue about your mental health needs.OhioMHAS Help Line1-877-275-6364Available Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. to talk with a person, get questions answered, and pointed to local treatment options.OhioMHAS Care Line1-800-720-9616The call center is open 8am-8pm every day and rolls over to a national number at night.Addiction and Mental Health Treatment in Your Local Community database on mental health and addiction services in local communities.National Suicide Prevention Lifeline1-800-273-8255Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and CorrectionsI have an inmate in an ODRC facility, and I have questions about a specific facility. Where/Who do I call?Call 614-752-1161 and a member of ODRC’s Family Support team will assist you. Ohio Local Health Departments How do I reach my local health department?Go to: . UtilitiesHow do we sign up for the rent/utilities assistance in Ohio? Who can sign up?The state Controlling Board approved $100 million in federal funding to help low-income Ohioans who do not own their own home pay their rent, water, sewer, wastewater, electric, gas, oil and/or trash removal bills. Eligible Ohioans may contact their local Community Action Agency for assistance. Find a list at businesshelp. . Eligible Ohioans include those who:Are at or below 80% of their county’s Area Median Income (varies by county and size of household), andHave experienced a financial hardship due to COVID-19, andDemonstrate a risk of experiencing homelessness or housing instability. Assistance can go toward outstanding balances dating back to March 13, 2020, assistance for future rent/utility payments once back bills have been made current, and assistance for future rent and utility assistance for 3 months at a time.How do I reach the utility (electric, gas, water) company?Go to: . Click on the tab for Natural Gas, Electricity or Water.How do I get my water turned back on if it was shut off?The?Ohio Environmental Protection Agency?allowed water companies to resume consumer disconnections as of July 10, 2020. Guidance is available on the EPA’s website here: on Utility Shut Offs Communications Commission’s “Keep Americans Connected” program, for suspending disconnections of broadband and telephone service, ended on July 1, 2020.Telephone Lifelines UtilitiesUtility customers can contact the PUCO call center with any questions or concerns: Web: PUCO.contact-us, Phone:?1-800-686-7826.Medical Waivers for Utility Shut Offs Energy Assistance Programs (HEAP): Ohio Development Services Agency Guidelines Percentage of Income Payment Plans Funded Assistance Programs Weatherization Assistance Programs Programs for Military Families - Your Guide To Energy Disconnection & Reconnection: Acts to Keep Lifeline Subscribers Connected During COVID-19: OCC Fact Sheet: Facts about the Percentage-of-Income Payment Plan for Low-Income Energy Consumers Fact Sheet: Summer Crisis Program Fact Sheet: Utility-provided Assistance Programs 211: Connects Ohioans in need with community resources ................
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