What’s “the new normal” for the community?
Community, Press Release, UCFD April 29, 2020
BLAIRSVILLE, GA – Union County Fire Department and EMA issued the following statement concerning “the new normal” following COVID-19 and the governor’s reopening of the state’s economy.
“The Governor of the State of Georgia has signed an executive order on April 20th to allow certain businesses to open who have previously been ordered to close. This is being referred to as “opening up”. He followed up that executive order with another order on April 23rd that provided the guidelines for these businesses and extending other previous executive orders until May 13th. The businesses that are allowed to reopen must comply with certain restrictions and implement practices to reduce the exposure and spread of COVID-19. This can be very confusing and has raised a great deal of debate.
The “opening up” does not mean that we can throw caution to the wind or behave as if this is over. It is not over; this is our new normal for a while. The businesses that have chosen to open up must follow the restrictions and guidelines for the safety of employees and the customers. That is their responsibility. If anyone decides to go to these businesses, they must use common sense and practice all the precautions that have been taught over the last two months.
The new normal, for now at least, is practicing these precautions and preventive measures. This includes wearing a cloth mask. If you do not have a cloth mask by now, you are behind the times. People should get used to wearing a mask in public and get used to seeing others wearing them. The Governor’s executive order also “strongly encouraged” everyone to wear a mask when outside your home.
The mask is not only for your protection but for the protection of others. There is evidence that a person can be positive for COVID-19 and not be aware of it. They may have no signs and symptoms at all. They could also be spreading the virus without knowing it. This is why wearing a cloth mask in public is very important not only for your safety but for the safety of others.
According to the CDC, a cloth face covering or mask should fit snugly but comfortably against the side of the face; be secured with ties or ear loops; include multiple layers of fabric; allow for breathing without restriction; and be able to be laundered and machine dried without damage or change to shape. The CDC has more information on how to make and use a cloth mask.
This is our new normal for now. As I have stated before, we all have a part to play and it is very important that people take this seriously and do their part.”
UPDATE: Union County Nursing Home patient tests positive for COVID-19
Health, News April 25, 2020
UPDATE: April 27
BLAIRSVILLE, Ga – In the April 27 Georgia Department of Community Health Long-Term Care Facility Report, it added a confirmed positive patient case in the Union County Nursing Home.
Previously, the government agency also listed a UCHS employee as positive for COVID-19. The April 27 data also increased the resident census to 140 residents.
Testing has become more available throughout Georgia, which will likely result in an increase in cases across the state.
Chatuge Regional Nursing Home also has one confirmed patient and one confirmed employee case.
Original Story Below
BLAIRSVILLE, Ga – The Georgia Department of Community Health reported that one Union County Nursing Home Employee has tested positive for COVID-19.
As of April 24, no nursing home residents are listed as positive for COVID-19. However, a patient in Chatuge Regional Nursing Home was confirmed as positive on April 24.
Union County Nursing Home accommodates 138 residents according to community health. Chatuge Regional is home to 108 residents.
Union General Health System (UGHS) now has two confirmed employee cases since April 10 – one in Towns and one in Union. The health system’s policy doesn’t allow them to discuss employee or patient matters.
Both facilities previously closed the buildings to visitors and limited meals to in-room dining. UGHS has assured Fetch Your News multiple times that the system follows all CDC protocols for the COVID-19 pandemic.
Residents in both nursing homes are considered high-risk by the CDC and W.H.O. Several long-term care facilities across the country have been ravaged by COVID-19 including ones in Athens and Macon, Ga.
The CDC website stated that older patients may not exhibit typical COVID-19 symptoms, “such as fever or respiratory symptoms. Atypical symptoms may include new or worsening malaise, new dizziness, or diarrhea. Identification of these symptoms should prompt isolation and further evaluation for COVID-19.”
National Guard with Union County Nursing Home Staff, courtesy of nursing home.
The National Guard first visited Union County Nursing Home on April 22 to begin cleaning out the facility and will continue to sanitize the system’s buildings throughout weekend.
Once COVID-19 enters a facility, the CDC guidelines recommend “restricting all residents to their rooms and having HCP wear all recommended PPE for care of all residents (regardless of symptoms) on the affected unit (or facility-wide depending on the situation). This includes: an N95 or higher-level respirator (or facemask if a respirator is not available), eye protection, gloves, and gown. HCP should be trained on PPE use including putting it on and taking it off.”
With the high risk of unrecognized infection among residents, everyone in the facility must follow the outlined measures. Experience with the virus suggests that a “substantial proportion of residents could have COVID-19 without reporting symptoms or before symptoms develop.”
Facilities also are recommended to have a separate area to care for patients confirmed or suspected of having COVID-19. Ill residents must be checked at least three times daily to quickly determine if the level of care must be escalated.
The public health can assist in making decisions about testing asymptomatic residents.
Neighboring Long-Term Care Facilities with Confirmed COVID-19 Cases
The Blue Ridge Assisted Living and Memory Care facility has two employees who tested positive for COVID-19.
Pruitt Health Blue Ridge has one positive patient.
Dahlonega Assisted Living and Memory Care has one positive employee.
Please keep all these individuals and residents of nursing homes and assisted living facilities in your thoughts and prayers are this time.
Free testing available from Public Health in Gainesville on May 1
Press Release April 28, 2020
GAINESVILLE, GA – On Friday, May 1, District 2 Public Health will join the Georgia Mountain Food Bank to offer free food distribution to residents. The event will be held at the lower field at Allen Creek Soccer Complex in Hall County. One package of food per car can be picked up between 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. or until supplies run out. In addition, public health will be on hand to assist anyone who is sick to register for an appointment for free testing for Covid-19.
Allen Creek Soccer Complex is located at 2500 Allen Creek Rd, Gainesville, GA 30507.
Towns and Union County residents, who don’t want to drive across the mountain, can take advantage of the drive-up testing location at the Towns County Health Department. Please call ahead to make an appointment, the Towns’ number is (706) 896-2265. Union’s number is (706) 745-6292. This isn’t part of the May 1 event, just a full-time testing site to serve the community.
If you are sick now, call 770-531-5600 to schedule an appointment for free testing. The call center is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. and on Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. You must have an appointment to be tested. Also, a package of food will be given to each vehicle at the testing site while supplies last.
Decision yet to be made concerning 2020 UCHS and Woody Gap graduation
Board of Education, Community April 21, 2020
BLAIRSVILLE, Ga – During the April 2020 board of education meeting, Superintendent John Hill revealed that Union County High School and Woody Gap principals and graduation committees would prefer to wait until closer to May 22 before finalizing 2020 commencement ceremonies.
COVID-19 outbreak has resulted in school districts across the state thinking outside the box regarding graduation.
“No decision has been made at this time concerning graduation,” said Hill. “Mr. Hussion and Mrs. Knight, along with their graduation committees, have held multiple meetings to discuss all options available to our students – the graduates, the class of 2020.”
Hill affirmed his and the committees’ belief that the correct thing to do is to create several ceremony options, but not decide until closer to graduation.
Some North Georgia school districts have announced commencement plans already. Towns County has pushed the date out until July 31 while White County plans to host a drive-in ceremony on May 22.
“As we have seen over the past few weeks, our situation is very fluid, and it’s changing almost on a daily basis,” explained the superintendent.
The committees will have several graduation ceremony possibilities prepared and make a choice based on the state and federal guidelines in place in May.
“Be patient with us, know that we’re working on this diligently,” Hill stated. “We’re monitoring the situation, and folks are doing a lot of work in the background to prepare for whatever situation [that] we’re in come graduation time. One thing you can be sure of, it’ll be the best decision we can make for these kids to have a fantastic graduation.”
Hill also took the time to thank everyone in the Union County School system and how they came together during the COVID-19 pandemic to serve their students.
The board met via Zoom for the April 2020 meeting.
“You are serving as a board member, in my humble opinion, the premier school district in Georgia. I take this one to the bank. Our employees have led the way for our nation in how this should happen, and how folks should take care of each other and make sure all students are taken care of. It’s been a great success,” declared Hill.
UCS Nutrition Department has prepared meals for children in Union County since Gov. Kemp first closed schools, and the UCS police department, Transportation, and other faculty also aided in delivering meals to those in need. Currently, the school is delivering around 20,000 meals a week.
Teachers, paraprofessionals, special educators, speech-language pathologists, and more have all learned how to navigate virtual learning as well as making themselves available at any time of day to ensure “success for all students.”
Georgia Dept. of Labor addresses unemployment options
Press Release, State & National April 22, 2020
Atlanta, GA – Governor Brian P. Kemp and the Georgia Department of Labor are partnering to ensure Georgians understand their unemployment options as the state begins the safe reopening of businesses. Governor Kemp announced plans Monday to safely and incrementally reopen sectors of the economy, and today, Labor Commissioner Mark Butler encouraged employers to work with employees to determine a successful return to work plan.
“Thanks to Governor Kemp and his support, we were able to issue an emergency rule that increased the earnings exemption amount from $55 to $300 allowing individuals to make $300 a week without reducing their weekly benefit amount,” said Commissioner Butler. “If a business opens back up slowly and their employees are returning to work with reduced hours, employers can continue to file employer-filed partial claims on behalf of their employees.”
Pursuant to the emergency rule issued on March 26, 2020, an individual can make up to $300 per week without reducing their maximum weekly benefit amount, allowing employees to work reduced hours and still qualify for state weekly benefits and the federal $600 weekly supplement.
“As we take measured steps to reopen sectors of our state’s economy, it is vital that we continue to support Georgians trying to re-enter the workforce,” said Governor Kemp. “Commissioner Butler and the Department of Labor are working around the clock to do just that. Their action under historic circumstances will continue to give our state’s workforce viable options to put food on the table for their families as we fight COVID-19 together.”
Employer-filed partial claims account for 75 percent of the state’s 1.1 million claims since March 14. Employers are required to report an individual’s weekly gross wages when certifying on behalf of the employee with the GDOL. These employer-filed partial claims can include full-time and part-time employees, as long as employers are accurately reporting an individual’s weekly wages. An employer’s account will not be charged for claims filed against it for employer-filed partial claims during this time.
“Despite claims to the contrary, returning to work does not automatically eliminate an individual’s state unemployment eligibility,” said Butler. “In fact, we designed this provision to encourage employers to continue to file while returning employees to work to take advantage of the CARES Act (Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security) benefits.”
The rule states that earnings of $300 or less will not affect entitlement to benefits. Any amount over $300 will be deducted from a claimant’s weekly benefit amount, a payment determination based on an employee’s past wages. As long as a claimant is awarded at least $1 in state benefits, he or she is eligible to receive Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC), the additional $600 weekly payment.
“This option was created with lower wage employees in mind,” said Butler. “Allowing Georgians to supplement their income by making an additional $300 or so a week while continuing to receive state benefits, and now the federal supplement, will allow them to continue to heal from the economic wounds brought about by COVID-19.”
If a decision is made by an employee to separate from his/her place of employment, the employee has the right to file an individual claim where an eligibility determination will be made based on the facts presented in the case.
“If an employee is concerned about returning to work due to exposure to COVID-19, we are encouraging employees to communicate with their employers on plans to safely return to work,” explained Butler. “We are all working together on getting Georgians back to work in a safe and stable environment.”
Information on filing an individual unemployment claim, details on how employers must file employer-filed partial claims, and resources for other reemployment assistance can be found on the agency’s webpage at www.gdol.ga.gov.
Union County Schools establish end of year plans
Board of Education, State & National April 2, 2020
BLAIRSVILLE, Ga – Union County Schools issued a statement concerning the end of the school year and parents/ students’ options from May 11 to May 22.
Students who have demonstrated proficiency in their course work by May 8 will have the option to continue their educational enrichment from May 11 until May 22. Otherwise, their online instruction will end on Friday, May 8.
However, students who need remedial assistance will receive “individualized instruction” through the end of the year to prepare for the upcoming year.
Students will be notified of their proficiency by 3 p.m. on May 8. Upcoming teacher in-service days are May 7 and 8, so some students last full-school day will be May 6, unless their education continues through to May 22.
Principals will be sending out more information in the coming days and weeks. Each student and will receive specialized curriculum to ensure standards are met.
“Our team has worked several weeks to put together a curriculum plan that will best serve all students and families in our community as we finish the year out together,” said Superintendent John Hill in his published statement.
Statement from Superintendent John Hill concerning the remainder of the 2019-2020 school year.
More information about Gov. Kemp’s decision to close schools below:
ATLANTA, Ga – Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp signed Executive Order 04.01.20.01 to close all public-school facilities through the end of the school year.
Kemp announced the order on April 1, along with his decision to implement a shelter in place directive until April 13. He first closed public K-12 schools on March 31 and had since extended the order until April 24.
The order applies to all elementary, secondary, and post-secondary public education facilities in order to stop the spread of COVID-19 in Georgia communities. As of April 1, the week of April 23 is predicted to be the tipping point in the Georgia outbreak.
Online learning will continue, and local school districts can determine the final day of classes. Also, faculty and staff can return to their classrooms once school districts determine it is safe for employees to enter the campus.
Georgia Department of Public Health and Department of Education are taking measures to ensure the nutrition and safety needs of students are being met during this time.
A testing waiver for public schools was approved earlier in the year. No student will take Georgia Milestones.
This order does not apply to the University System of Georgia or the Technical College System of Georgia. The Chancellor of the University System and Commissioner of the Technical College System reserve the right to make decisions about their respective campuses across Georgia.
Georgia Board of Cosmetology and Barbers Issues Safety Guidelines for Reopening
Press Release, State & National April 22, 2020
Atlanta, GA – Georgia State Board of Cosmetology and Barbers issued guidance for the safe reopening of Georgia’s salons and spas.
“I deeply appreciate the work of Kay Kendrick and the Georgia State Board of Cosmetology and Barbers to prepare guidelines for implementation by Georgia’s shops and salons,” said Governor Brian Kemp. “As we begin the process of safely reopening our economy, it is critical that business owners, operators, and contractors adhere strictly to increased safety and sanitation guidelines to mitigate the spread of COVID-19. Working together, I am confident that we can get these sectors back online and work to ensure the health and safety of all Georgians.”
“I am very happy that Governor Kemp decided that we can reopen our salons and spas,” said Kay Kendrick, chair of the Georgia State Board of Cosmetology and Barbers. “We have 95,000 licensees under our board, most of whom are independent contractors that have no other source of income.
“Under our sanitation laws and rules, we are charged with the responsibility of protecting consumers from the spread of contagious diseases everyday in our salons. By adding the safety guidelines that have been developed by the board and some of our industry leaders in the cosmetology and barber profession, we feel that our professionals will be able to do an even better job of protecting themselves and their clients. I trust that all our professionals will use these guidelines to be safe and protect their clients. “
Salon/shop owners and managers should use the OSHA “Guidance on Preparing Workplaces for COVID-19” as a guide for reopening. Below are some of the top-level guidelines for salon and spa operators to follow. The complete list of guidelines will be available here.
Temperature Checks: Salons should consider use of a touchless infrared thermometer to check the temperature of employees each day and of each client who enters the salon/shop.
Screening Questions: Ask each client entering the shop the following questions – Have you had a cough? Have you had a fever? Have you been around anyone exhibiting these symptoms within the past 14 days? Are you living with anyone who is sick or quarantined?
Limit People In Shops/Salons: Salons/shops should consider seeing clients by appointment only. Salons/shops should consider telephonic or online scheduling. Limit the number of persons in the waiting area of the salon/shop. It is recommended that clients wait outside the salon/shop in their vehicle until the cosmetologist or barber is ready to serve them. It is recommended that persons not being serviced in the salon/shop wait outside the salon/shop.
Maintain Social Distancing: Spacing between persons in the salon should be at least six feet at all times. Salons/shops should consider additional spacing between booths, divider shields, and/or alternate work schedules.
Use of Personal Protective Equipment and Best Practices: Salon/shop employees will be required to wear masks at all times. Salons may want to consider providing masks to clients. Clients should wear face masks to the extent possible while receiving services. Salons/shops should also make use of face shields, gloves, disposable or re-washable capes, smocks, neck strips, etc. These items should be disinfected or disposed of between each client. Employees should should arrive at the salon/shop showered and wearing clean clothing and change clothes before leaving the salon/shop each day. Hand washing with soap and warm water, for a minimum of 20 seconds will be required by employees between every client service.
Disinfection: All salons/shops should be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected prior to reopening. Disinfect all surfaces, tools, and linens, even if they were cleaned before the salon/shop was closed. Salons/shops should maintain regular disinfection of all tools, shampoo bowls, pedicure bowls, workstations, treatment rooms, and restrooms. Additionally, salons/shops should remove all unnecessary items (magazines, newspapers, service menus, and any other unnecessary paper products/decor) from reception areas and ensure that these areas and regularly touched surfaces are consistently wiped down, disinfected, and that hand sanitizer is readily available to clients and staff. Avoiding the exchange of cash can help in preventing the spread of the virus, but if this is unavoidable, be sure to wash and sanitize hands well after each transaction. The use of credit/debit transactions is preferred, using touch/swipe/no signature technology.
Administration: Employees who are sick will be expected to stay home. Salon/shop owners/managers should provide training, educational materials, and reinforcement on proper sanitation, hand washing, cough and sneeze etiquette, use of PPE, and other protective behaviors. Ensure break rooms are thoroughly cleaned and sanitized and not used for congregating by employees. Be flexible with work schedules/salon hours to reduce the number of people (employees and clients) in salons/shops at all times in order to maintain social distancing.
A full list of these guidelines will be made available on the Georgia State Board of Cosmetology and Barbers’ website.
COVID-19: How to behave if you get sick
Community, Press Release, UCFD April 16, 2020
BLAIRSVILLE, Ga – Union County EMA (UCEMA) offered details about how to properly care for oneself and others if potentially exposed to COVID-19.
The number of confirmed cases in Union County has grown over the past week and will likely continue to spread. So, people should consider the following:
“The first thing is to know the signs and symptoms of COVID-19. People who have been ill from this virus have reported that the symptoms can range from mild to severe. Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure and most consist of flu-like symptoms such as fever, cough, and shortness of breath.
If someone has any of these symptoms, they must stay home and contact their doctor by phone immediately. They should not show up at the doctor’s office or the emergency room without calling. If someone does not have a doctor, they may contact the health department. The doctor or the health department will provide guidance as to what to do. This may or may not involve testing. People should not call 911 or go to the emergency room unless it is a true emergency.
There are two terms that people must be familiar with if they have been exposed or if they are sick. The terms are Quarantine and Isolation. Most people believe that they are on quarantine right now due to the shelter in place order, however, shelter in place means that you shouldn’t go out unless it is necessary.
Quarantine is used when a person may have been exposed to the virus. A healthcare provider or official may ask a person to quarantine. This means the person must remain at home for a period of fourteen days from the last known exposure or until test results come back. At their home, they must monitor for signs and symptoms of COVID-19 which includes monitoring temperature twice per day. If they develop a fever of 100.4 Fahrenheit or higher or develop signs and symptoms, then they must contact their doctor.
Isolation is another term that many people do not understand. Isolation means that a person has a positive test result, or their symptoms strongly suggest that they are positive. In this event, a person must go home, isolate themselves from everyone, and stay there until the symptoms are gone for several days. Most people can treat themselves at home and recover.”
For more information on COVID-19, symptoms, quarantine, isolation and what to do if exposed or sick, visit www.dph.georgia.gov or call the COVID-19 Hotline: (844) 442-2681.
District 2 Public Health announces new testing guidelines
Health, Press Release April 14, 2020
GAINESVILLE, GA – In a press release issued today by District 2 Public Health, it outlines that the state has expanded the testing guidelines to include those without symptoms if they meet certain qualifications.
“District 2 Public Health is ramping up specimen collection to help meet Governor Kemp’s call for increased testing. This is made possible by additional testing supplies, increased laboratory capacity and expanded testing criteria. The new testing guidelines will include these groups:
- Hospitalized patients
- The following people with symptoms:
- Healthcare workers, first responders, and other critical infrastructure workers
- Persons residing in long-term care facilities or other group residential settings
- Persons 65 years of age and older
- Patients with underlying medical conditions
- Household members or caregivers of any of the groups above
- Persons with close contact with a known COVID-19 case
- The following people without symptoms will also be tested as capacity allows:
- Healthcare workers, first responders, and other critical infrastructure workers that have been exposed to COVID-19
- Residents of a long-term care facility or other group residential setting experiencing an outbreak of COVID-19
If you feel that you meet any of these conditions, follow these three simple steps:
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Call your local health department and ask to speak to a nurse about COVID-19 testing.
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The nurse will review your situation and submit your information for verification.
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Public health will call you back to arrange an appointment at the site nearest to you.”
Here’s Fetch Your News’ daily updates of COVID-19 cases in Georgia.
New Guidelines and Resources for High Risk Citizens
Community, News April 15, 2020
Raymond Tidman, MD
Blue Ridge, Ga. – Raymond Tidman, MD and Dillon Miller, MD of Blue Ridge Medical Group are releasing new guidelines to help protect those at greatest risk in our community from contracting Covid-19.
Members of the community that are in the high risk category are those that are 65 years or older, or those with COPD (Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), diabetes, severe obesity, heart disease, receiving treatment for cancer or have a condition that causes immune suppression.
Tidman and Miller are saying to those in this category, “We want you to build protection around you now and until there is a vaccine.”
They are recommending following the directions in place by Health Officials of self isolation, but to also be super aware of those that you allow in your presence. They are recommending that individuals in the high risk category identify a limited number of people you depend on to be around.
Make sure that the people who you do have to have contact with are aware of your situation and take the proper steps to protect you from the virus.
“This is to encourage you to build a virus free fortress around you, and yet allow you the personal contacts that you feel you need and trust,” Tidman and Miller say of the precautions.
Tidman and Miller want all of those who have symptoms or have had known contact to someone positive with the Covid-19 virus to move to the front of the line to be tested.
If you are in this high risk category and have been around someone with symptoms have them contact Blue Ridge Medical Group at this number: 706-946-4240. This is a dedicated line for this purpose and will be frequently monitored.
“If they have symptoms have them contact the number and we will be available to test them quickly,” Tidman and Miller sate in a release. “We will be a resource to them on the latest developments in defeating this virus.”
Author
COVID-19 update from Union County EMA
Community, News, Press Release April 9, 2020
BLAIRSVILLE, Ga – Union County EMA (UCEMA) released an update to it’s Facebook page this week as COVID-19 confirmed cases grow in the community.
“Information on the COVID-19 virus changes at such a rapid pace that it is very difficult to keep up to date. We are attempting to keep everyone informed as to the latest happenings and information. There are cases in just about every county in Georgia, including Union County.
It does not matter how many people have come and gone in Union County; the virus has spread. The furthest, rural counties who do not have beautiful mountains, hiking trails, and vacation homes still have virus spread in their area. That should give you an idea just how easy this virus spreads.
[Union County is] at a critical time. Some studies and models have shown that the number of confirmed cases and deaths in Georgia are on the rise with a peak in late April. That is why slowing down the spread rate is very important. This virus will spread. The risk is real and should be taken very seriously. [The community needs] to slow down the spread in order to not overwhelm our healthcare system. Lives may depend on it.
UCEMA and the public have seen orders and actions from the national government down to the local level. The Governor of Georgia has issued an executive order “To Ensure a Safe & Healthy Georgia” which went into effect on Friday, April 3, 2020. The order is somewhat complicated, and everyone has questions as to what they can do; what they can’t do; and what will stay open or close.
There are too many orders to review in this column but the main points that we want to stress are the social distancing, restrictions on gatherings, sheltering in place, and certain businesses are to close. One quote from the order sums up the state of mind that everyone should have by stating that people should be “taking every possible precaution to limit social interaction to prevent the spread, or infection, of COVID-19 to themselves or any other person”. The complete order can be viewed on the Governor’s website www.gov.georgia.gov.
What UCEMA recommends is that people should stay at home over the next few weeks unless it is necessary to get out. Every activity that takes you from your home and is not necessary, can put you, your family, and your community at risk.
The Union County Emergency Management Agency is continuously working with everyone to meet this threat. They still strongly recommend following the CDC and Georgia Department of Public Health guidelines on how to slow the spread of COVID-19. Please visit www.unioncountyga.gov or call GDPH Hotline at (844) 442-2681.
Kemp suspends short-term vacation rentals, parks remain open
News, State & National April 8, 2020
ATLANTA, Ga – After issuing an extended shelter in place, Gov. Brian Kemp finally instituted a ban on short-term vacation rentals to slow the spread of COVID-19. However, the governor stopped short of closing state parks and beaches despite numerous calls from local governments to do so.
“I have also heard the concerns of many hardworking Georgians, including local elected officials, who fear that our state will become a vacation destination. As a result, and in accordance with public health guidance, I have signed an order to suspend short-term vacation rentals across Georgia,” stated Kemp.
The short-term rental ban identifies vacation rentals as residential properties that can be leased for 30 days or less and can be let by a third-party broker. The licensor is a limited liability corporation, corporation, partnership, person, or any other entity; and the licensee is a private person.
It DOES NOT apply to hotels, motels, campgrounds, extended-stay hotels, commercial transactions, and leases that serve as a person’s primary residence.
Additionally, any rental paid in full by 12:00 a.m. on April 9, 2020, may keep their reservation.
The order won’t prevent people from occupying their personal property.
Law enforcement is authorized to enforce the order, but not to evict anyone in a vacation rental.
Beginning at 12:00 a.m. on April 9, the ban will expire on April 30 at 11:59 p.m.
When asked about the closing of the state parks and beaches, Kemp said only 300 people visited the beaches over the weekend and everyone practiced social distancing.
Earlier in the week, 12 North Georgia Commission Chairmen joined together to ask Kemp to close state parks and the Mayor of Tybee Island also issued a statement expressing his dissatisfaction with Kemp’s decision to open state beaches and park.
As of now, all his state parks reports indicated everyone was following CDC guidelines and he sees no reason to close the parks. Kemp did say he would revisit the issue if he discovers park visitors aren’t practicing social distancing.
Kemp also reasoned that when gyms and other exercise facilities close, people will want to go somewhere to receive physical activity.
Long-Term Care Update
Except from Kemp’s speech:
“The Georgia Department of Public Health has determined that COVID-19 is spreading through nursing homes, inpatient hospice, assisted living communities, personal care homes, intermediate care homes, community living arrangements, and community integration homes. We have dramatically increased access to resources to these facilities to mitigate exposure, but we have to do more to protect these Georgians.
“Earlier today, I signed an executive order extending Georgia’s public health state of emergency through May 13, 2020. This measure will allow us to deploy more resources to communities in need, lend support to frontline medical providers, and keep preparing as we brace for potential patient surge in our healthcare facilities. I appreciate Lt. Governor Duncan, Speaker Ralston, and the General Assembly for working with us to ensure resources are available to proactively respond to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“This afternoon, I also signed an executive order mandating more aggressive infection control measures at long-term care facilities across Georgia. I’ll outline a few, key requirements. Facilities must adopt infectious disease transfer protocols with nearby hospitals. Visitors and non-essential personnel are strictly prohibited except in compassionate care situations. If feasible, these facilities must provide in-room dining services, and all group activities are canceled. Employees must wash or sanitize their hands after any interaction with a resident. Facilities must implement protocols to screen residents for fever and respiratory symptoms, and employees must be screened before starting a shift. If an employee is exposed, to the extent feasible, he or she must self-quarantine for fourteen days before returning to work. Facilities are required to implement universal and correct use of personal protective equipment, and we stand ready to coordinate delivery of supplies. Facilities must utilize hospital-grade disinfectants for frequent cleaning. If possible, residents with symptoms of respiratory infection need to be placed together, and facilities should have specific employees working only on affected units. To ensure compliance, I am empowering the Department of Public Health, National Guard, and Department of Community Health to issue directives to facilities to prevent, monitor, and treat COVID-19.
“Today, I am also signing an executive order to activate 1,000 additional National Guard members to assist in COVID-19 emergency response.
“In accordance with public health recommendations, I am also extending the statewide shelter in place order through April 30, 2020. All of the provisions of the statewide shelter in place order will remain in effect. I want to thank everyone who followed these directives, and I appreciate your patience.”
Georgia Primary moves to June 9 after extension of public health emergency
Press Release, State & National April 9, 2020
(ATLANTA) — Today, Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger announced that, pursuant to the authority vested in him by O.C.G.A. § 21-2-50.1, he is postponing the Statewide General Primary/Presidential Preference Primary Election until June 9, 2020.
Yesterday, Governor Brian Kemp extended the current public health state of emergency until May 13, 2020. Lieutenant Governor Geoff Duncan and Speaker of the House David Ralston concurred in the Governor’s extension of the state of emergency.
“Due to the Governor’s extension of the state of emergency through a time period that includes almost every day of in-person voting for an election on May 19, and after careful consideration, I am now comfortable exercising the authority vested in me by Georgia law to postpone the primary election until June 9,” said Secretary Raffensperger. “This decision allows our office and county election officials to continue to put in place contingency plans to ensure that voting can be safe and secure when in-person voting begins and prioritizes the health and safety of voters, county election officials, and poll workers.”
Throughout this crisis, the Secretary of State’s office has been in close contact with county election officials across the state. Over the past week, the reports of mounting difficulties from county election officials, particularly in Southwest Georgia, grew to a point where county election officials could not overcome the challenges brought on by COVID-19 in time for in-person voting to begin on April 27. Additionally, current modeling by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and by the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation projects the COVID-19 pandemic in Georgia will peak around April 24, only days before in-person voting was scheduled to begin. While challenges will certainly remain on June 9, these additional three weeks will give the Secretary of State’s office and counties time to shore up contingency plans, find and train additional poll workers, and procure supplies and equipment necessary to clean equipment and protect poll workers.
Emergency authority is something that should be exercised carefully, and moving an election should only take place in the rarest of circumstances. While Secretary Raffensperger previously expressed concern that he did not have the authority to move the primary election again, the Governor’s extension of the state of emergency to a time that includes almost every day of in-person voting for a May 19 election is sufficient to allow the Secretary to exercise the emergency authority given to him by O.C.G.A. § 21-2-50.1 and move the primary election to June 9.
“I certainly realize that every difficulty will not be completely solved by the time in-person voting begins for the June 9 election, but elections must happen even in less than ideal circumstances,” said Raffensperger. “Just like our brave healthcare workers and first responders, our county election officials and poll workers are undertaking work critical to our democracy, and they will continue to do this critical work with all the challenges that the current crisis has brought forth. This postponement allows us to provide additional protection and safety resources to county election officials, poll workers, and voters without affecting the November election.”
Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger
The voter registration deadline for the June 9, 2020 election will be May 11, 2020. Early voting will begin on May 18, 2020. Pursuant to O.C.G.A. § 21-2-501, moving the primary election to June 9, 2020 will move the primary runoff to August 11, 2020.Pushing back the primary to June 9 gives Georgia election officials additional time to put in place contingency plans to allow for safe and secure voting, but pushing back the primary election any further could potentially have negative consequences on preparation for the November 3, 2020 General Election. Given existing deadlines to prepare and send ballots for the November election, particularly for military voters, moving forward on June 9 is the best way to ensure a successful election year in Georgia.
Absentee ballot applications for the upcoming primary election will continue to be accepted and processed by counties even if the application said May 19. Once county election officials properly verify the signature on the application, the voter will be sent an absentee ballot for the primary election now to be held on June 9.
Kemp and DECAL issue statement concerning essential travel
Press Release, State & National April 8, 2020
Atlanta, GA – Governor Brian P. Kemp and Amy M. Jacobs, Commissioner of the Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning (DECAL), issued the following joint statement regarding measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19 while ensuring that our state’s essential workforce has access to licensed childcare.
“On Thursday, April 2, 2020, the Executive Order to Ensure a Safe & Healthy Georgia – commonly called the shelter-in-place order – was issued. The order became effective beginning Friday, April 3 at 6:00 PM and is set to expire Monday, April 13 at 11:59 PM. This order allows all licensed childcare facilities to remain open subject to certain restrictions, including social distancing and sanitation.
“We have received recent reports of law enforcement stopping people to ask for a letter authorizing their travel. The Executive Order to Ensure a Safe & Healthy Georgia does not require any worker to carry an authorization letter on Georgia’s roads. As a result, the order allows for any necessary travel by workers and families to and from a childcare facility during this public health emergency.
“Parents with children in private childcare represent Georgia’s hardworking families with jobs that are critical to supporting themselves and the larger community. Essential workers such as nurses, doctors, first responders, and state and municipal employees rely on childcare to allow them to perform the critical functions so desperately needed in a public health emergency. From the fireman to the stocker at the grocery store, without access to quality, licensed childcare, many of these workers would be forced to stay home, putting further stress on the system responding to this pandemic.
“Continuing to work closely with the Governor’s Office, Georgia Department of Public Health, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, DECAL is prepared to lead our state’s efforts in assisting our youngest children and their families through this unprecedented time. We will continue partnering with the childcare industry and advocates of early childhood education to creatively address the challenges we face now and the new challenges that will emerge going forward.
How is the DPH handling COVID-19 contact tracing?
Health, News April 6, 2020
BLAIRSVILLE, Ga – All of North Georgia now has at least one Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) confirmed COVID-19 case. DPH is also responsible for notifying individuals who encountered COVID-19 patients so they can isolate or receive testing.
After a lab relays a positive test to DPH, “local epidemiologist or public health nurse will start a contact investigation by calling the person who tested positive for the disease,” explained Public Health District Two MPH, Dave Palmer. District Two included Union, Towns, Rabun, White, Lumpkin, Dawson, Habersham, Stephens, Hall, Hart, Banks, Franklin, and Forsyth.
DPH Districts throughout Georgia.
If an individual can’t answer or is a minor, then family members can answer the questions. The line of questioning includes how a person could have been exposed to the virus as well as who else might have been unknowingly subjected to COVID-19.
Currently, the only people being notified are those who had immediate and prolonged contact with a confirmed COVID-19 case. In other words, they came within six feet or less and had more than 10 minutes of interaction. Symptomatic individuals will be directed to isolate, and asymptomatic people will be asked to quarantine. As scientists and epidemiologists, learn more about the virus, these recommendations could change.
Fetch Your News (FYN) asked about tourists who visited North Georgia, and then test positive once returning home.
Palmer stated that DPH relies on information provided by patients about where they had been recently, and he reiterated that only individuals with prolonged exposure would be contacted by DPH epidemiologists.
Additionally, he said, “There should not be any tourism per the governor’s shelter in place order. There should be no public gatherings. People out in public should only be there for essential reasons, food, banking, etc. and should be practicing social distancing.”
DPH Administrative Order on Public Health Control Measures, issued on March 23, instructs:
“Each isolated person shall avoid unnecessary physical contact with any and all persons and shall comply fully with the Isolation Protocol attached to this Order, which may be updated from time to time based on guidance from the Centers from Disease Control and Prevention.”
See entire order here: administrative_order_of_commissioner_i_q_amended_3.23.20_003-01 (1) (2)
The Isolation Protocol, last updated on April 1, details best practices for positive individuals who treat themselves in the home. In short, these patients should do their best to separate from all inhabitants of the house, including pets, ensure surfaces remain clean, and don’t share commonly used household items.
According to DPH, isolation can end once:
- The patient hasn’t had a fever for at least 72 hours (that is, three full days of no fever without the use of a fever-reducing medicine); AND
- Other symptoms, such as cough and shortness of breath, have improved; AND
- At least 7 days have passed since symptoms first appeared.
If placed under home isolation due to a laboratory-confirmed positive test result but have experienced no symptoms of COVID-19, patients may discontinue home isolation when at least 7 days have passed since the date of the first positive diagnostic test.
See entire isolation protocol here: covid-19_isolation_protocol_.revised_4.1.20_exhibit_to_ao (1)
Quarantined individuals or those identified as most likely to result in infection must remain in their homes for 14 days since last exposure to COVID-19. According to the DPH Administrative Order on Public Health Control Measures:
“During the period of quarantine, the quarantined person shall take his or her temperature twice per day and monitor any symptoms of respiratory illness. If at any time the quarantined person’s temperature is above 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit, or if the quarantined person experiences cough or shortness of breath, the quarantined person shall be considered a person with suspected COVID-19 and shall follow the requirements for isolation.”
FYN also asked if DPH would issue press releases or notify the public in some manner if a patient admitted to attending a public event. Palmer stated, “Because the virus is spreading, we are not issuing press releases about cases – they are reflected on the GDPH website.” He also added that no one should be attending public gatherings under the shelter in place order.
Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests temporarily shuts down additional recreation areas
Press Release, State & National April 3, 2020
The Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests is temporarily shutting down additional recreation sites on the Chattahoochee National Forest to protect public health and safety.
The decision aligns with state and local measures to stop the spread of COVID-19, and guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
“We continually consult leaders in our communities, in order to align with local, state, and federal decisions that protect public health and safety,” said Edward Hunter, Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests’ acting forest supervisor. “We aim to implement the highest standard of public health and safety.”
Effective immediately, the following recreation sites are temporarily shut down:
Rabun County
- Hemlock Falls Trail and Trailhead, Parking Area
- Minnehaha Falls Trail and Trailhead
Towns County
- Indian Grave Gap Road (Forest Service Road #283)
White County
- Smith Creek Trail and Trailhead
- White Oak Gap Road (Forest Service Road #244)
Previously announced shutdowns include:
- All national forest developed campgrounds, group recreation sites, picnic pavilions, and all restrooms.
- Appalachian Trail trailheads including Dicks Creek Gap, Hogpen Gap, Neels Gap, Springer Mountain, Tesnatee Gap, Unicoi Gap, and Woody Gap.
- Trails and associated trailheads providing access to the Appalachian Trail including Andrews Cove Trail, segments of the Benton MacKaye Trail (from Fall Branch Falls to Springer Mountain), Byron Herbert Reece Memorial Trail, Dukes Creek Falls Trails, Duncan Ridge Trail, Dockery Lake Trail, Freeman Trail, Jacks Knob Trail, Jarrard Gap Trail, Logan Turnpike Trail, Long Creek Falls Trail, Panther Creek Falls Trail, Slaughter Creek Trail, Springer Mountain Trail, Raven Cliffs Falls Trail, and Yonah Mountain Trail.
Fannin County
• Aska Trail System
• Shady Falls Trailhead
• Long Branch Loop Trail
• Green Mtn. Connector Trail
• Deep Gap Trailhead
• Green Mtn. Trail
• Stanley Gap Trailhead
• Stanley Gap Trail
• Fruitkoff Trail Access
• Deep Hole Day Use Area
• Sandy Bottoms Day Use Area
• Old Dial Rd. and Padena Dispersed Camping
• Rock Creek Rd. Dispersed Camping
• Noontootla Dispersed Camping (FS 58)
• Sea Creek Falls Trail
Union County
• Helton Creek Falls Trail
Lumpkin County
• Dicks Creek Dispersed Camping Corridor
• Forest Service Road 42 Dispersed Camping Corridor (runs through Gilmer, Fannin, Lumpkin)
• Nimblewill Dispersed Camping Corridor
• Jake and Bull Dispersed Campsites (trail use allowed)
Towns County
• High Shoals Falls Trail
Guidelines for health and safety, recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), are available at: www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/about/prevention.html.
The latest information about recreation sites is available at www.fs.usda.gov/conf, also on Facebook and Twitter at @ChattOconeeNF.