State of the county following COVID-19 shutdowns
Community, Health May 27, 2020
UNION COUNTY, Ga – Sole Commissioner Lamar Paris gave a brief update on how Union County is faring while many residents try to find a sense of normalcy.
Over the course of approximately one month, Union County’s cases grew by 20. Out of the 43, only eleven of those patients needed hospitalization and one death. Union General Hospital had one active patient as of May 22. Previously, multiple beds were occupied by COVID-19 patients.
“We’re very fortunate up here,” stated Paris. “The fact that we’ve only got one in the hospital is a great sign. Does that mean we’re only going to have one? No. Does it mean we’re out of the woods yet? No. But we feel that what we have done in the county is very preventative.”
The commissioner added that those over 65 and with preexisting conditions are still under the Gov. Kemp’s stay at home order until June 13.
“We just have to remember that this thing still is serious. My concern going forward is people are going to – like me, like all of us – are just tired of it. Just like wearing [masks] or not wearing [it],” expressed Paris.
He wanted everyone to continue to be cautious and follow social distancing. He did encourage masks wearing in public areas and to use common sense to try and flatten the curve.
“Employees at those stores are the ones who really notice it. They feel like if you don’t wear one, then you’re not concerned about protecting them,” said Paris.
Whether or not to open the Meeks Park pool is currently being debated because current COVID-19 protocols limit use to 50 people at one time. Also, all chairs must be disinfected each time the person using one leaves the facility. If the county decides to open, it might have to hire someone to sanitize all surfaces in and around the pool.
“It’s not only what you’re going to do and how you’re going to do it, but it’s what’s the governor’s going to do. Is he going to loosen the guidelines or tighten the guidelines?” Paris commented on the rapidly evolving situation.
On a positive note, county sales tax revenue for April is slightly up from the same time last year. However, this isn’t expected to last. Also, the state still must unveil its 14 percent budget cuts, which will affect some areas of the county.
The city of Blairsville reported tax revenue numbers similar to last year as well. Currently, COVID-19 hasn’t significantly impacted the city’s budget, but again these numbers could change as the year progresses.
Across the board, it’s too early to determine the financial impact of COVID-19.
Georgia DPH distributes Remdesivir to hospitals for treatment of COVID-19
Health, Press Release May 18, 2020
Atlanta – The Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) is distributing an initial allotment of the drug Remdesivir received from the federal government. Georgia received 30 cases, with 40 vials of the drug per case, enough to treat about 110 patients, depending on the duration of an individual’s treatment. Remdesivir is an antiviral medicine being used to treat hospitalized patients with serious symptoms caused by COVID-19 like low oxygen levels or pneumonia. It has been found to shorten the duration of disease in patients being treated in inpatient hospital settings.
Remdesivir is given intravenously (IV) and decreases the amount of coronavirus in the body, helping patients recover faster.
The distribution plan for Remdesivir in Georgia was developed by DPH leadership, including district health directors and emergency preparedness staff, in accordance with Food and Drug Administration (FDA) guidelines for its use. It is based on the number of patients on ventilators, the most severely ill, and clinical best practices.
Georgia hospitals receiving Remdesivir reported 10 or more COVID-19 positive patients on ventilators, in addition to patients currently being treated with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), a machine that takes over the work of the heart and lungs. These criteria are subject to change based on the availability of Remdesivir and
the development of patient care at hospital facilities across the state.
The following hospitals are receiving Remdesivir; Tift Regional Medical Center, Northeast Georgia Medical Center, Wellstar Kennestone Hospital, Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital, Grady Health System, Emory University Hospital, Emory University Hospital Midtown, and Augusta University Medical Center.
“DPH is pleased to have the opportunity to share this promising treatment with hospitals on the front lines in the fight against COVID-19,” said Kathleen E. Toomey, M.D., M.P.H., DPH commissioner. “While this drug is not a cure for COVID-19, getting it into the hospitals and improving patient outcomes is moving in the right direction.”
Georgia has received a second, much larger allotment of Remdesivir. DPH is surveying hospitals statewide over the weekend to determine need. This second allotment will be distributed next week.
Gilead Sciences, Inc. committed to supplying approximately 607,000 vials of the experimental drug over the next six weeks to treat an estimated 78,000 hospitalized COVID-19 patients under an emergency use agreement (EUA). The donation to the United States is part of 1.5 million vials of Remdesivir the company is donating worldwide.
Remdesivir has not been approved by the FDA for widespread use because it is considered investigational, and it is still being studied. Remdesivir was originally developed for use against Ebola. Clinical trials for Remdesivir were done in Georgia at Emory University Hospital.
For more information about COVID-19 visit https://dph.georgia.gov/novelcoronavirus or https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.
For updates on the COVID-19 situation as it develops, follow @GaDPH, @GeorgiaEMA, and @GovKemp on Twitter, and @GaDPH, @GEMA.OHS, and @GovKemp on Facebook
Kemp changes restaurant and childcare restrictions
Announcements, State & National May 13, 2020
ATLANTA, Ga – On May 12, Gov. Brian Kemp continued to ease restrictions on certain industries – restaurants and childcare – to assist Ga businesses as the state returns to normal.
Childcare facilities now can operate with up to 20 children in a classroom instead of 10 as long as the instructor-to-child ratio is maintained. Departments of Early Care and Learning and Public Health reportedly okayed this expansion and ensured it could be accomplished safely.
Many parents in Ga are returning to work and have encountered difficulty finding childcare services.
“Childcare facilities must continue to adhere to thirteen minimum, mandatory criteria to be able to operate, including strict screening procedures and sanitation mandates for frequently touched items and surfaces. In that same vein, countless families have reached out to my office to discuss how summer camps can safely operate as we battle the spread of COVID-19,” Kemp explained.
Summer day camps have also received the okay to open on May 14 if facilities can meet the 32 requirements developed by the Department of Public Health, constituents, and summer camp operators. The CDC has yet to weigh in on the criteria, but Kemp appeared confident that their plan would move forward.
However, overnight camps are still closed, but eventually, these facilities might be able to open under a case by case basis.
As for restaurants, those who have already opened or considering opening can now allow up to 10 patrons per 300 sq. feet and seat groups of 10. Previously the maximum number at a table was six.
Kemp praised the food industry, “Throughout this pandemic, our restaurant owners and their employees have done a remarkable job in keeping local families fed. These hardworking Georgians have followed the rules, doing the right thing, even when it wasn’t easy.”
Live performance venues, bars, and nightclubs must remain closed through May 31, 2020.
The social distancing and gathering ban on more than 10 people are still in effect unless six feet of separation is possible. The ban applied to all non-critical infrastructure businesses, local governments, and organizations of all types, including social groups, informal get-togethers, and recreational sports, just to name a few. Georgians can expect these protocols to last through at least the end of the month.
“We continue to strongly encourage people to wear face coverings when out in public, and we thank everyone for their willingness to do the right thing,” Kemp added. “The shelter in place provision for medically fragile and Georgians aged 65 and older remains in effect through June 12, 2020.”
Starting on May 18, state agencies will begin transitioning back into in-office services.
As of noon today, Georgia has received its first shipment of Remdesivir from the federal government – thirty cases with forty vials of the drug per case. The Department of Public Health will determine how it will be distributed.
Nursing Home Testing
Georgia’s National Guard has tested 46% of all nursing home residents and 24% of staff at those facilities. However, an estimated 46,000 people who still need to be tested. In total, the Guard has tested 142 nursing homes. The National Guard will continue to test everyone at these facilities until they reach 100 percent.
The press conference did address the re-testing of facilities is new cases are found after the initial testing. Department of Community Health releases daily updates on the status of COVID-19 in nursing homes across Ga.
“As we aggressively test more nursing homes and long-term care facilities, we may see a sharper increase in positive test results. By doing this, it will allow medical providers to intervene earlier and try to mitigate adverse outcomes among vulnerable Georgians. Right now, nursing home, assisted living, and personal care home residents and staff make up 18.5% of our total positive cases, and 49% of total deaths involve nursing home, assisted living, and personal care home residents. We ask everyone to continue to protect the elderly and medically fragile, and we will continue to work around the clock to ensure quick, convenient testing is available for all Georgians,” Kemp explained.
Anyone in Ga can now be tested for COVID-19 either through their local health departments or by downloading the Augusta University ExpressCare app, visit augustahealth.org, or call (706) 721-1852.
“With nearly 250 staff in the field today, the Department of Public Health is making progress. Under the leadership of Dr. Toomey, DPH plans to have 1,000 staff deployed in the coming weeks. To streamline contact tracing across the state, we are rolling out a new online monitoring tool – the Healthy Georgia Collaborative – which allows Georgians to identify contacts and monitor symptoms. Health data remains completely confidential. This monitoring tool does not collect any data other than what is entered by the contact. This is how the process works: residents who test positive for COVID-19 will be contacted by trained public health staff, who will work with that individual to recall anyone that they might’ve had close contact with while infectious. Those contacts will then be interviewed by DPH to help us map and isolate the spread of COVID-19 in communities across the state. If you are contacted by DPH staff, we strongly encourage you to participate in the contact tracing program,” Kemp said about contact tracing.
The governor also urged anyone who needs to visit their doctor for regular appointments or concerns outside of COVID-19 to please do so. Doctors’ offices and emergency rooms have protocols in place to prevent individuals from contracting the virus. Now is not a time to gamble with anyone’s health to avoid COVID-19.
District 2 announces changes in specimen collection sites
Community, Health May 11, 2020
GAINESVILLE, GA – District 2 Public Health announces updates to schedules, testing criteria and specimen collection sites. Previous testing criteria was to test individuals with fever, cough and shortness of breath. Due to new testing criteria from Georgia Department of Public Health District 2 anyone with or without symptoms can now be tested for Covid-19.
The Specimen Point of Collection (SPOC) in Hall County will now operate as follows:
Monday through Friday, 8:30 am to 5:00 pm. The Hall County SPOC is closed on Saturday and Sunday.
A Specimen Point of Collection (SPOC) will be opened at Habersham County Health Department. This site will be open Saturday from 8:30 am to 3:00 pm, and Sunday from 8:30 am to 12:00 pm. The Habersham site will begin operations on Saturday, May 16.
For convenience, we urge residents to call their local health department or the call center to schedule a time to get tested. With an appointment, the average time to get through the SPOC is three to five minutes. All county health departments will continue to schedule appointments during normal business hours, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday. The call center hours are: 8:30 am to 7:00 pm, every day including Saturday and Sunday.
Specimen Collection sites in Franklin and Towns Counties will continue to operate on Tuesday and Friday of each week. Residents can contact the call center above, or call Franklin County Health Department at 706-384-5575, or call Hart County Health Department at 706-376-5117 to schedule testing at the Franklin County Health Department. To schedule testing at the Towns County Health Department, residents can call Towns County Health Department at 706-896-2265, Union County Health Department at 706-745-6292 or Rabun County Health Department at 706-212-0289.
Remember, for your convenience an appointment is needed at each of the Specimen Point of Collection. Please call the call center 770-531-5600 or your local health department to schedule an appointment for testing.
COVID-19 testing available to all Georgians
Press Release May 8, 2020
Atlanta – The Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) has reached its goal of testing 100,000 individuals in 10 days. More than 108,000 tests were processed since Commissioner Kathleen E. Toomey, M.D., M.P.H, set the DPH goal last week.
“This is an important benchmark for Georgia as we work to stop the spread of COVID-19 in the state,” said Toomey. “Increased testing is critical to understanding where there are hotspots of infection and how best to mitigate them.”
Effective immediately, testing is available to all Georgians who request it, whether they have symptoms or not. There are more than 65 specimen point of collection sites (SPOC) throughout the state, with an additional 30 mobile SPOCs – locations and hours vary daily.
Individuals wanting to be tested can contact any Georgia public health department to schedule an appointment at a SPOC location convenient to them. Contact information for local health departments can be found on the DPH homepage at
For more information about COVID-19 visit https://dph.georgia.gov/novelcoronavirus or https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.
For updates on the COVID-19 situation as it develops, follow @GaDPH, @GeorgiaEMA, and @GovKemp on Twitter, and @GaDPH, @GEMA.OHS, and @GovKemp on Facebook.
Beauty industry prepares for life coronavirus
Business, Community May 3, 2020
BLAIRSVILLE, Ga – As salons, restaurants, and boutiques slowly open across Georgia, those in the beauty industry are taking special care to protect their customers.
These businesses can’t maintain the recommended six feet of separation and conduct businesses; stylists often come within inches of clients’ faces to accurately judge the length, cut, or color. It’s physically impossible for individuals who work in this industry to follow all the CDC guidelines. However, one of the biggest complaints from the public during this shutdown was the inability to “keep up with appearances.” Take away hair cuts, acrylics, and tanning beds, some people’s self-esteem starts to decline. The same can be said about social interaction which salons also offer communities.
“They’re desperate for some kind of normalcy, and I’ll [help] to provide it,” stated Amour Beauty Salon and Studio Owner Shannon Hogsed. “In a small salon and small town like we have, our clients are like family to us.”
The spacing of chairs in Amour Salon. Image courtesy of Amour.
Many people have weekly standing appointments with cosmetologists, and several are senior citizens.
Hogsed recounted how one of her customers no longer has a full range of motion in their arms. As a result, they can’t wash or fix their hair without assistance. The client’s been relying on their significant other since the shut down began.
From a sanitation standpoint, local salons are taking multiple steps to promote their clients’ safety. Amour Beauty Salon isn’t allowing walk-ins for at least two weeks, no guests, cleaning after every appointment, clients wait in their cars, staff will have masks, clients will wear masks and gloves into the shop, and staff will take customers temperature. The owner Hogsed added that the stylists’ chairs were already spaced far enough apart to protect clients from anyone else in the shop. She also wants her customers to have spent some of the shutdown in self-imposed quarantine to ensure they don’t have the virus.
In the nail care world, Relax Nail Salon and Spa contractor Dee Dee Dyer uses her previous experience in healthcare to run the business.
“We always practice universal precautions because you never know what’s out there. We have stepped up more on our policies to ensure our clients and personnel are as safe as they can be in the shop,” she said.
Those working in the spa are wearing new gloves for each client and service, face masks, and are eliminating unnecessary points of contact for clients – such as nail polish bottles. The 1,300 square foot facility has separate rooms, so depending on the service, only the client and the beautician will be in a room. A hospital-grade disinfectant is used on every surface and essential oils are diffused to purify the air.
Additionally, the business only books a set number of appointments per day and factoring in 15 to 30 minutes of extra time, so no one overlaps in the waiting area. Clients are also instructed to not show up early for an appointment. Extra people aren’t allowed in.
Inside Sunsations Tanning, multiple rooms are available to customers. Image courtesy of Sunsations.
As for Sunsations Tanning Salon, Brandy Walters has placed six feet markers inside and outside her store. She wears gloves for each appointment and changes them after every appointment. The salon has a stockpile of germicidal as well as Microban sanitizing surface spray for her doorknobs and desk.
“The state already requires me to have a salon-grade bed sanitizer in bottles in each room, plus a goggle sanitation station. Lastly, I will have hand sanitizer in the lobby restroom and each tanning room. Mainly [I’m continuing] what I do on a regular basis with a little more caution for my family, my customers, and their families. I will also be wearing a mask,” explained Walters.
All the businesses urge anyone who might be feeling sick to reschedule or reconsider visiting their salons on that day.
“My only concern is that some clients will become frustrated with a new way of doing things. Walters acknowledged. “With guidelines implemented, I do have faith in my customers that they will be patient and bear with the process until it becomes our new normal from now on possibly.”
Reopening Assistance
The reopening of Georgia also allows all the cosmetologists and technicians contracted at these salons to return to work. Since the predominant business structure in beauty is to “rent a chair” or work as an independent contractor, once the doors close no one receives income. Owners can’t pay rent, and beauticians could lose their license if they break shutdown protocols.
The federal and state government set up plans to assist small businesses and independent contractors in making ends meet during COVID-19. However, only one business Fetch Your News spoke with said they had received any government assistance.
Walters stated, “I did apply a month ago for PPP, Eidl, and unemployment. [I] have not received ANY money or assistance as of yet, nor have I been approved for unemployment. US small business owners were supposed to be ‘first in line’ for assistance. But, we were made wait an extra week before being allowed to apply once it went live. So, we [had to wait] two weeks, and monies ran out.”
Hogsed relayed that she was lucky enough to “put enough by to cover this last month’s expenses,” but she couldn’t get a phone call through to Georgia Department of Labor for small business assistance. She added that the federal loan application was over 50 pages and not easy to understand for most individuals.
Additionally, Hogsed said the money contained a quid pro quo as that it could only be used to keep the business running. It would cover rent, but not hair care products.
Customers won’t be allowed to touch nail polish bottles at Relax Nail Salon. Image courtesy of Relax.
Salons need to purchase new hair color, toner, and various products to efficiently reopen, and Gov. Kemp’s swift decision resulted in limited availability. Hogsed added that even the warehouses currently have reduced stock and are unsure when it will be available. Also, shipments have slowed, so it’s impossible to predict accurate delivery dates.
Dyer of Relax Nail Salon and Spa did receive small business assistance, but it took a month for the funds to arrive. It also wasn’t enough to cover the cost of all her expenses.
“In my opinion, the beauty industry has had a hard time keeping their doors closed. No financial help out there. When we are closed, we are closed, no income.” She acknowledged. “So, to save what we have, we do not have a choice but to reopen. In our community, I feel much safer to start back, and I know the policies I have initiated are the very best I can do. If I were in a large city, I think I would wait longer.”
All three businesses expressed an eagerness from clients to support them once reopen. Some are anticipating a business boom with constant phone calls and promises of new business.
The shutdown has taught Hogsed, Walters, and Dyer to be appreciative of their customers, family, and ability to do what they enjoy.
Hogsed added, “prepare for anything.” She cited her faith that “God is good and merciful” and that He helped her make it through this time.
“This shut down has definitely taught me to never underestimate the power of the unknown and to never be content in knowing your business is doing great – overnight, [it] can change forever. And it’s out of your hands,” closed Walters.
“Being a business owner is actually an act of faith, we never know when something will come along, and we are no more,” Dyer said.
Each one of these women makes a difference in their clients’ lives. It might not always be noticeable, but it leaves an impact. By reopening, their businesses help everyone regain some sense of normalcy as the nation hopefully moves out of the COVID-19 crisis.
Shelter in Place order extended for medically fragile until June 12
Press Release, State & National April 30, 2020
ATLANTA, Ga – Governor Brian P. Kemp signed Executive Order 4.30.20.01 which extends the medically fragile shelter in place and the Public Health State of Emergency until June 12.
The entire statement from the governor is below:
“Tonight at 11:59 PM, the statewide shelter in place order for most Georgians will expire. However, moving forward, I am urging Georgians to continue to stay home whenever possible. I want to thank the people of our great state who heeded public health advice, afforded us time to bolster our healthcare infrastructure, and flattened the curve. We were successful in these efforts, but the fight is far from over.
“In accordance with our executive orders, businesses across the Peach State must continue to operate with strict social distancing and sanitation rules to keep customers and employees safe through May 13, 2020. Those rules vary by business type for a measured, health-driven approach.
“The health and well-being of Georgians are my top priorities, and my decisions are based on data and advice from health officials. I will do what is necessary to protect the lives – and livelihoods – of our people. I will formally extend our public health state of emergency through June 12, 2020, to continue enhanced testing across Georgia, ramp up contact tracing, and maintain effective emergency response operations in every region.
“To protect vulnerable populations, I will sign an order today requiring medically fragile and elderly Georgians to continue to shelter in place through June 12, 2020. In addition, I will order long-term care facilities – including nursing homes, personal care homes, assisted living facilities, and similar community living homes – to utilize enhanced infection control protocols, ensure safer living conditions, and protect residents and staff from coronavirus exposure.
“Together, we will defeat this virus and emerge stronger. Thank you, and God Bless.”
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.”
Blue Angels, Thunderbirds to flyover Atlanta on Saturday
Announcements, State & National May 1, 2020
ATLANTA, Ga – The Blue Angels and Thunderbird flyover on May 2 is in support of the state’s frontline workers in the fight against COVID-19.
It will begin over Marietta at 1:35 p.m. and last 25 minutes, ending at 2 p.m. The Thunderbirds and Blue Angels flight path will take them over Buckhead, Sandy Springs, up to Roswell. The formations will then turn to the south over downtown, Atlanta airport, Fayetteville, and Peachtree City.
Residents are asked to safely view the flyover from their home-quarantine and to refrain from traveling. Social distancing should also be practiced.
Flight path for May 2.
These times are subject to change.
“America Strong is a way for both teams to show appreciation to the thousands of doctors, nurses, first responders, and essential workers out there serving on the frontline day-in and day-out,” said Cmdr. Brian Kesselring, U.S. Navy Blue Angels commanding officer and flight leader for the flyover. “This is an extraordinary and unprecedented time but we will get through this. We are all in this together.”
A formation of 6 F-16C/D Fighting Falcon and 6 F/A-18C/D Hornet aircraft will conduct these flyovers as a collaborative salute to healthcare workers, first responders, military, and other essential personnel while standing in solidarity with all Americans during the COVID-19 pandemic.
This mission, the second of several planned over the coming weeks, is the culmination of more than a month of planning and coordination between the two teams and numerous city and government offices.
The teams welcome and encourage viewers to tag the demonstration teams at @AFThunderbirds and @BlueAngels the flyover on social media with the hashtag #AmericaStrong and #Inthistogether.
For photos and video for America Strong, visit, https://www.dvidshub.net/feature/americastrong.
For more information on the Blue Angels, visit www.blueangels.navy.mil.
For more information on the Thunderbirds, visit www.afthunderbirds.com.
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.