We continue to closely monitor the latest information being provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and county health departments regarding the 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19). We encourage members to visit the CDC website and county websites as primary sources for information. Please also see helpful member resources below.

Members are encouraged to contact Trust staff with any questions or concerns or feel free to use our online Contact Us form for general questions.

On behalf of the DVT staff, we hope all Trust officials, employees, their families, and friends remain safe and healthy during these challenging times.

Updated October 21, 2020 at 8:30 a.m. 

 

• CALL your health care provider if you think you have been exposed to COVID-19 and have a fever, cough or difficulty breathing.
• Your health care provider or government authorities will determine level of risk, provide you with advice & assess whether you should be tested for COVID-19.
• For the most up to date guidance, please visit the Centers for Disease and Prevention Control (CDC) website (https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html) or the Pa. Department of Health website (https://www.health.pa.gov/topics/disease/Pages/Coronavirus.aspx).
• PA Department of Health COVID-19 Symptoms and Testing: https://www.health.pa.gov/topics/disease/coronavirus/Pages/Symptoms-Testing.aspx

Updated October 8, 2020 at 9:00 a.m. –

Employee Assistance Program – The EAP phone number is 877-240-6863. The program is available 24/7 to DVHT and DVWCT members, their spouses, dependent children, parents and parents-in-law at no cost to obtain confidential, short-term counseling for a wide-range of issues including stress and/or anxiety you or a family member may be experiencing as a result of the current COVID-19 outbreak.

Risk Alert – Indoor Air Quality Considerations When Reopening Idled Buildings (Issued May 15, 2020) – This Risk Alert provides facility managers tasked with reopening public buildings practical solutions for addressing potential Legionella, sewer odor and mold concerns.

Risk Alert – COVID-19 Exposure Prevention (Issued April 7, 2020 – replaces version dated March 18, 2020):  This Risk Alert updates prior guidance for public employees and volunteers on how to protect against potential exposure to COVID-19. It includes newly released guidance on wearing cloth face coverings when in public and how to create your own using common household materials.  The guidance for police officers and medical first responders has not changed. The prior Risk Alert dated March 18, 2020 should be deleted.  Please share with your employees, volunteers and all first responders.

Risk Alert – Recommendations for Managing Shortages of Respirators (issued March 26, 2020 )- This Risk Alert offers recommendations for public employers on managing shortages of respirators required to protect employees and volunteers at high risk of close contact with individuals potentially infected with COVID-19.

Risk Alert – Crisis Capacity Strategy for Reuse of Filtering Facepiece Respirators (issued April 6, 2020): This Risk Alert supplements the recommendations contained in our March 26, 2020 Risk Alert, “Recommendations for Managing Shortages of N-95 Respirators”. It describes a CDC-endorsed strategy for quasi-decontamination of filtering facepiece respirators (FFRs) in the event supplies of this critical protective equipment reach crisis levels.

Risk Alert – Injury Prevention When Telecommuting (issued May 4, 2020):  This Risk Alert reviews several of these challenges and proposes practical remedies to optimize safety and productivity when telecommuting.

Guidance for Reopening Buildings After Prolonged Shutdown or Reduced Operation

(Updated: September 22, 2020)

The CDC updated its guidance on managing buildings with limited occupancy due to the COVID-19 emergency.  Hazard addressed include mold, Legionella, and lead and copper contamination.

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/php/building-water-system.html

How COVID-19 Spreads

(Updated: October 5, 2020)

This update from the CDC recognizes recent data suggesting COVID-19 may spread via aerosols in addition to droplets.  While infectious droplets remain airborne for shorter times and have a shorter dispersal path, aerosols in comparison can potentially travel beyond six feet and may remain in the air for several hours after an infected individual has left the area.  Although this revelation has not changed the agency’s fundamental infection control recommendations, the CDC advises to avoid enclosed spaces that have inadequate ventilation and when the infected person was breathing heavily, such as when singing or exercising.

News release:  https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2020/s1005-how-spread-covd.html

Updated infection control recommendations webpage:  https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/how-covid-spreads.html

NCIRD Science brief:  https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/more/scientific-brief-sars-cov-2.html

[DVT Risk Control Department Comment:  In situations when individuals are required to work in high risk COVID-19 spaces, it is recommended that they utilize NIOSH-approved respiratory protection equipment when available, such as an N-95 or better-rated air-purifying respirator.  Eye protection such as glasses, safety glasses, goggles or face shields are also recommended to prevent infectious particles gaining access via the eyes.  Increasing ventilation to the space prior to entry can also be helpful in reducing infectious particle concentrations.  When practical, operate HVAC systems in “purge mode” (i.e., 100% fresh air in), open windows or utilize fans to exhaust the space prior to entering.  Move air from clean areas through contaminated areas and then exhaust to the outside.  Direct potentially contaminated exhaust air away from areas where others are present.]   

COVID-19 Guidance for Businesses

(Updated: October 6, 2020)

The Pa. DOH updated its business occupancy guidelines, including new occupancy limits for outdoor events.  A maximum occupancy calculator has been developed to aid with management decision making.

Webpage: https://www.governor.pa.gov/covid-19/business-guidance/

Maximum Occupancy Calculator:  https://www.health.pa.gov/topics/disease/coronavirus/Pages/Guidance/Event-Occupancy.aspx

COVID-19 Information for Travelers

(Updated October 9, 2020)

The Pa. Department of Health updated its list of states where there are high amounts of COVID-19 cases.  It is recommended that travelers to these locations quarantine for 14 days upon returning to Pennsylvania.

https://www.health.pa.gov/topics/disease/coronavirus/Pages/Travelers.aspx

Trick or Treating and Other Halloween Activities

(Updated: October 9, 2020)

This updated CDC guidance provides recommendations for how to protect yourself and dependents from COVID-19 during upcoming Halloween festivities.

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/holidays/halloween.html

Print Resources

(Updated: October 12, 2020)

The CDC has added education resources to its website for printing, posting or electronic distribution in various settings impacted by COVID-19.

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/communication/print-resources.html?Sort=Date%3A%3Adesc

Updated April 7, 2020

Cleaning Potentially COVID-19 Contaminated Surfaces:  The CDC issued updated guidance applicable to all on cleaning potentially COVID-19 contaminated surfaces. They have added recommendations for several new surfaces including electronic equipment.  Please see the following link for more information: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prepare/disinfecting-building-facility.html?deliveryName=USCDC_2067-DM24835.

***Flash Fire Hazard During Large Volume Spray Application of 70% Alcohol Solutions for Equipment Decontamination Purposes***: DVT has become aware of some medical first responders applying 70% alcohol solutions via high-volume spray applicators for equipment decontamination purposes.  While the efficacy of these solutions against COVID-19 has been confirmed by the CDC, employees and volunteers may not be aware of the significant flash fire risk they are inadvertently creating.  Both liquids have relatively low flash points.  Spray application further increases the potential for ignition due to static discharge or contact with an ignition source.  Dispensing 70% alcohol on a rag or micro cloth and using it to wipe surfaces is a recommended alternate method to reduce the flash fire risk.  If spray application is required, it is recommended to substitute a non-combustible, equipment-compatible, EPA-approved surface disinfectant shown to be effective against COVID-19.  For disinfectant options, visit: https://www.epa.gov/pesticide-registration/list-n-disinfectants-use-against-sars-cov-2.

Alcohol	Flashpoint	Source
70% isopropyl	18oC (64oF)	Fisher SDS https://fscimage.fishersci.com/msds/89530.htm
70% ethyl	25oC (77oF)	Labchem SDS http://labchem.com/tools/msds/msds/VT270.pdf

COVID-19 Exposure and Risk Mitigation Best Practices for Law Enforcement

(Issued: April 6, 2020)

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security released a resource document intended to be a “one-stop shop” for law enforcement on topics related to COVID-19 risk mitigation and exposure prevention while performing official duties.  This is a useful resource for anyone responsible for law enforcement exposure risk management.

Source: https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/USDHSFACIR/2020/04/09/file_attachments/1423558/COVID-10%20LE%20Risk%20Mitigation%20and%20Exposure%20Best%20Practices%20_Final.pdf

Updated COVID-19 Guidance for Park Facility Owners

(Updated: April 10, 2020)

The updated guidance provides recommendations for reducing infection risk at public parks.  This includes:

Display public health posters or signs throughout the park to educate visitors on basic infection prevention practices consisting of:

• Staying home if you are sick or do not feel well, and what to do if you’re sick or feel ill.
• Using social distancing and maintaining at least six feet between individuals in all areas of the park.
• Covering coughs and sneezes with a tissue, then throwing the tissue in the trash.
• Washing hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom, before eating, and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
• Using hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available.
• Avoiding touching eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.

Maintain restrooms. Ensure they have functional toilets, clean and disinfected surfaces, and handwashing supplies.  Restrooms should remain open if a park remains open for public visitation.

Ensure that public restrooms are:

• Operational with functional toilets.
• Cleaned and disinfected regularly, particularly high-touch surfaces such as faucets, toilets, doorknobs, and light switches. Clean restrooms daily or more often if possible using EPA-registered household disinfectants.
• Regularly stocked with supplies for handwashing, including soap and materials for drying hands.

Make sure people are social distancing in popular areas of the park.  Facility owners should consider temporary closure of recreation assets to encourage social distancing practices.  These areas include sports fields, playgrounds, skateparks, basketball courts, tennis courts, and picnic areas.  To ensure visitors avoid these areas, it is recommended that owners place physical barriers as well as post signage communicating that the area is closed.

If organized sports activity has been suspended within the park, communicate with sports team coaches that unofficial sports practices are also prohibited within the park.

Source: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/parks-rec/park-administrators.html

Updated COVID-19 Solid Waste and Wastewater Management Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

(Updated:  April 11, 2020)

While intended for healthcare settings, several of the FAQs address concerns voiced by public employees involved in waste management operations:

Q: What do waste management companies need to know about wastewater and sewage coming from a healthcare facility or community setting with either a known COVID-19 patient or patients under investigation (PUIs)?

A: Waste generated in the care of PUIs or patients with confirmed COVID-19 does not present additional considerations for wastewater disinfection in the United States. Coronaviruses are susceptible to the same disinfection conditions in community and healthcare settings as other viruses, so current disinfection conditions in wastewater treatment facilities are expected to be sufficient. This includes conditions for practices such as oxidation with hypochlorite (i.e., chlorine bleach) and peracetic acid, as well as inactivation using UV irradiation.

Q: Do wastewater and sewage workers need any additional protection when handling untreated waste from healthcare or community setting with either a known COVID-19 patient or PUI?

A: Wastewater workers should use standard practices including basic hygiene precautions and wear the recommended PPE as prescribed for their current work tasks when handling untreated waste. There is no evidence to suggest that employees of wastewater plants need any additional protections in relation to COVID-19.

Q: Should medical waste or general waste from healthcare facilities treating PUIs and patients with confirmed COVID-19 be handled any differently or need any additional disinfection?

A: Medical waste (trash) coming from healthcare facilities treating COVID-2019 patients is no different than waste coming from facilities without COVID-19 patients. CDC’s guidance states that management of laundry, food service utensils, and medical waste should be performed in accordance with routine procedures. There is no evidence to suggest that facility waste needs any additional disinfection.

Source: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/faq.html

Reopening of Golf Courses and Certain Other Recreation Activities

(Issued: 4/27/20)

Governor Wolf announced beginning May 1 that golf courses, marinas, guided fishing trips and privately owned campgrounds may reopen statewide.  These activities must adhere to updated life-sustaining business guidance issued by the administration.  Links to this announcement and referenced guidance appear below.

Sources:

Press release: https://www.governor.pa.gov/newsroom/governor-announces-may-1-statewide-reopening-of-limited-outdoor-recreational-activities-to-help-pennsylvanians-maintain-positive-physical-mental-health/

Updated life sustaining business guidance: https://www.scribd.com/document/452553026/UPDATED-11-45am-April-28-2020-Industry-Operation-Guidance

Updated life sustaining business FAQ: https://www.scribd.com/document/452553495/UPDATED-2-15-PM-April-27-2020-Life-Sustaining-Business-FAQs

First Responders and Law Enforcement

(Updated: 4/30/20)

The CDC has consolidated its police, fire and EMS COVID-19 guidance.  The updated webpage contains updated links addressing cleaning and disinfection practices (updated 4/28/20) and frequently asked questions (updated 4/27/20).

Source:

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/first-responders.html

What to Do if Your Pet Tests Positive for COVID-19 Virus

(Updated: 5/4/20)

Although the CDC considers the risk of COVID-19 animal to human infection low, animals including pet cats and dogs are vulnerable to the virus.  Accordingly, the CDC has issued guidance on how to protect pets and their owners.

Source:

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/positive-pet.html

Stretching PPE Supplies

(Updated: 5/5/20)

This CDC guidance updates prior recommendations for optimizing limited personal protective equipment supplies.

Source:

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/ppe-strategy/index.html

Cleaning and Disinfection for Households

(Updated: 5/13/20)

The CDC updated its recommendations for cleaning and disinfecting of households where persons under investigation or those with confirmed COVID-19 live or are self-isolating.

Of special interest is guidance for electronic devices, including the use of wipeable covers.

Source:

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/cleaning-disinfection.html

FEMA Exercise Starter Kit for Workshop on Reconstituting Operations

(Released: 5/12/20)

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has provided a workshop template designed to help organizations plan for the reopening of idled operations.  The Exercise Starter Kit includes a sample facilitator guide and customizable PowerPoint slides.

The discussion questions focus on four themes: People, Facilities, Messaging and Communications, and Resources and Logistics. The intended end product of the workshop is a practical reconstitution plan specific to the organization.

Source:

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/188077

Factors to Consider When Planning to Purchase Respirators from Another Country

(Last reviewed: 5/11/20)

Domestic shortages of respirators approved by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) have resulted in public employers purchasing respirators from foreign suppliers which have not been vetted by NIOSH.  Some of the alternate equipment has been found to underperform when compared to NIOSH-approved equipment.  This has recently lead to respirator recalls by public health authorities in Illinois and Missouri.  On this webpage the CDC offers guidance for those looking to purchase respirators which lack NIOSH approval.   Also provided are tips for spotting counterfeit respirators.

Sources:

Guidelines for purchasing non-U.S. respirators: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/ppe-strategy/international-respirator-purchase.html

Guidelines for spotting counterfeit respirators: https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/npptl/usernotices/counterfeitResp.html

When to Wear Gloves

(Last reviewed: 5/9/20)

The CDC has not recommended that impermeable gloves be worn as a general public health precaution against the COVID-19 virus.  Frequent hand washing or use of minimum 60% alcohol hand sanitizer is the preferred infection control method to minimize dermal exposures.  There are situations, however, when impermeable gloves should be worn.  This CDC guidance reviews the activities for which use of impermeable gloves is recommended (e.g., cleaning and disinfection, caring for someone who is sick and in certain occupational settings).

Source:

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/gloves.html

What Waste Collectors and Recyclers Need to Know about COVID-19

(Last reviewed:  5/7/20)

In this guidance, the CDC summarizes current infection control recommendations for sanitation employees.  Practical precautions to minimize employee exposures to infected individuals continue to be emphasized.

Source:

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/organizations/waste-collection-recycling-workers.html

Schools and Child Care Programs

(Last reviewed: 5/7/20)

This CDC webpage provides practical infection control guidelines applicable to municipal day care operations.

Source:

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/schools-childcare/index.html?deliveryName=USCDC_2067-DM28083

Interim Guidance for Businesses and Employers Responding to Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)

(Updated: 5/6/20)

This updated CDC guidance is intended to aid employers looking to resume normal or phased operations.  Guidelines for conducting optional daily employee health checks including temperature monitoring are also presented.

Sources:

Updated business and employer guidance: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/guidance-business-response.html?deliveryName=USCDC_2067-DM28083

Guidance for conducting employee health screenings: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/general-business-faq.html

(See the Frequently Asked Question: Reducing the Spread of COVID-19 in Workplaces – Should we be screening employees for COVID-19 symptoms (such as temperature checks)?  What is the best way to do that?)

Employees: How to Cope with Job Stress and Build Resilience During the COVID-19 Pandemic

(Last reviewed:  5/5/20)

The CDC offers practical recommendations for how general employees can practice emotional self-care during the outbreak.

Source:

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/mental-health-non-healthcare.html

Healthcare Personnel and First Responders: How to Cope with Stress and Build Resilience During the COVID-19 Pandemic

(Last reviewed: 5/5/20)

The CDC offers practical recommendations for how healthcare workers and first responders can practice emotional self-care during the outbreak.

Source:

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/mental-health-healthcare.html

FBI Criminal History Background Check Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

(Dated: 5/15/20)

The Pa. Department of Human Services posted an updated FAQ which offers guidance on obtaining Pa. CPSL-mandated FBI criminal history certifications during the COVID-19 crisis.  Select IdentoGO fingerprint scanning locations are reportedly open for business.  A mobile option is also available for employers requiring scans for groups of 20 or more.

https://www.dhs.pa.gov/providers/Providers/Documents/Coronavirus%202020/Fingerprinting%20FAQs%205.15.pdf

(Credit to the Pa. Recreation and Park Society for “scooping” this document.)

Guidelines for Reopening America

This CDC guidance provides recommendations on reopening, including specific guidelines applicable to child care programs, day camps, and restaurants and bars.

(Issued:  5/20/20)

Press Release:

https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2020/s0520-cdc-resources-open.html

Guidance:

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/downloads/php/CDC-Activities-Initiatives-for-COVID-19-Response.pdf

Child Care Programs – See Page 38

Schools and Day Camps – See Page 42

Restaurants and Bars – See Page 49

For Parents: Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C) associated with COVID-19

(Updated: 5/20/22)

This CDC guidance is intended to educate parents on a serious condition in children associated with COVID-19 infection.

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/children/mis-c.html.

Use of Cloth Face Coverings to Help Slow the Spread of COVID-19

(Last Reviewed: 5/23/20)

This CDC guidance provides current recommendations for using cloth face coverings.   These are especially important to prevent the spread of the virus by infected but asymptomatic individuals.

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/diy-cloth-face-coverings.html

If You Are Sick or Caring for Someone

(Last Reviewed: 5/24/20)

This CDC guidance provides current recommendations for taking care of yourself or others who are ill with COVID-19.

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/if-you-are-sick/index.html

Information for Sanitation and Wastewater Workers on COVID-19

(Reviewed 5/28/20)

This CDC guidance describes current infection prevention recommendations for employees who handle solid waste and wastewater.  Included are current PPE recommendations for those who may contact human waste or wastewater (recommendations excerpted below):

The following PPE is recommended for workers handling human waste or sewage:

• Goggles: to protect eyes from splashes of human waste or sewage.

• Protective face mask or splash-proof face shield: to protect nose and mouth from splashes of human waste or sewage.

• Liquid-repellent coveralls: to keep human waste or sewage off clothing.

• Waterproof gloves: to prevent exposure to human waste or sewage.

• Rubber boots: to prevent exposure to human waste or sewage.

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/sanitation-wastewater-workers.html

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/faq.html?CDC_AA_refVal=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Fphp%2Fwater.html#COVID-19-and-Water

Cyber Essentials

(Revised: 5/29/20)

This resource from the Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency is geared toward leaders of local government agencies and small businesses.  It offers practical guidance on where to start implementing organizational cybersecurity controls.

https://www.cisa.gov/cyber-essentials

Employers with Workers at High Risk

(Reviewed: 5/29/20)

This CDC guidance offers current recommendations for protecting especially vulnerable workers, such as those with underlying medical conditions, from COVID-19.

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/high-risk-workers.html

Child Care Programs

(Reviewed: 5/29/30)

This CDC guidance provides current recommendations for COVID-19 infection prevention and response in childcare settings.

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/schools-childcare/childcare-programs.html

Infection Prevention Postings

(Reissued: 6/3/20)

This CDC resource provides infection prevention postings for use in the workplaces, schools, homes and commercial establishments.

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/downloads/workplace-school-and-home-guidance.pdf

Pets and Other Animals

(Reviewed: 6/3/20)

This resource summarizes current CDC recommendations for protecting pets and their owners from COVID-19.

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/animals/pets-other-animals.html

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/pets.html

People Who Need to Take Extra Precautions

(Reviewed:  6/3/20)

This resource offers current CDC recommendations for protecting vulnerable populations, such as immunocompromised and pregnant individuals, from COVID-19.

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/need-extra-precautions/index.html

If You Are Pregnant, Breastfeeding, or Caring for Young Children

(Updated: June 25, 2020)

This CDC guidance provides updated COVID-19 infection prevention and response recommendations for expecting and new parents.

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/need-extra-precautions/pregnancy-breastfeeding.html

Considerations for Restaurants and Bars

(Updated:  June 30, 2020)

This CDC guidance provides updated COVID-19 infection prevention and response recommendations applicable to food and drink serving establishments.

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/organizations/business-employers/bars-restaurants.html

Order of the Secretary of the Pa. Department of Health Requiring Universal Face Coverings

(Issued: July 1, 2020)

This order from the Pa. Department of Health specifies the circumstances when cloth face coverings are mandatory as well as the exemptions when they are not.

https://www.governor.pa.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/20200701-SOH-Universal-Face-Coverings-Order.pdf

People Who Need to Take Extra Precautions

(Updated: July 2, 2020)

This CDC guidance provides updated infection prevention recommendations for groups at higher risk of the COVID-19 virus.

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/need-extra-precautions/index.html

Quarantine If You Might Be Sick

(Updated:  July 3, 2020)

This updated CDC guidance reviews recommended quarantine practices applicable to non-essential employees and volunteers who may have experienced a significant COVID-19 exposure event.

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/if-you-are-sick/quarantine.html

[Note:  Essential employees and volunteers should continue to follow the post-exposure response recommendations issued by the Pa. DOH and CDC.]

Print Resources

(Updated July 5, 2020)

This updated CDC guidance provides a library of COVID-19 infection prevention and response notices intended to educate various populations on prudent public health practices.

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/communication/print-resources.html?Sort=Date%3A%3Adesc

Examples of U.S. CDC Public Health Notices include:

General:

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/communication/print-resources.html?Sort=Date%3A%3Adesc

Aquatic Venues:

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/downloads/community/Aquatic-Venues-COVID19-Safety-Steps-Poster.pdf

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/downloads/community/Aquatic-Venues-COVID19-Daily-Checklist-for-staff.pdf

Parks and Playgrounds:

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/downloads/stop-the-spread-of-germs.pdf

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/downloads/stop-the-spread_poster.pdf

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/downloads/wash-your-hands-bubbles_poster.pdf

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/downloads/germs-all-around-you_poster.pdf

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/downloads/superhero_poster.pdf

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/downloads/cover-your-cough_poster.pdf

Summer Camps:

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/downloads/community/COVID19-wash-hands-summer-camp-poster.pdf

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/downloads/community/COVID19-stop-germs-summer-camp-poster.pdf

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/downloads/community/COVID19-keep-space-summer-camp-poster.pdf

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/downloads/community/COVID19-camp-rules-summer-camp-poster.pdf

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/downloads/community/COVID19-dont-feel-well-summer-camp.pdf

Youth Sports:

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/downloads/community/checklist-for-coaches-covid19.pdf

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/downloads/community/youth-sports-fact-sheet-covid19.pdf

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/downloads/community/youth-sports-covid-banner-print_6x3.pdf

Workplaces:

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/downloads/StayHomeFromWork.pdf

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/images/face-covering-checklist.jpg

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/prevention-H.pdf

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/downloads/COVID19-What-You-Can-Do-High-Risk.pdf

https://www.cdc.gov/handwashing/pdf/keep-calm-wash-your-hands_11x17.pdf

Posted: March 12, 2020 –

DVHT is working with Aetna and CVS Health to support our members’ health and wellbeing in response to the spread of COVID-19.

DVHT members who think they were exposed or are presenting symptoms compatible with COVID-19 should first CALL their primary health care provider for guidance.

The DVHT Health Center located in Horsham, PA is currently pre-screening anyone with respiratory/flu like symptoms and are treating, as appropriate, telephonically.  In addition, the Health Center cannot “clear” patients to return to work after 24-48 hours of cold symptoms. Such clearance can be provided after three days of absence. Important Note: the Health Center does not provide COVID-19 testing at this time.

Effective immediately and until further notice, DVHT members will have access to the following Aetna/CVS Health resources:

Updated October 21, 2020 8:30 a.m. 

• COVID-19 testing – As mandated by the Families First Coronavirus Relief Act, members are eligible for COVID-19 testing at no cost.
• Inpatient COVID-19 treatment – Member cost shares are waived for inpatient admissions at all in-network and out-of-network facilities for the treatment of COVID-19 or associated health complications. Extended through December 31, 2020.
• Behavioral and mental health telemedicine visits – Member cost shares are waived for all in-network outpatient behavioral and mental health telemedicine visits (synchronous virtual care through live video-conferencing between the member and mental health provider). Extended through December 31, 2020.
• Prior authorization for medication – Clinical prior authorizations are extended to prevent gaps in therapy (includes Specialty Medications). Extended by an additional 90 days, up to nine months, not to exceed the member’s plan benefit year or December 31, 2020.

Posted March 19, 2020:

• Outreach to members most at-risk for COVID-19.  Through existing care management programs, Aetna will proactively reach out to members most at-risk for COVID-19. Care managers will walk members through what they can do to protect themselves, where to get information on the virus, and where to go to get tested.
• Members who are diagnosed with COVID-19 will receive a Care Package through Aetna’s Healing Better program.  Eligibility for this program will be determined by Aetna through the adjudication of claims with the appropriate diagnosis code. Please note DVHT will not be able to override Aetna claim determinations for eligibility. If you think you are eligible for the care package, please contact Aetna Member Services by calling the number reflected on the back of your Aetna ID card.  In addition,CVS Health has implemented the following resources to educate members about COVID-19 and help address any associated anxiety and stress:
  • Opening Crisis Response lines for all Aetna members who may be experiencing anxiety related to COVID-19 – 833-327-AETNA / 833-327-2386.
  • Expanding 24×7 access to the Aetna Nurse Medical Line for all Aetna members. 1-800-556-1555.
  • Web link to CVS Health articles and frequently asked questions concerning COVID-19: https://cvshealth.com/newsroom/articles/what-you-need-know-about-new-coronavirus-outbreak.

Posted May 6, 2020 – On April 28, 2020 the Department of the Treasury and Department of Labor issued joint rules and EBSA Disaster Relief Notice 2020-01, Guidance and Relief for Employee Benefit Plans Due to the COVID-19 (Novel Coronavirus) Outbreak, announcing extensions on certain time frames with federal COBRA and reimbursement plans like FSAs and HRAs. (A copy of the notice is attached.) Highlights include:

• This extension applies to both the standard COBRA 60-day election time frame as well as the 30-day grace period for premium payments. This means qualified beneficiaries can elect COBRA coverage and make payments up until 60 days after the end of the COVID-19 outbreak period.
• The deadline for individuals filing a claim for benefits under health FSAs and HRAs has also been extended.
• The above noted extensions are retroactive to March 1, 2020, the declared beginning date of the COVID-19 national emergency.
• President Donald Trump has not yet declared an end date for the COVID-19 national emergency. Sixty days after the COVID-19 national emergency is declared over, the above noted extensions will be discontinued.

Wellness Program Update

Updated:  May 28, 2020 at 8:00 a.m.

• • Please expect slight delays in wellness incentive and reimbursement processing. For submissions received during months affected by the pandemic, please allow approximately 6-8 weeks for processing.
  • All on-site wellness events and services scheduled through June 30 have been cancelled. The wellness team will be contacting entities with scheduled events to reschedule. Events scheduled after June 30 will be addressed as the situation progresses. Wellness Presentations & Health Fairs are available remotely via webinar or other digital platforms. Entity leadership may submit requests for remote wellness services here or contact the Health Trust Wellness Team.
  • Questions – please email wellness@dvtrusts.com.

Updated October 28, 2020 at 8:15 a.m.

Wellness Reimbursements – The Health Trust Gym Membership Reimbursement and Weight Watchers Reimbursement (in-person meeting) requirements for proof of participation have been “relaxed” for the months March through December 2020. Members will not need to show proof of visits visits/workouts or meetings in these months to earn a reimbursement. Proof of payment is required.  Please contact the Health Trust Wellness Team at wellness@dvtrusts.com with questions or for more information.

Please contact the Health Trust Wellness Team at wellness@dvtrusts.com for with questions or for more information.

Posted: March 26, 2020 at 8:00 a.m. –

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):

• CDC latest updates
• What you need to know about COVID-19
• What to do if you are sick with COVID-19

PA Department of Health:

Coronavirus Information – Learn more about the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak and connect with resources for Pennsylvanians.

PA Office of Open Records (OOR):

The OOR has issued advice relating to the coronavirus (COVID-19) and the Sunshine Act. Click here for details.

The OOR has issued advice relating to the coronavirus (COVID-19) and the Right-to-Know Law. Click here for details.

DVMMA Managers’ Annual Meeting – December 9, 2020