Deschutes County in ‘surge capacity’ for contact tracing, outlines guidance to public

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Deschutes County Health Services said Thursday it was responding to a high volume of COVID-19 cases. Due to the increase in the number of new cases, officials said the case investigation and contact tracing teams are currently unable to contact all residents who tested for COVID-19. is positive within 24 hours.

“Due to the recent large increase in local COVID cases, we are currently operating at peak capacity,” said Dr. George Conway, Chief Health Officer. “We ask residents to wear a mask around people they do not live with; continue to stay home and get tested if they feel sick, and self-isolate and notify close contacts if they test positive for COVID-19. Getting vaccinated and receiving a booster shot is the best way to protect against serious illness, hospitalization or death.

If you have tested positive for COVID-19

Public health officials are asking those who have tested positive for COVID-19 and are awaiting a call from public health to:

  • Contact your medical provider if you have any medical needs, including the availability of outpatient therapy options, if applicable.
  • Visit www.deschutes.org/covidinfo to learn more about current quarantine and isolation guidelines.
  • Call the COVID-19 hotline at (541) 699-5109 if you need information on quarantine or isolation timelines or if you need assistance to help you quarantine or isolate yourself. The hotline is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

If you have symptoms or have been exposed to someone with COVID-19

Public health officials are encouraging people who are symptomatic or who have been exposed to someone with COVID-19 to get tested. For the most accurate results, it is recommended to test five days after exposure to someone with COVID-19. For more information on where to get tested in Deschutes County, visit www.deschutes.org/covid19testing. There is currently an increased demand for testing services. Residents requesting testing may experience delays in scheduling appointments.

If you are awaiting COVID-19 test results

Those who have had a COVID-19 test and are still awaiting their results should stay home and away from others, officials said.

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