State moves to DIY COVID-19 contact tracing

By Willie S. Morrissey Last updated Sep 17, 2022

NEW YORK, New York (WWNY) – With the recent increase in COVID-19 cases, State Health Commissioner Dr. Mary Bassett announced that the state is moving towards a “more self-reliant style COVID contact tracing.

What does it mean? If you test positive for COVID-19, you will not receive a call from a contact tracer. Instead, people who test positive will be directed to a state website that provides guidance and a form to fill out. Officials say the website will go live on Wednesday and will come with detailed information for people and employers.

The decision came as local health departments found themselves taxed with time-consuming contact tracing calls. And because the Omicron variant has a short incubation period, the window of time during which contact tracing can effectively prevent the spread of the virus has also shortened, according to Dr. Bassett. She says contact tracing has become nearly impossible.

Counties will now decide whether or not to continue contact tracing.

Although Jefferson County has not released an official statement, County Administrator Bob Hagemann told 7 News that the county will likely follow the state’s lead in moving to self-reporting. COVID cases.

“The challenge has grown bigger and bigger as the number of positive cases has exploded across the north of the country,” Hagemann said. “The challenge of reaching everyone in a timely manner is very limited, and with the state approach they are announcing today, again, we will likely follow that lead, as it appears to be the most responsible way at this point. time to stay on top of things.

Bassett says the new rules will follow CDC guidelines and reiterated that anyone who tests positive for COVID-19 should stay home.

St. Lawrence County Acting Director of Health Jolene Munger says her office is still awaiting guidance from the state health department, but says SLC Public Health has always followed state guidelines throughout the pandemic.

Lewis County officials say they are awaiting more information from the state before making a decision. But they say they are likely to move away from looking for contracts and letting people self-report.