Public Health & Nursing

COVID-19 Coronavirus Information

COVID-19 is a new disease, caused be a novel (or new) coronavirus that has not previously been seen in humans. The virus causing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), is not the same as the coronaviruses that commonly circulate among humans and cause mild illness, like the common cold.

Visit Washington County Department of Public Safety-Coronavirus-Information for the most up to date information in Washington County.

This is a rapidly changing situation. You can check the New York State Novel Coronavirus page and the CDC Novel Coronavirus Page for State and National updates.

If you have questions about the Coronavirus, you can call the New York State Department of Health Novel Coronavirus Hotline at 1-888-364-3065.

COVID-19 TESTING ADVISEMENT
The availability of COVID-19 testing in our area is extremely limited at this time, the numbers reflected in our statistics (on our Coronavirus Information page) are low due to a very small amount of tests being administered due to the lack of test kits and testing capabilities in our area. Please know that COVID-19 is in our area, the best way to protect yourself and your family is to follow the guidance, exercise social distancing, wash your hands and STAY HOME.

2-1-1

2-1-1 is the one number to call to find or give help in Albany, Columbia, Fulton, Greene, Hamilton, Montgomery, Rensselaer, Saratoga, Schenectady, Schoharie, Warren, and Washington counties.

2-1-1 is an easy-to-remember telephone number to call for free and confidential community referral that connects callers with resources providing food, shelter, rent assistance, clothing, child care options and other types of community assistance. Trained referral specialists are multi-lingual and available to help individuals find the help they need.

Whatever the need, the 2-1-1 Call Center has the information and expertise to make the right connections.

Addiction and Support

Addiction doesn’t take time off, and neither does the Office of Addiction Services and Supports (OASAS). If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction to alcohol, substances, or gambling, treatment is available all across New York State.

Smoking/vaping or the use of opioids or methamphetamines have an affect on your lungs. Continued use can make some NYers more vulnerable if exposed to COVID-19.

Call New York State’s Hopeline at 1-877-846-7369. Text: 467369.

The Hopeline is available 24 hours a day, every day of the year.

All calls are toll-free, anonymous and confidential.

Hopeline staff can answer your questions and help you find treatment in your area. Information and resources are also available on their website: OASAS.ny.gov

Alzheimer’s Disease Caregiver Support Initiative

The Alzheimer’s Disease Caregiver Support Initiative, a nonprofit dedicated to providing free support services to caregivers of those with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias in Clinton, Essex, Franklin, Hamilton, Warren and Washington Counties is continuing to support and provide services to caregivers through alternative methods. Teleconferences, video chats, and telephone support are being offered for support groups, care consultations, and educational workshops.

Caregivers who are looking for support are encouraged to contact their Care Navigator for more information. Click here to visit the initiative’s website for a contact list.

2020 U.S. Census

Every 10 years, the U.S. Census Bureau undertakes a mammoth task: counting all the people residing in the United States. This count affects the allocation of funding for our community’s public resources (e.g., roads, hospitals, schools), how we plan for the future, and our voice in government.

For the first time, in 2020 the U.S. Census Bureau will accept responses online. The process will be quick and secure. You can respond to the census in less time than it takes to finish your morning coffee. You’ll still be able to respond by mail.

Learn more about the importance of the 2020 Census and how to participate, visit: https://2020census.gov./

All-Hazards Volunteer Program

Washington County has joined forces with New York State Department of Health, creating a Public Health All-Hazards Volunteer Program.
This program will train volunteers to assist Public Health efforts in response, mitigation, and recovery for disasters which may pose a threat to human health.
To register for the Public Health All-Hazard Volunteer Program, go to https://apps.health.ny.gov/pub/servny/