COVID-19 Information

Share COVID-19 Information on Facebook Share COVID-19 Information on Twitter Share COVID-19 Information on Linkedin Email COVID-19 Information link
COVID-19 Information from the City of Golden

Jefferson County Board of Health Votes to Rescind PHO 21-006

During a public special Jefferson County Board of Health meeting held virtually on February 10, the Jefferson County Board of Health voted to rescind Public Health Order 21-006, the public health order requiring the use of masks in all public, indoor settings, including school and childcare settings, effective Feb. 11, 2022 at 11:59 p.m.

You can read the full press release for more information.

Colorado launches new COVID-19 vaccine hotline

REMOTE, (Jan. 25, 2021): Today, the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment launched a new call center for the public to ask questions specifically about the COVID-19 vaccine. Now through the end of January, the vaccine call center is open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. - 10 p.m., Saturday and Sunday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Beginning Feb. 1, hours will extend to 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The new toll-free number is 1-877-CO VAX CO (1-877-268-2926).

Connect for Health Colorado® is operating Colorado’s COVID-19 Call Center

The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) is partnered with Connect for Health Colorado® to provide Coloradans with a call center that has support services for COVID-19 testing and containment results. The “COVID Results” Call Center opened on Nov. 19, 2020 and has placed more than 228,000 calls.

The COVID-19 Call Center staff provide outbound call support to deliver COVID-19 test results. The call center is also open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and provides information and guidance in English and Spanish, as well as in other languages using an interpretation service.

State launches BinaxNOW rapid home test program for Colorado schools

As part of ongoing efforts to keep in-person learning as safe as possible, the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) has developed a new at-home COVID-19 testing program for teachers, staff, and selected students at participating schools. The program is intended to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 in schools by allowing symptomatic and exposed individuals to get tested quickly and easily.

Learn more in the press release below.

New CommUNITY campaign seeks to make help easier to find

Jefferson County Community Partners has launched the new CommUNITY campaign in an effort to connect people in need during the pandemic with community resources and assistance available under one easy-to-access hub.

Resources include food assistance, layoff support, unemployment assistance, work opportunities, housing, mental wellness support, childcare access, assistance for populations including pregnant women, children, and aging adults, and more.

The CommUNITY campaign also encourages neighbors to safely check in on each other and share information about services they may not know exist. Information is also available to connect locals to volunteer opportunities with one of the many community partners supporting those in need.

For more information and to access resources, visit www.jeffco.us/community or call 2-1-1. Information is available in English and Spanish at at www.jeffco.us/comunidad

An Important COVID-19 Message from the City of Golden

We’ve previously shared recommendations and best practices from public health agencies on protecting yourself from exposure to the COVID-19 virus. We encourage you to continue to pay attention to those recommendations and monitor advice from CDC and local health agencies, as guidance is changing based on the evolving nature of the COVID-19 outbreak.

In addition to the general guidance on protecting oneself from COVID-19 exposure, the City has been actively working with State and local public health officials and implementing recommended measures to help minimize the risk to the Golden community and to our employees. In addition, we have developed contingency plans for our critical operations should the COVID-19 situation further deteriorate.

Here are some of the actions we have taken to date:

(not in any particular order of importance):

Closures

  • City Hall is now open without need of an appointment. Please see our Status of City Services page for a detailed list of facilities and services that are open, will open soon, and what remains closed.
  • We are in contact with the Jefferson County Health Department and Colorado Department of Health and Environment to ensure we take action on closures of facilities when it is recommended. Please watch for updates that we will post on Facebook and here on Guiding Golden.

Public Safety

  • The Police Department is strongly encouraging everyone to utilize the online reporting tool, which can be found at: cityofgolden.seamlessdocs.com/f/GPDOnlineReporting. This online reporting tool is simple to use on your mobile device, tablet, or computer. You can even upload photos or documents directly from your phone. Online reporting is NOT to be used for EMERGENCIES, crimes in progress, or where suspect information is known. In case of EMERGENCY call 911 or for NON-emergencies call JeffCom Communications Center at (303) 980-7300.
  • The Golden Police Department is now on ACCIDENT ALERT until further notice in an effort to limit exposure to COVID-19 and maintain staffing for emergencies. During this time, police will generally not be dispatched to property damage collisions where the vehicles are movable, but there are exceptions. Please only ask for Police assistance if the accident involves the following: injury and/or death; suspected drug or alcohol use; hit and run; cars are blocking the roadway or causing a safety hazard; involves public vehicle or property.
    For those incidents that do NOT apply, an online report may be made through the online accident reporting tool.
  • The Golden Fire and Police Departments have implemented new protocols for responding to suspected cases of COVID-19 or other illnesses resembling COVID-19. Personnel will wear additional personal protective equipment. Our 9-1-1 dispatch center is advising responding crews of potential calls resembling COVID-19. In those cases, only one member of a responding crew will make initial contact with an individual for assessment while other members standby at a distance. This is a practice most public safety departments are implementing to prevent over exposure to first responders.
  • Golden Fire Department has been in touch with all of our nursing home and senior care facilities and has shared Golden Fire Department protocols as well as information regarding best practices. Golden Fire has discussed the importance of facility planning with each of these entities.
  • The Golden Police Department is working closely with the Sheriff’s Office and other police agencies to ensure adequate coverage arrangements are made should the situation deteriorate.

Water

  • There is no immediate risk to Golden’s public water supply from COVID-19. Nevertheless, we have been in touch with public water experts and will be prepared to implement recommendations, if any, made by public health officials and the public water industry. City of Golden staff have prepared to continue to operate our water treatment facility remotely should we encounter staffing challenges.

Budget

  • We recognize there will be an obvious economic impact created by the COVID-19 outbreak. Department Directors are limiting all non-essential City expenditures until further notice. The City has adequate reserve funds for these types of emergencies, but nevertheless, conservative spending is prudent until the budget impact of COVID-19 is fully understood.

Communication

  • The City maintains close contact with county officials to coordinate actions.
  • Initially, we posted COVID-19 information on the City of Golden’s homepage, but have since moved all updates and information here to this page.

Cleaning Guidelines

  • We’ve implemented enhanced cleaning protocols in city facilities. Our employees will be wiping down work stations and high-touch points in public areas several times throughout each day.

What you can expect moving forward:

  • We will continue to monitor public health agency recommendations on public gatherings and other guidance specific to government agencies. If there are changes to City operations or specific actions that impact the Golden community, we will notify the community of these actions.
  • We will provide updates to the Golden community on a regular basis moving forward.

How you can Help:

  • Be diligent about your own hygiene practices and follow CDC and public health recommendations for limiting the spread of COVID-19. Limiting the reach of COVID-19 is a community effort!
  • Pay attention to and have an awareness of changing guidance and recommendations from CDC and public health officials. The spread of COVID-19 is a very fluid, fast-changing situation and recommendation may change often.
  • Check on the well-being of your neighbors, especially the elderly, to ensure they have the resources and supplies they need to sustain a lengthy period of time at home.

Many of our local small businesses may struggle to make ends meet during these uncertain times. To the extent you can support them without compromising safety, please do so! Go to VisitGolden.com for a list of take-out and delivery restaurants in Golden and ways to Shop Local without leaving home.

Jefferson County Board of Health Votes to Rescind PHO 21-006

During a public special Jefferson County Board of Health meeting held virtually on February 10, the Jefferson County Board of Health voted to rescind Public Health Order 21-006, the public health order requiring the use of masks in all public, indoor settings, including school and childcare settings, effective Feb. 11, 2022 at 11:59 p.m.

You can read the full press release for more information.

Colorado launches new COVID-19 vaccine hotline

REMOTE, (Jan. 25, 2021): Today, the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment launched a new call center for the public to ask questions specifically about the COVID-19 vaccine. Now through the end of January, the vaccine call center is open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. - 10 p.m., Saturday and Sunday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Beginning Feb. 1, hours will extend to 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The new toll-free number is 1-877-CO VAX CO (1-877-268-2926).

Connect for Health Colorado® is operating Colorado’s COVID-19 Call Center

The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) is partnered with Connect for Health Colorado® to provide Coloradans with a call center that has support services for COVID-19 testing and containment results. The “COVID Results” Call Center opened on Nov. 19, 2020 and has placed more than 228,000 calls.

The COVID-19 Call Center staff provide outbound call support to deliver COVID-19 test results. The call center is also open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and provides information and guidance in English and Spanish, as well as in other languages using an interpretation service.

State launches BinaxNOW rapid home test program for Colorado schools

As part of ongoing efforts to keep in-person learning as safe as possible, the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) has developed a new at-home COVID-19 testing program for teachers, staff, and selected students at participating schools. The program is intended to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 in schools by allowing symptomatic and exposed individuals to get tested quickly and easily.

Learn more in the press release below.

New CommUNITY campaign seeks to make help easier to find

Jefferson County Community Partners has launched the new CommUNITY campaign in an effort to connect people in need during the pandemic with community resources and assistance available under one easy-to-access hub.

Resources include food assistance, layoff support, unemployment assistance, work opportunities, housing, mental wellness support, childcare access, assistance for populations including pregnant women, children, and aging adults, and more.

The CommUNITY campaign also encourages neighbors to safely check in on each other and share information about services they may not know exist. Information is also available to connect locals to volunteer opportunities with one of the many community partners supporting those in need.

For more information and to access resources, visit www.jeffco.us/community or call 2-1-1. Information is available in English and Spanish at at www.jeffco.us/comunidad

An Important COVID-19 Message from the City of Golden

We’ve previously shared recommendations and best practices from public health agencies on protecting yourself from exposure to the COVID-19 virus. We encourage you to continue to pay attention to those recommendations and monitor advice from CDC and local health agencies, as guidance is changing based on the evolving nature of the COVID-19 outbreak.

In addition to the general guidance on protecting oneself from COVID-19 exposure, the City has been actively working with State and local public health officials and implementing recommended measures to help minimize the risk to the Golden community and to our employees. In addition, we have developed contingency plans for our critical operations should the COVID-19 situation further deteriorate.

Here are some of the actions we have taken to date:

(not in any particular order of importance):

Closures

  • City Hall is now open without need of an appointment. Please see our Status of City Services page for a detailed list of facilities and services that are open, will open soon, and what remains closed.
  • We are in contact with the Jefferson County Health Department and Colorado Department of Health and Environment to ensure we take action on closures of facilities when it is recommended. Please watch for updates that we will post on Facebook and here on Guiding Golden.

Public Safety

  • The Police Department is strongly encouraging everyone to utilize the online reporting tool, which can be found at: cityofgolden.seamlessdocs.com/f/GPDOnlineReporting. This online reporting tool is simple to use on your mobile device, tablet, or computer. You can even upload photos or documents directly from your phone. Online reporting is NOT to be used for EMERGENCIES, crimes in progress, or where suspect information is known. In case of EMERGENCY call 911 or for NON-emergencies call JeffCom Communications Center at (303) 980-7300.
  • The Golden Police Department is now on ACCIDENT ALERT until further notice in an effort to limit exposure to COVID-19 and maintain staffing for emergencies. During this time, police will generally not be dispatched to property damage collisions where the vehicles are movable, but there are exceptions. Please only ask for Police assistance if the accident involves the following: injury and/or death; suspected drug or alcohol use; hit and run; cars are blocking the roadway or causing a safety hazard; involves public vehicle or property.
    For those incidents that do NOT apply, an online report may be made through the online accident reporting tool.
  • The Golden Fire and Police Departments have implemented new protocols for responding to suspected cases of COVID-19 or other illnesses resembling COVID-19. Personnel will wear additional personal protective equipment. Our 9-1-1 dispatch center is advising responding crews of potential calls resembling COVID-19. In those cases, only one member of a responding crew will make initial contact with an individual for assessment while other members standby at a distance. This is a practice most public safety departments are implementing to prevent over exposure to first responders.
  • Golden Fire Department has been in touch with all of our nursing home and senior care facilities and has shared Golden Fire Department protocols as well as information regarding best practices. Golden Fire has discussed the importance of facility planning with each of these entities.
  • The Golden Police Department is working closely with the Sheriff’s Office and other police agencies to ensure adequate coverage arrangements are made should the situation deteriorate.

Water

  • There is no immediate risk to Golden’s public water supply from COVID-19. Nevertheless, we have been in touch with public water experts and will be prepared to implement recommendations, if any, made by public health officials and the public water industry. City of Golden staff have prepared to continue to operate our water treatment facility remotely should we encounter staffing challenges.

Budget

  • We recognize there will be an obvious economic impact created by the COVID-19 outbreak. Department Directors are limiting all non-essential City expenditures until further notice. The City has adequate reserve funds for these types of emergencies, but nevertheless, conservative spending is prudent until the budget impact of COVID-19 is fully understood.

Communication

  • The City maintains close contact with county officials to coordinate actions.
  • Initially, we posted COVID-19 information on the City of Golden’s homepage, but have since moved all updates and information here to this page.

Cleaning Guidelines

  • We’ve implemented enhanced cleaning protocols in city facilities. Our employees will be wiping down work stations and high-touch points in public areas several times throughout each day.

What you can expect moving forward:

  • We will continue to monitor public health agency recommendations on public gatherings and other guidance specific to government agencies. If there are changes to City operations or specific actions that impact the Golden community, we will notify the community of these actions.
  • We will provide updates to the Golden community on a regular basis moving forward.

How you can Help:

  • Be diligent about your own hygiene practices and follow CDC and public health recommendations for limiting the spread of COVID-19. Limiting the reach of COVID-19 is a community effort!
  • Pay attention to and have an awareness of changing guidance and recommendations from CDC and public health officials. The spread of COVID-19 is a very fluid, fast-changing situation and recommendation may change often.
  • Check on the well-being of your neighbors, especially the elderly, to ensure they have the resources and supplies they need to sustain a lengthy period of time at home.

Many of our local small businesses may struggle to make ends meet during these uncertain times. To the extent you can support them without compromising safety, please do so! Go to VisitGolden.com for a list of take-out and delivery restaurants in Golden and ways to Shop Local without leaving home.

  • State health officials release guide to safer Thanksgiving

    Share State health officials release guide to safer Thanksgiving on Facebook Share State health officials release guide to safer Thanksgiving on Twitter Share State health officials release guide to safer Thanksgiving on Linkedin Email State health officials release guide to safer Thanksgiving link

    Enjoy the holiday safely by celebrating at home or virtually

    REMOTE, (Nov. 17, 2020): Thanksgiving is one of the most delicious days of the year, and a wonderful time to celebrate the people closest to you. As COVID-19 cases continue to rise throughout Colorado, it’s important to do everything possible to keep yourself and your loved ones safe while celebrating Thanksgiving.

    The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) advises Coloradans to only interact in-person with people from their household this Thanksgiving to help slow the alarming spread of COVID-19. This holiday season is an opportunity to reimagine what togetherness can look like and come up with creative ways to celebrate loved ones while making sure they stay healthy for many more years to come.

    Dos and don’ts for Thanksgiving celebrations:

    • Do cook and eat a special meal with members of your immediate household.
    • Do video chat or talk on the phone with friends and family who don’t live with you.
    • Do wear a mask and keep 6 feet of distance from others while grocery shopping for your Thanksgiving feast.
    • Don’t travel to visit family and friends in other households.

    See all Thanksgiving guidelines.

    Continue to stay up to date by visiting covid19.colorado.gov.

  • State to Move Jefferson County to Level Red, “Severe Risk,” in the Dial Effective Friday, November 20 at 5 p.m.

    Share State to Move Jefferson County to Level Red, “Severe Risk,” in the Dial Effective Friday, November 20 at 5 p.m. on Facebook Share State to Move Jefferson County to Level Red, “Severe Risk,” in the Dial Effective Friday, November 20 at 5 p.m. on Twitter Share State to Move Jefferson County to Level Red, “Severe Risk,” in the Dial Effective Friday, November 20 at 5 p.m. on Linkedin Email State to Move Jefferson County to Level Red, “Severe Risk,” in the Dial Effective Friday, November 20 at 5 p.m. link

    Jefferson County, Colo. – Effective Friday, November 20, 2020 at 5 p.m. the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) will move several Denver Metro counties, including Jefferson County, to “Level Red – Severe Risk” in the COVID-19 Dial Framework. The COVID-19 Dial Framework has also been modified to include several key updates based on the best available evidence for slowing transmission of the virus.

    “This virus is worse than it’s ever been in Jefferson County and across our region. No one wants to resort to more restrictions, but frankly we are running out of options,” said Dr. Margaret Huffman, Director of Community Health Services at JCPH. “We are hopeful that by taking these steps as a region, we will begin to see some progress in the next few weeks.”

    Cases of COVID-19, hospitalizations and the County’s testing positivity rate have all continued to increase sharply. In the past two weeks, there have been 4,969 total cases of the virus in Jefferson County, or 852.2 per 100,000 residents (for the two-week period going from November 2-15, 2020). Over this same time period, hospitalizations due to COVID-19 have also increased across the region by more than 58 percent, which causes exacerbated staffing difficulties. Additionally, Jefferson County’s two-week average test positivity rate is 11.9 percent.

    Some key changes for the county under the state’s updated Level Red requirements include:

    • Personal gatherings with people outside of your household are prohibited.
    • Indoor dining at restaurants is prohibited; use takeout, curbside or delivery options instead. Outdoor dining is permitted with those in your household.
    • Last call is at 8 p.m.
    • Gyms are limited to 10% capacity, or 10 people indoors per room, or outdoors in groups less than 10. Reservations are required.
    • Indoor events are closed.
    • Outdoor events are permitted at 25% capacity, not to exceed 75 people. You may only attend with members of your own household and you must maintain at least 6 feet from non-household members at all times.
    • Both critical and non-critical retail are limited to 50% capacity and should increase their curbside pick-up and delivery services.
    • People who are at higher risk for getting COVID-19 or experiencing severe illness must stay at home.
    • At this time, JCPH’s PHO 20-009 remains in effect. We are reviewing the order for any changes needed based on this new information.

    “As a community, in order to get back to normal, we have to first dig deep and do what we need to do to get the virus under control. That means Thanksgiving will need to look a bit different for families this year,” Huffman said. “In addition to only celebrating the holiday with those who live with you, we need everyone to stay at home more, wear a mask whenever you’re in public, always keep 6 ft. distance and practicing good hygiene.”

    Learn more information about CDPHE’s Dial Framework, including guidance for the community and businesses under Level Red.

    You can also refer to CDPHE’s Dial Public Health Order (PHO 20-36) for more details on Level Red requirements.

    Read more about the updated COVID-19 Dial levels and more in CDPHE’s press release.

  • Update on Jeffco’s Move to Level Orange & Public Health Order 20-009

    Share Update on Jeffco’s Move to Level Orange & Public Health Order 20-009 on Facebook Share Update on Jeffco’s Move to Level Orange & Public Health Order 20-009 on Twitter Share Update on Jeffco’s Move to Level Orange & Public Health Order 20-009 on Linkedin Email Update on Jeffco’s Move to Level Orange & Public Health Order 20-009 link

    As announced on November 4, Jefferson County Public Health (JCPH) will move to Level Orange (formerly Level 3) of the Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment’s (CDPHE) Dial Framework beginning today, Monday, November 9 at 5 p.m. Additionally, JCPH’s Public Health Order 20-009, which sets limits on gatherings, will remain in effect. Because cases of COVID-19 in Jefferson County have continued to rise so rapidly, maintaining requirements in PHO 20-009 that are stricter than those in Level Orange is critical as we work to slow the spread of the virus in our community.

    Specifically, that means the Jefferson County community and businesses should follow Level Orange of CDPHE’s Dial Framework per Public Health Order 20-36, with the following modifications required by JCPH’s Public Health Order 20-009:

    • Outdoor events are limited to no more than 75 people and indoor events to no more than 25 people within their usable space as calculated by the Social Distancing Space Calculator. Events may not have more than one room, designated activity or area.
      • Note: Businesses and activities that follow events guidance as required by PHO 20-36, but which are not events involving social gatherings, are not subject to PHO 20-009. However, if a business or facility hosts a social event, then that event is subject to the terms of PHO 20-009.
    • Spectators are prohibited at all high school sporting events, regardless of whether they are sanctioned by the Colorado High School Activities Association (CHSAA) and regardless of whether they take place at public, private or charter schools.
    • Spectators are prohibited at adult recreational and league sports.

    Please note that when referenced in public health orders, “capacity” is defined as the posted building occupancy limit of a space. However, for non-critical office-based businesses, “capacity” is defined for Level Orange as 25 percent of their number of employees that would typically be in that office.

    Visit CDPHE’s website for more information about capacity limits and requirements under Level Orange of the Dial Framework. For information about JCPH’s PHO 20-009, including frequently asked questions, visit www.jeffco.us/safer-at-home.

  • State to Move Jefferson County to Level Orange in the Dial Due to Continued Surge in COVID-19 Cases

    Share State to Move Jefferson County to Level Orange in the Dial Due to Continued Surge in COVID-19 Cases on Facebook Share State to Move Jefferson County to Level Orange in the Dial Due to Continued Surge in COVID-19 Cases on Twitter Share State to Move Jefferson County to Level Orange in the Dial Due to Continued Surge in COVID-19 Cases on Linkedin Email State to Move Jefferson County to Level Orange in the Dial Due to Continued Surge in COVID-19 Cases link

    New restrictions will go in effect Nov. 9 at 5 p.m.

    Jefferson County, Colo. – Jefferson County Public Health (JCPH) was notified today by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) that the county will be moved to Level Orange, formerly Level 3, in the Dial Framework, effective Monday, Nov. 9 at 5 p.m. MT.

    Despite the county implementing a comprehensive mitigation plan, COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations and the testing positivity rate in Jefferson County — three key indicators for how the virus is spreading in a community — have all continued to increase at an alarming pace. In the past two weeks, there have been 2,513 total cases of the virus in Jefferson County, or 431.0 per 100,000 residents (10/20-11/2). Over this same time period, hospitalizations due to COVID-19 have also increased across the region by more than 75 percent. Additionally, Jefferson County’s two-week average test positivity rate is 7.7 percent.

    “We were hoping we could avoid these new restrictions, but unfortunately cases have continued to increase in Jeffco and across the state. At the same time, we recognize that this has been such a long event, and we are all experiencing different levels of exhaustion,” said Dr. Margaret Huffman, director of Community Health Services at JCPH. “It’s important to remember all the reasons we have been working so hard to keep ourselves, loved ones and community healthy. Whether it’s to be able to enjoy celebrations together sooner, to protect our healthcare workers who are coping with burnout, or to help keep our schools and favorite businesses open, we have so many reasons to pull together to save lives.”

    Here’s what everyone can do to help protect our community’s health, safety and economy:

    • Wear a mask to protect yourself and others. Remember that wearing a mask has been proven to greatly reduce the spread of the virus between individuals. Some early research has indicated that if you do contract the virus, masks could help reduce the dose, or how much of the virus is spread, which could lower the severity of the illness.
    • Watch your distance. Keep 6 feet or more apart and avoid gatherings with people who do not live with you.
    • Wash your hands often. Scrub for 20 seconds with soap and warm water. When using hand sanitizer, make sure to choose a product with 60% or higher alcohol content.
    • Get tested and stay home if you’re sick. There are many free testing sites around Jeffco.
    • Be kind to your neighbors. Check in on one another and support your friends and loved ones, especially those who live alone or are homebound.
    • Support local businesses. Keep them open by slowing the spread. You can also show your support by ordering takeout or delivery from your favorite restaurant, keeping memberships when possible or purchasing a gift card to a local retailer this holiday season.

    “Even some small changes, like staying home two or three more times a week, can go a long way,” Huffman said. “Just know that your individual steps to reduce the spread of COVID-19 matter and protect those around you. If you look at the last nine months and all your hard work, they likely already have.”

    JCPH’s Public Health Order 20-009 will remain in effect at least until the county officially transitions to Level Orange, and then may be modified or rescinded based on these new changes.

    For more information about CDPHE’s Dial Framework, including guidance for the community and businesses under Level Orange, please visit https://covid19.colorado.gov/data/covid-19-dial. You can also refer to CDPHE’s Dial Public Health Order (PHO 20-36) for more details on Level Orange requirements.

  • JCPH Announces New COVID-19 Mitigation Strategies to Help Protect Community

    Share JCPH Announces New COVID-19 Mitigation Strategies to Help Protect Community on Facebook Share JCPH Announces New COVID-19 Mitigation Strategies to Help Protect Community on Twitter Share JCPH Announces New COVID-19 Mitigation Strategies to Help Protect Community on Linkedin Email JCPH Announces New COVID-19 Mitigation Strategies to Help Protect Community link

    Jefferson County, Colo. – Jefferson County Public Health (JCPH) announced a series of new mitigation strategies to help curb the alarming spread of COVID-19 in the county. Strategies include issuing a new local Public Health Order 20-009 (PHO 20-009) that focuses on reducing opportunities for individuals to gather in public and private settings, and calling on all residents to do their part to help keep our community and economy healthy and open. The new public health order is effective as of 12:01 a.m. on October 30, 2020, and will continue until midnight on November 29, 2020, or until it is extended, rescinded, superseded or amended.

    In the past two weeks, there have been 1,815 total cases of the virus in Jefferson County, or 311.3 per 100,000 residents (10/14-10/28). Over this same time period, hospitalizations due to COVID-19 have also increased across the region by more than 80 percent. Additionally, Jefferson County’s two-week average positivity rate is 6.2 percent, which indicates the virus is widespread in our community and that there are likely more people with COVID-19 who haven’t been tested.

    “We have continued to see cases of the virus increase across our county over the past months at very concerning rates, and have been out of compliance with the state’s two-week case count limits for Level 2 of the Dial Framework since October 16,” said Dr. Margaret Huffman, Director of Community Health Services at JCPH. “We have a brief window of opportunity to get our cases under control, or our county will be moved to Level 3 and face even more restrictions. I want to emphasize how critical these next couple of weeks are — we’ve seen other counties be moved on the Dial already, but that doesn’t have to be the path for Jeffco if we can all come together right now.”

    Similar to trends in neighboring counties, gatherings among people who do not live in the same household have been a common source of exposure for Jeffco residents diagnosed with COVID-19. Evidence also shows that limiting interactions and gatherings among people slows virus transmission. Therefore, JCPH will relinquish its local variance and implement PHO 20-009, which does the following:

    • Limits outdoor events to no more than 75 people and indoor events to no more than 25 people within their usable space as calculated by the Social Distancing Space Calculator. Events may no longer have more than one room, designated activity or area.
    • Prohibits spectators at all high school sporting events, regardless of whether they are sanctioned by the Colorado High School Activities Association (CHSAA) and regardless of whether they take place at public, private or charter schools.
    • Prohibits spectators at adult recreational and league sports.
    • Ceases all alcohol beverage sales at 10:00 pm. for restaurants, bars and breweries (that sell food) and similar venues.

    In addition to the new Public Health Order, JCPH recently launched a community-wide campaign, “Together We Go Forward,” that calls on everyone to do their part to help keep our community open. The campaign highlights six individual actions that, when combined at a collective level, make a big difference and help protect our community’s health, safety and economy:

    • Wear a mask to protect yourself and others.
    • Watch your distance. Keep 6 feet or more apart. Avoid gatherings as much as possible.
    • Wash your hands often. Scrub for 20 seconds with soap and warm water.
    • Stay home if you’re sick. Get well and don’t spread germs.
    • Be kind to your neighbors. Remember we’re all working hard.
    • Support local businesses. Keep them open by slowing the spread.

    “We believe this mitigation approach balances a few things: doing what we have to do to help get our cases down and avoid even tighter restrictions, allowing businesses and schools to continue to operate, and providing our community tangible steps they can take to help forge a better path forward,” Huffman said. “We are hopeful that, by working together with our community, we will get a handle on this virus now so we can all go into the holiday season on a safer, healthier course."

    For more information about COVID-19, including guidance for the community and businesses under the state’s Dial Framework, visit www.jeffco.us/safer-at-home. You can also learn more about the COVID-19 Dial from the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment.

  • Personal gatherings limited to ten people, no more than two households

    Share Personal gatherings limited to ten people, no more than two households on Facebook Share Personal gatherings limited to ten people, no more than two households on Twitter Share Personal gatherings limited to ten people, no more than two households on Linkedin Email Personal gatherings limited to ten people, no more than two households link

    REMOTE, (Oct. 23, 2020): In response to an alarming increase in hospitalizations due to COVID-19, the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) today amended its Safer at Home public health order to limit personal gatherings in all counties at all Safer at Home levels. The revised order reduces the size of personal gatherings to no more than 10 people from no more than two separate households.

    Recent case investigation data show that since July attending social gatherings and community exposures have become more common among new cases. This suggests people have relaxed their precautions and are interacting more closely with a greater number of households.

    “We are asking all Coloradans to act with an abundance of caution to reverse these worrying trends. Right now, the virus is spreading when people from multiple households attend gatherings. We need to keep gatherings smaller and with people from fewer households — we are asking everyone to ‘shrink their bubble’ to reduce the spread,” said Jill Hunsaker Ryan, executive director, CDPHE. “Please take every effort to reduce contact with members of other households. If you can work remotely, please do so to reduce contact with other individuals. Taking action now can prevent your loved ones from getting sick, and help us save lives and avoid stricter public health orders in the future.”

    Certain counties, like Denver, Arapahoe, Adams, and Boulder, have recently instituted stricter public health orders on gathering sizes. As always, Coloradans living in counties with stricter orders should continue to follow those orders.

    The amended public health order does not apply to counties that are currently at the Protect Our Neighbors level. Local governments in these counties may continue to determine gathering limits as they see fit, but all Coloradans are strongly encouraged to limit gatherings.

    In addition to limiting gatherings and gathering sizes, Coloradans should continue to follow other public health guidance, including wearing a mask in public, washing hands frequently, and keeping physical distance of at least 6 feet from others outside their household.

    Access all public health and executive orders online.

    Continue to stay up to date by visiting covid19.colorado.gov.

  • Jefferson County at Risk of Tighter Restrictions

    Share Jefferson County at Risk of Tighter Restrictions on Facebook Share Jefferson County at Risk of Tighter Restrictions on Twitter Share Jefferson County at Risk of Tighter Restrictions on Linkedin Email Jefferson County at Risk of Tighter Restrictions link

    Oct. 16, 2020, Jefferson County, Colo. – Due to a continued increase in COVID-19 cases, Jefferson County is at risk of tighter restrictions, including being moved to Level 3 of the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment’s (CDPHE) Dial Framework. Jefferson County Public Health (JCPH) is calling on Jeffco residents to stay strong and focused on preventing the spread of this virus, so we can move forward together as a community and keep our businesses open.

    “It’s normal to feel exhausted by COVID-19 and the things we have to do to prevent the spread of the virus. Many of us are feeling ‘COVID-19 fatigue,’” said Christine Billings, Head of Jefferson County Public Health’s Office of Pandemic Response. “We have been carrying the weight of this pandemic for much longer than we expected. But the virus is still circulating, and we can’t give up now. We must dig deep and work together as a community to slow the spread.”

    In the past two weeks, there have been 1,013 total cases of the virus in Jefferson County, or 174 per 100,000 residents (10/2-10/15). The limit to maintain our Level 2 status is 175 cases per 100,000 residents over a two-week period.

    We expect to surpass our Level 2 limits on or around Friday, October 16. When this occurs, Jefferson County will be given a grace period during which we must get our cases back below those limits. During this time, we will meet with CDPHE to discuss current trends, local-level considerations and mitigation strategies. Over an agreed upon timeline, CDPHE will assess whether local trends are improving, the risk to the community and the strength of local mitigation efforts. After considering all of these factors, CDPHE will determine next steps needed to protect our community, which could include moving our county to a more restrictive level (Level 3).

    Being moved to Level 3 of the Dial Framework would mean stricter capacity limits for a variety of businesses and activities, which would be detrimental for our community. According to CDPHE’s guidelines, Level 3 restrictions include (but are not limited to):

    • Retail locations would be limited to 25% capacity.
    • Restaurants would be limited to 25% capacity or 50 people per room, whichever is less.
    • Bars would remain closed unless they serve food (restaurant limits would apply).
    • Offices would be limited to 25% of their employees being able to work in person.
    • Gyms and fitness centers would be limited to virtual operations, or with groups of 10 or fewer outdoors only.
    • Outdoor events would be limited to 75 people max, based on the state’s Social Distance Calculator. Indoor events would be limited to a maximum of 25 people, using the calculator.
    • Houses of worship and life rites would be limited to 25% of the posted occupancy limit indoors, not to exceed 50 people per room, whichever is less.

    Additionally, our local variance could be permanently rescinded. Since CDPHE will only grant site-specific variances going forward, losing the variance would be a significant hardship on the community.

    “As a community, we have the power to choose our next steps in the COVID-19 recovery process,” Billings said. “We can move forward if everyone comes together to take important prevention steps in our daily lives. We’ve curbed spikes like this before, and we can do it again.”

    Everyone can help keep our community open by taking the following actions:

    • Follow the “three Ws” — wear a mask, watch your distance (stay 6 feet from others who don’t live with you) and wash your hands.
    • Avoid gatherings with people who do not live with you, including small social gatherings like backyard parties and family gatherings.
    • Stay home if you’re sick, and keep your children home if they are sick.
    • If you have symptoms of COVID-19, get tested. Find more info about testing and a listing of test sites in and around Jeffco.
    • Clean and disinfect high-touch surfaces, like doorknobs, light switches and your phone. Find tips for keeping your home safe.
    • Plan ahead and choose safe alternatives for traditional holiday celebrations. Get tips for celebrating Halloween and Día de lost Muertos.
    • Get a flu shot. While it will not stop you from getting COVID-19, it will protect you and your family from the flu this season and keep you safe from the potential compounding complications of having flu and COVID-19. Get info about local flu clinics.

    For more information about COVID-19 in Jefferson County, including local trends, guidelines, community resources and more, visit www.jeffco.us/coronavirus. You can also learn more about CDPHE’s Dial Framework and how it applies to counties by visiting covid19.colorado.gov.

  • JCPH Announces Fall Flu Vaccination Events

    Share JCPH Announces Fall Flu Vaccination Events on Facebook Share JCPH Announces Fall Flu Vaccination Events on Twitter Share JCPH Announces Fall Flu Vaccination Events on Linkedin Email JCPH Announces Fall Flu Vaccination Events link

    This year has been a challenging time for the Jefferson County community, and the COVID-19 pandemic has made it more important than ever for residents to do everything they can to remain as healthy as possible. As we enter flu season, Jefferson County Public Health (JCPH) encourages people to get their flu vaccine, as it is one more way to protect you and your family and give you some peace of mind.

    While it’s important to get your flu shot every season, 2020 is an especially important year to get vaccinated to protect from the compounding health problems of flu and COVID-19. Having the flu and COVID-19 at the same time could make you more susceptible to serious complications, and while no one ever wants to be hospitalized, hospitalization during the novel coronavirus pandemic means facilities may be strained for resources and equipment, as well as have stricter visitation guidelines.

    To help meet the need within our community for increased vaccination, JCPH will be hosting vaccination clinics throughout the remainder of the year.

    • Saturday, Oct. 10, 2-4 p.m. – Free Adult Flu Clinic and Food Bank at the Arvada Head Start/Carin’ Clinic 5150 Allison St., Arvada, CO 80002
    • Thursday, Oct. 15, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. – All ages flu clinic at Jefferson County Public Health, 645 Parfet St., Lakewood CO 80215 (please call ahead to make an appointment – walk-in appointments available)
    • Thursday, Oct. 22, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. – Free Adult Flu Clinic at Charles E. Whitlock Recreation Center 1555 Dover St., Lakewood, CO 80215
    • Saturday, Nov. 7, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. – Shots for Tots and Teens Clinic (all childhood vaccines available) Arvada Fire Training Center 6651 Indiana St., Arvada, CO 80007 (please call ahead to make an appointment)
    • Thursday, Nov. 12, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. – All ages flu clinic at Jefferson County Public Health, 645 Parfet St., Lakewood CO 80215 (please call ahead to make an appointment – walk-in appointments available)
    • Thursday, Nov. 19, 3-7 p.m. – Jeffco Public Schools Immunization Clinic at Ken Caryl Middle School (all childhood vaccines available), 6509 W Ken Caryl Ave, Littleton, CO 80128 (please call ahead to make an appointment)
    • Saturday, Dec. 5, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. – Shots for Tots and Teens Clinic (all childhood vaccines available) Arvada Fire Training Center 6651 Indiana St., Arvada, CO 80007 (please call ahead to make an appointment)
    • Thursday, Dec. 10, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. – All ages flu clinic at Jefferson County Public Health, 645 Parfet St., Lakewood CO 80215 (please call ahead to make an appointment – walk-in appointments available)
    • Thursday, Dec. 17, 3-7 p.m. – Jeffco Public Schools Immunization Clinic at Creighton Middle School (all childhood vaccines available), 50 S Kipling St, Lakewood, CO 80226 (please call ahead to make an appointment)

    Influenza is a serious disease that results in deaths and hospitalizations in Colorado each year. During the last flu season, more than 3,500 Coloradans were hospitalized from the flu and three children died, according to the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE).

    Everyone six months of age and older should get a flu vaccine every flu season with rare exceptions, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The flu vaccine is safe and effective and is the best protection against the flu, reducing the risk of hospitalization in adults and pregnant women by 40 percent, according to the CDC. Most people who get the flu vaccine have no side effects, and the vaccine does not cause the flu.

    Some people are more at risk for the flu including older adults, young children, pregnant women, and people with some chronic health conditions. Older adults and those with chronic health conditions are also at higher risk of complications from COVID-19, so it’s especially important to stay safe this flu season.

    Flu shots are available now at many healthcare providers, pharmacies and clinics, including the JCPH clinic at 645 Parfet Street in Lakewood. Appointments at JCPH are available every Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday from 7 a.m.-5 p.m. by calling 303-239-7078. In addition to the flu vaccine, all childhood vaccines are available, and appointments are often available for same or next day. To get your flu vaccine, contact your healthcare provider’s office, local public health agency or you can find local vaccine providers at VaccineFinder.org. For more information on influenza in Colorado, visit fluvaxcolorado.org.

  • CDPHE reminds Coloradoans of free, accessible, community testing sites

    Share CDPHE reminds Coloradoans of free, accessible, community testing sites on Facebook Share CDPHE reminds Coloradoans of free, accessible, community testing sites on Twitter Share CDPHE reminds Coloradoans of free, accessible, community testing sites on Linkedin Email CDPHE reminds Coloradoans of free, accessible, community testing sites link

    The state is encouraging all Coloradans who need or want to get a COVID-19 test to go to any of the many community testing sites located throughout the state. There are no identification or insurance requirements, and the tests are free.

    People exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19 should get tested immediately. Anyone who has been or may have been exposed to someone with COVID-19, but does not have symptoms, should get tested 7 days after exposure. The state of Colorado testing guidance differs from what the CDC released yesterday. We currently have the capacity to test anyone who wants to get tested.

    Anyone who got tested because of symptoms or because of a possible exposure should be in isolation/quarantine while waiting for the test result. All individuals who believe they may have been exposed to COVID-19 should quarantine and limit their exposure to others for a full 14 days, even if they have testing done and that testing is negative.

    Colorado is in its 4th week of declining cases, and testing is a critical mechanism to keeping cases down.

    “Because of Coloradans’ commitment to health and wellness-- we’ve been able to slow the spread of COVID-19. But we know it can creep up if we aren’t diligent. We need to keep wearing our masks, keep physically distancing, keep staying home when you’re sick, and if you need a test, get tested!” said Jill Hunsaker Ryan, executive director, CDPHE.

    There are more than 50 free community testing sites across the state, as well as dozens of locations offered by private providers. The state’s website has a list of locations

    About 2.7% of all tests have come back positive within the last 7 days, indicating that testing is robust enough to slow the spread of COVID-19.

    As the Labor Day holiday nears, the state cautions that while tests are a powerful tool, a negative test doesn’t mean it’s ok to meet in large gatherings or ignore other public health orders, like mask wearing. All Coloradans need to mask up, physically distance, avoid large gatherings, and stay home while sick. After Independence Day, we saw an increase in cases.

    “Now is the time to plan ahead to put safety first this Labor Day holiday. We can enjoy the last weeks of summer, while also staying healthy,” said Rachel Herlihy, state epidemiologist, CDPHE. “If you have symptoms or get exposed to the virus, it’s critical to follow the quarantine guidance. From what we know about the virus, it can spread even when you are feeling ok-- and you could test negative if the disease is in its early stages. We all need to err on the side of caution to protect one another.”

    Continue to stay up to date by visiting covid19.colorado.gov

  • JCPH Announces New Office of Pandemic Response, Expands Resources to Control the Spread of COVID-19 in Community

    Share JCPH Announces New Office of Pandemic Response, Expands Resources to Control the Spread of COVID-19 in Community on Facebook Share JCPH Announces New Office of Pandemic Response, Expands Resources to Control the Spread of COVID-19 in Community on Twitter Share JCPH Announces New Office of Pandemic Response, Expands Resources to Control the Spread of COVID-19 in Community on Linkedin Email JCPH Announces New Office of Pandemic Response, Expands Resources to Control the Spread of COVID-19 in Community link

    Jefferson County, Colo. – Jefferson County Public Health (JCPH) announces the official launch of a new team, the Office of Pandemic Response (OPR), as part of the county’s long-term COVID-19 response and recovery strategy. The OPR’s main purpose will be to control the spread of COVID-19 in the community through at least the next two years by providing community impact support, conducting infection prevention and response, and collecting and assessing epidemiological information for everyone in the county.

    “We are very encouraged to bring this new Office into our tool box to help in the continued fight against COVID-19,” said Dr. Mark B. Johnson, JCPH Executive Director. “Having this dedicated team of experts to focus solely on response and recovery efforts, building on what we have learned over the last six months, will help reduce the burden of this virus and save lives.”

    As with many organizations, the impact of COVID-19 on businesses and organizations has greatly impacted day-to-day operations, and JCPH is no exception. Since the start of the pandemic in early 2020, JCPH has adapted its focus to keeping residents and visitors to the county safe from the new virus — with little increase in staffing and limited dedicated resources.

    Led by Christine Billings, Emergency Preparedness and Response Supervisor and Incident Commander for Jefferson County’s COVID-19 response, the OPR will be incorporated into JCPH’s existing Emergency Preparedness and Response program — including approximately 15 new hires as well as many current staff who will work across various programs. Day-to-day activities will include implementing outbreak response tasks; organizing and administering community testing sites; conducting case investigations and contact tracing; collecting and providing public information; and providing overall education regarding safe practices and life-saving habits. Activities will also be adapted over time to reflect the most current and unique needs of Jefferson County.

    “Having an expanded team of dedicated public health experts, combined with the resources they need to do their jobs, is going to help our county greatly in this fight against COVID-19,” said Billings. “Our team has worked extremely hard over these last several months, but the OPR will really ensure we have the tools necessary to increase our support to the community as we work through the response and recovery process.”

    Per the scope of agreement, the OPR will function through December 2022, operating under a $4.2M grant from the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, via the Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment (CDPHE).

    Learn more about how COVID-19 is currently affecting Jeffco, what you can do to help slow the spread, community resources and more at www.jeffco.us/coronavirus.

Page last updated: 25 May 2022, 09:23 AM