When there is a positive COVID-19 case in our community close contacts of the confirmed case are contacted and are placed under self-quarantine and actively monitored for symptoms.
As part of the disease investigation process, the health department will reach out to individuals who may have been exposed to a known case of COVID-19. If you receive a message from the health department, please call the number back immediately. The only personal information you will be asked about is your name, date of birth, address, and your email. Health departments will never ask for a social security number, bank information, etc. The health department will also talk to you about what you need to do if you test positive for COVID-19 or need to be on quarantine. You will also be asked about anyone you were in close contact with while you were infectious. This helps the health department notify other people who may be at risk for COVID-19.
While there are more testing sites available now throughout the state, getting tested for COVID-19 still requires an order from a medical provider. If you are symptomatic, (fever, cough, difficulty breathing), you should contact your medical provider by telephone, and they will screen you to determine if you should be tested for the coronavirus. (This may change in the future). If they determine that you should be tested, they will direct you to a testing site, where you will be swabbed outside the facility, and then asked to self-isolate until the test results come back.
Recent positive cases indicate the virus is active in the community; however, that doesn’t change the precautions recommended by our department. The recommendations for social distancing, gathering limitations, and the Governor’s Directive to Stay Safe, Stay Home, and practicing good hygiene (wash your hands, avoid touching your face, cover your cough/sneeze, and disinfect frequently), are the most effective measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
The most up-to-date information can be found at tooelehealth.org, coronavirus.utah.gov, and cdc.gov/coronavirus.
