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A new coronavirus - 2019 Novel (New) Coronavirus – that was first detected in China is now spreading worldwide. This virus causes a disease called COVID-19 and can lead to fever, cough and shortness of breath. There are thousands of confirmed cases in a growing number of countries internationally and the virus is now spreading in the United States. There are ongoing investigations to learn more about this virus.
For the latest information, please check the New York State Department of Health web site.
Contents
Frequently Asked Questions
- NYS Department of Health COVID-19 FAQ
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- English: DOH COVID-19 FAQ - April 17 - PDF
- Day Care Providers FAQ (updated)
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- Day Care Providers FAQ - March 23 update
English: Day Care Providers FAQ - March 23 - Word
Español/Spanish: Day Care Providers FAQ - Spanish - March 23 - Word - Day Care Providers FAQ - Spanish - March 23 - PDF
中文/Chinese, simplified: Day Care Providers FAQ - simplified Chinese - March 23 - Word - Day Care Providers FAQ - simplified Chinese - March 23 - PDF
中文/Chinese, traditional: Day Care Providers FAQ - traditional Chinese - March 23 - Word - Day Care Providers FAQ - traditional Chinese - March 23 - PDF
- Day Care Providers FAQ - March 23 update
- Local Districts FAQ
General Guidance
Vaccine Guidelines
- Learning about the COVID-19 Vaccine: Basics and More (Presentation)
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Child care providers and programs wishing to be up to date on information about current COVID-19 vaccines can now access a new informational resource. This PowerPoint presentation contains information and answers to many of your most frequent questions.
- Learning about the COVID-19 Vaccine
Learning about the COVID-19 Vaccine PDF - English
Learning about the COVID-19 Vaccine (Spanish) PDF - Spanish
- Learning about the COVID-19 Vaccine
- CDC COVID-19 Vaccine Information and FAQ
- See the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) site for federal guidance on COVID-19 vaccination.
- Janssen Pharmaceuticals/Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 Vaccine Information
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Please see the attached COVID-19 vaccination program document package, where you will find updated forms, templates, and instructions regarding the Janssen Pharmaceuticals/Johnson & Johnson vaccine.
The following documents are enclosed:
- Guidance for the New York State COVID-19 Vaccination Program (Effective 3/5/21)
- Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) EUA Letter of Authorization (Issued 3/1/21 - Revised)
- New York State COVID-19 Immunization Screening and Consent Form
- Information for Health Care Professionals about the Screening Checklist for the COVID-19 Vaccine
- New York State COVID-19 Vaccine Provider Storage and Handling Overview
- New York State COVID-19 Vaccine Program Temperature Excursion Report
- New York State COVID-19 Vaccine Program Guidance for Vaccine Transport and Tracking Sheet
- New York State COVID-19 Vaccine Program Redistribution and Q&A
We cannot overemphasize the vital role that vaccines will play as we turn the tide of COVID-19 infections and bring hope for a brighter future in New York State. Your continued efforts to ensure proper vaccine storage, handling, and administration are of paramount importance. Thank you for your efforts to protect New Yorkers from COVID-19.
- Janssen Vaccine Guidance for Providers
PDF Janssen Vaccine Guidance for Providers - March 3 - English - Template Non-Patient-Specific Standing Order for the Administration of the Janssen Vaccine
PDF Janssen Vaccine Guidance - March 5 - English
- Janssen Pharmaceuticals/Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 Vaccine Information – Dr. Zucker Letter to Providers
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As you are likely aware, on February 27, 2021, the U.S. Food & Drug Administration issued an Emergency Use Authorization (“EUA”) for emergency use of Janssen Biotech, Inc. COVID 19 Vaccine for the prevention of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) for individuals 18 years of age and older.1 If you have not already, it is crucial that you carefully review the EUA and the terms therein.
- Vaccine Facility Guidance
PDF Dr. Zucker Letter to Providers - March 1 - English
- Vaccine Facility Guidance
- Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine Information
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This Fact Sheet contains information to help you understand the risks and benefits of the Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine, which you may receive because there is currently a pandemic of COVID-19.
- Moderna Vaccine Guidance for Providers
PDF Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine Fact Sheet - March 8 - English
- Moderna Vaccine Guidance for Providers
- Pfizer COVID-19 Vaccine Information
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This Fact Sheet contains information to help you understand the risks and benefits of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine, which you may receive because there is currently a pandemic of COVID-19.
- Pfizer COVID-19 Vaccine Fact Sheet
PDF Pfizer COVID-19 Vaccine Fact Sheet - March 8 - English
- Pfizer COVID-19 Vaccine Fact Sheet
- Guidance for COVID-19 Vaccine Access for Persons Age 16 and Over Residing in Programs or Facilities Licensed or Certified by OCFS
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Limited amounts of COVID-19 vaccine are available for New York’s COVID-19 Vaccination Program. The amount of vaccine the state receives is based upon the allocation made to New York by the federal government. The New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) then determines state allocations to providers and entities who have enrolled to administer vaccine. The NYSDOH continues to expand on its prioritization and allocation framework based on recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC’s) Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP).
Providers must prioritize their health care workers, and hospitals must continue to prioritize unvaccinated health care workers from the 1A group, but may vaccinate any eligible person in 1A or 1B. Retail pharmacies or physician network or practice groups, after vaccinating their own patient-facing staff, should only vaccinate persons aged 65 years or older. Local Health Departments must prioritize the essential worker population in 1B.
- Vaccine Access for Persons Age 16 and Over Residing in Programs or Facilities
PDF Vaccine Access for Persons Age 16 and Over - February 22 - English
- Vaccine Access for Persons Age 16 and Over Residing in Programs or Facilities
Vaccination Program Guidelines
- Apr 6 - Guidance for The New York State COVID-19 Vaccination Program
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Effective April 6, individuals age 16 and older are eligible to be vaccinated in addition to all previously eligible groups.
- Vaccine Facility Guidance
PDF Vaccine Facility Guidance - Apr 6 - English
- Vaccine Facility Guidance
- Mar 23 - Guidance for The New York State COVID-19 Vaccination Program
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Effective March 23, individuals age 50 and older are eligible to be vaccinated, in addition to all previously eligible groups.
- Vaccine Facility Guidance
PDF Vaccine Facility Guidance - March 23 - English
- Vaccine Facility Guidance
- Mar 17 - Guidance for The New York State COVID-19 Vaccination Program
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Effective March 17, enrolled providers other than pharmacies, may vaccinate any eligible individual. Pharmacies must continue to vaccinate individuals age 60 and older, and prioritize P-12 school faculty and staff, and childcare worker per federal guidance, however are now authorized to vaccinate individuals with comorbidities or underlying conditions. All providers must make efforts to vaccinate the most vulnerable New Yorkers, including those with comorbidities or underlying conditions, and individuals 60+.
- Vaccine Facility Guidance
Word Vaccine Facility Guidance - March 17 | PDF Vaccine Facility Guidance - March 17 - English
- Vaccine Facility Guidance
- Mar 10 - Guidance for The New York State COVID-19 Vaccination Program
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Effective March 10, enrolled pharmacies must vaccinate only individuals age 60 and older, P-12 school faculty and staff, and childcare workers. Beginning March 17, enrolled providers other than pharmacies, may vaccinate any eligible individual.
- Vaccine Facility Guidance
PDF Vaccine Facility Guidance - March 10 - English
- Vaccine Facility Guidance
- Feb 28 - Guidance for The New York State COVID-19 Vaccination Program
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Limited amounts of COVID-19 vaccine are available for New York’s COVID-19 Vaccination Program. The amount of vaccine the state receives is based upon the allocation made to New York by the federal government. The New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) then determines state allocations to providers and entities who have enrolled to administer vaccine. Executive Order 202.91, as extended, also sets forth mandatory prioritization for vaccination by provider type.
- Vaccine Facility Guidance
PDF Vaccine Facility Guidance - February 28 - English
- Vaccine Facility Guidance
- Jan 12 - Guidance for The New York State COVID-19 Vaccination Program
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Limited amounts of COVID-19 vaccine are available for New York’s COVID-19 Vaccination Program. The amount of vaccine the state receives is based upon the allocation made to New York by the federal government. The New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) then determines state allocations to providers and entities who have enrolled to administer vaccine. The NYSDOH continues to expand on its prioritization and allocation framework based on recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC’s) Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP).
Providers must prioritize their health care workers, and hospitals must continue to prioritize unvaccinated health care workers from the 1A group, but may vaccinate any eligible person in 1A or 1B. Retail pharmacies or physician network or practice groups, after vaccinating their own patient-facing staff, should only vaccinate persons aged 65 years or older. Local Health Departments must prioritize the essential worker population in 1B.
- Guidance for Facilities Receiving COVID-19 Vaccine (updated January 12)
PDF Vaccine Guidance for Facilities - January 12 - English - Guidance for Vaccine Week 5 - OASAS / OCFS / OMH / OTDA (updated January 12)
Word Vaccine Guidance for OASES et alia - January 12 | PDF Vaccine Guidance for OASES et alia - January 12 - English
PDF Vaccine Guidance for OASES et alia - January 12 - Spanish - Spanish / Español
- Guidance for Facilities Receiving COVID-19 Vaccine (updated January 12)
Quarantine Guidelines
- Updated Quarantine Guidelines for Persons Exposed to COVID-19
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Summary
- This document supersedes the March 10, 2021 guidance on quarantine for community persons exposed to COVID-19.
- This update aligns the guidance with changes to the New York State Travel Advisory that go into effect on April 1, 2021 and recent updates from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on quarantine for the fully vaccinated and those who have recovered from COVID-19.
- Fully vaccinated is defined as being 2 weeks or more after either receipt of the second dose in a 2-dose series, or 2 weeks or more after receipt of one dose of a single-dose vaccine.
Masks and Protective Gear
- Options when Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is in Short Suppy or Not Available
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Healthcare entities should continue to submit requests for PPE through their local Office of Emergency Management. New York State continues to fulfill requests for PPE, as available. However, NYSDOH has become aware of instances in which healthcare providers, facilities, or practices are using or considering alternative means to manage PPE shortages…
- English PDF PPE Shortage - April 2
- Use of Cloth Masks in the Workplace
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Effective immediately, Office of Children and Family Services staff in occupations that provide direct care or otherwise interact with the public are permitted to wear an N95 respirator or surgical-type face mask in the workplace in response to the COVID-19 public health emergency.
Memo: Use of N95 Masks
- English: Word N95 Masks - April 8
Guidance: Use of N95 and Cloth Masks
- English: PDF Cloth Masks - April 8
- বাংলা/Bengali: PDF Cloth Masks - Bengali - April 8
- 中文/Chinese, traditional: PDF Cloth Masks - Chinese, traditional - April 8
- Kreyòl Ayisyen/Haitian Creole: PDF Cloth Masks - Haitian Creole - April 8
- 한국어/Korean: PDF Cloth Masks - Korean - April 8
- Pусский/Russian: PDF Cloth Masks - Russian - April 8
- Español/Spanish: PDF Cloth Masks - Spanish - April 8
- Use of Cloth Masks in Public
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On April 12, 2020, Governor Andrew M. Cuomo issued Executive Order 202.16. This order directs the use of face coverings by employees interacting with customers or members of the public. Specifically, for all essential businesses or entities, any employees who are present in the workplace shall be provided and shall wear face coverings when in direct interaction with customers or members of the public. Businesses must provide, at their expense, such face coverings for their employees. Child care programs are an essential business and therefore must comply with this directive.
Per the attached guidance, direct interaction “shall include any employee who is routinely within close contact (i.e. six feet or less) with members of the public, including but not limited to customers or clients”.
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Memorandum on Executive Order 202.16
English: PDF EO 202.16 Memo - April 14 -
Interim Guidance on Executive Order 202.16 Requiring Face Coverings in Public During the COVID-19 Outbreak
English: PDF Masks and Public Interaction - April 14
Effective at 8 p.m. on Friday, April 17, 2020 any individual who is over age two and able to medically tolerate a face-covering shall be required to cover their nose and mouth with a mask or cloth face-covering when in a public place and unable to maintain, or when not maintaining, social distance.
Interim Guidance on Executive Order 202.17 and 202.18 Requiring Face Coverings in Public During the COVID-19 Outbreak
- English: Word Masks and Public Interaction - April 17 | PDF Masks and Public Interaction - April 17
- বাংলা/Bengali: PDF Masks and Public Interaction - Bengali - April 17
- 中文/Chinese, Traditional: PDF Masks and Public Interaction - Chinese, traditional - April 17
- Kreyòl Ayisyen/Haitian Creole: PDF Masks and Public Interaction - Haitian Creole - April 17
- 한국어/Korean: PDF Masks and Public Interaction - Korean - April 17
- Pусский/Russian: PDF Masks and Public Interaction - Russian - April 17
- Español/Spanish: PDF Masks and Public Interaction - Spanish - April 17
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Memorandum on Executive Order 202.16
Cleaning
- Congregate Care Settings
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Now: Facilities should direct staff to continue performing routine cleaning. High-risk locations warrant cleaning and disinfection on a regular schedule.
If an individual with laboratory confirmed COVID-19 was symptomatic while in a congregate setting: Clean and disinfect throughout the area.
- Non-Healthcare Settings Where Individuals Under Movement Restriction for COVID-19 are Staying
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Selected travelers and individuals with potential exposure to confirmed COVID-19 cases will be placed under movement restrictions for as long as 14-days. Because facility staff may not be aware which individuals under movement restrictions are asymptomatic or symptomatic, cleaning of areas occupied by an individual under movement restriction should only proceed after consultation with the local health department (LHD).
- Primary and Secondary Schools
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Now:
Schools should continue performing routine cleaning. Specific routine cleaning. Specific high-risk locations warrant cleaning and disinfection at least daily.If an individual with laboratory confirmed COVID-19 was symptomatic in a school setting:
Cleaning and disinfection throughout the school.- English: PDFInterim School cleaning guidance - English
- বাংলা/Bengali: PDFInterim School cleaning guidance in Bengali
- 한국어/Korean: PDFInterim School cleaning guidance in Korean
- Pусский/Russian: PDFInterim School cleaning guidance in Russian
- Español/Spanish: PDFInterim School cleaning guidance in Spanish
Travel
- Current NYS COVID-19 Travel Advisory
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All New Yorkers must adhere to the travel guidelines, attached hereto, and available on the NYS DOH website. Please review the information contained in these important guidance documents.
Updates in the April 1st guidance include:
- Quarantine and testing are no longer required for asymptomatic domestic travelers as of April 1, 2021.
- Quarantine, consistent with the CDC recommendations for international travel, is still recommended for domestic travelers who are not fully vaccinated or have not recovered from laboratory confirmed COVID-19 during the previous 3 months.
- Restrictions on international travel are established by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
- NYS Travel Form must continue to be filled out by all travelers.
Resources:
- See the NYS DOH website for the most recent travel advisory updates and additional information.
- April 1st Travel Advisory Update
- NYS Traveller Health Form
- Prior NYS COVID-19 Travel Advisories
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- March 10th Travel Advisory
- November 17th Travel Restriction Guidance for Child Care Programs
English: November 17 child care travel memo PDF
Español/Spanish: November 17 Spanish travel memo PDF - November 3rd Travel Advisory
Guidance by Audience
Employer/Employee
- Revised Protocols for Personnel in Healthcare and Other Direct Care Settings to Return to Work Following COVID-19 Exposure – Including Quarantine and Furlough Requirements for Different Healthcare Settings
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This document supersedes the March 10, 2021 “Update to Interim Health Advisory: Revised Protocols for Personnel in Healthcare and Other Direct Care Settings to Return to Work Following COVID-19 Exposure-Including Quarantine and Furlough Requirements for Different Healthcare Settings.” The information contained herein supersedes such guidance and any other previous guidance related to fully vaccinated asymptomatic healthcare personnel (HCP) returning to work after exposure to COVID-19 or travel.
- Revised Guidance on COVID-19 Protocols for Direct Care Staff Return to Work
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Health Advisory: Revised Protocols for Personnel in Clinical and Direct Care Roles in Certain Designated Residential Settings ONLY to Return to Work Following COVID-19 Exposure or Infection.
This guidance applies to residential programs licensed or certified by the New York State Office for Children and Family Services (OCFS) specifically limited to, only:
- congregate foster care,
- runaway and homeless youth, and
- juvenile detention programs.
Revised Guidance on COVID-19 Protocols for Direct Care Staff Return to Work
Revised Guidance Protocols Direct Care Staff - Feb 2021 Word | Revised Guidance Protocols Direct Care Staff - Feb 2021 PDF- OCFS-5465 - Notification and Attestation: Direct Care Staff Return to Work During Quarantine
- Business Reopening Safety Plan Template
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Each business or entity, including those that have been designated as essential under Empire State Development's Essential Business Guidance, must develop a written Safety Plan outlining how its workplace will prevent the spread of COVID-19. A business may fill out this template to fulfill the requirement, or may develop its own Safety Plan.
- Employees at Risk
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To help prevent spread of COVID-19, procedures and supplies should be in place to encourage proper hand and respiratory hygiene and avoid close contact with people who are sick, and including staying home when you are sick.
- English PDF Employees at Risk - March 11
- Essential/Healthcare Personnel Returning to Work
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Public and private sector organizations that provide essential services or functions where personnel are needed to perform critical functions, including infrastructure, public safety, and other essential operations, may allow personnel who were exposed to or are recovering from COVID-19 to work in the workplace setting, if needed to maintain essential operations. Essential services or functions include but are not limited to public health personnel, utility and water operators, skilled manufacturers and supporting supply chains, transportation infrastructure, law enforcement, and emergency response personnel.
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Memo: Updated Protocols for Return-to-Work
English: Essential Staffing Guidance - March 30 - Word | Essential Staffing Guidance - March 30 - PDF -
March 31, 2020 Updated Protocols for Essential Personnel to Return to Work Following COVID-19 Exposure or Infection
English: Essential Staffing Guidance - March 31 - PDF -
June 3, 2020 Revised Protocols for Personnel in Healthcare and Other Direct Care Settings to Return to Work Following COVID-19 Exposure or Infection
English: Healthcare Staffing Guidance - June 03 - PDF
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Memo: Updated Protocols for Return-to-Work
- Public and Private Employees Returning to Work
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This interim guidance is intended to inform employers as restrictions on private and public sector activities are scaled back in different regions of the state throughout the COVID-19 public health emergency. This guidance is not intended for health care or nursing home professionals, which have separate protocols and guidance for staff to return to work.
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May 31 Protocols for Return-to-Work
English: Public and Private Employees Guidance - May 31 - PDF
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May 31 Protocols for Return-to-Work
- Travel Precautions
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- English: March 7 travel memo Word - March 7 travel memo PDF
This memorandum is a directive for employees of all State agencies and public authorities to utilize the following precautions while traveling. For travel within the United States, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has not limited or recommended canceling or postponing travel as a result of NOVEL CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19). While traveling, the CDC has recommended following routine precautions, including:
- Avoid contact with sick people.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.
- Clean your hands often by washing them with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains 60%–95% alcohol. Soap and water should be used if hands are visibly dirty. It is especially important to clean hands after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after coughing, sneezing, or blowing your nose.
Additionally, please be advised that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that travelers avoid all nonessential international travel to countries with Level 3 Health Notices, and cautions against high-risk travelers from traveling to countries with Level 2 Health Notices – listed below. In accordance with this recommendation from the CDC all New York State work-related employee travel to these countries is prohibited until further notice.
- China
- Iran
- Italy
- South Korea
- Japan
For more information about travel precautions, including a list of countries of concern, please visit the CDC’s travelers website.
For more on New York State’s response to novel coronavirus (COVID-19) please visit the NYS Department of Health coronavirus web site.
Child Care
Please also see General Guidance above.
- Interim Guidance on COVID-19 Test-Out for Public and Non-Public Schools Located in Areas Designated as “Red or Orange Micro-Cluster Zones” Under the New York State Micro-Cluster Action Initiative
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Under the authority of Executive Order 202.68, schools in red and orange zones must close in-person instruction for at least two weeks. On October 30, 2020, Governor Cuomo announced strict health guidelines, as detailed herein, for schools to reopen in red and orange cluster zones during this time in order to help keep schools in focus areas safely open to in person instruction. The guidelines require mass testing in schools before they reopen followed by intensive symptom and exposure screening conducted daily, as well as surveillance testing of 25% of the in-person student and faculty/staff weekly. New York State will provide rapid test kits upon request for schools wishing to participate.
- Guidance for Child Care Programs Located in Schools That are in COVID Red, Orange or Yellow Zones
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In response to concerns about increases in COVID-19 cases appearing in clusters within communities and regions of New York, Executive Order 202.68 mandated the New York State Department of Health (DOH) determine the areas of the State that require enhanced public health restrictions due to a cluster or clusters of COVID-19 cases. Once identified, DOH will classify the area based on the risk for compromising the States containment of the COVID-19 virus. Severe risk is identified as a “red zone”; moderate risk is identified as an “orange zone”; and precautionary risk is identified as a “yellow zone”.
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Guidance for Child Care Programs Located in Schools That are in COVID Red, Orange or Yellow Zones
English: October 19 school-based programs memo Word | October 19 school-based programs memo PDF
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Guidance for Child Care Programs Located in Schools That are in COVID Red, Orange or Yellow Zones
- 20-OCFS-ADM-06
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The purpose of this Administrative Directive (ADM) is to provide local social services districts (LSSDs) guidance regarding options available to expand the child care services that are provided under the New York State Child Care Block Grant to families affected by the novel coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2, and clarify how such waivers must be administered. Due to the current state of emergency, social distancing guidelines, and the widespread nature of this crisis, all families in New York State are considered to be impacted by the novel coronavirus, which causes COVID-19.
- English: Word 20-OCFS-ADM-06 | PDF 20-OCFS-ADM-06
- 20-OCFS-ADM-07
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The purpose of this Administrative Directive (ADM) is to inform local social services districts (LSSDs) of the distribution of federal funding through the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act to child care resource and referral (CCR&R) agencies to pay for child care assistance for income eligible essential workers during the COVID-19 pandemic.
- English: Word 20-OCFS-ADM-07 | PDF 20-OCFS-ADM-07
- 20-OCFS-INF-08
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The purpose of this Informational Letter (INF) is to reiterate certain important information for child care providers necessary for them to continue operations during the current public health emergency.
- English: Word 20-OCFS-INF-08
Download related forms:
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OCFS-6050 - Emergency Reservation Form
English: Word OCFS-6050
Español/Spanish: Word OCFS-6050-S - PDF OCFS-6050-S -
OCFS-6051 - Emergency Employment Attestation for Adults
English: Word OCFS-6051
Español/Spanish: Word OCFS-6051-S - PDF OCFS-6051-S
- 20-OCFS-INF-09
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The purpose of this Informational Letter (INF) is to reiterate certain important information for child care providers necessary for them to continue operations during the current public health emergency.
- English: Word 20-OCFS-INF-09 | PDF 20-OCFS-INF-09
- Updated 6/26/2020 - Interim Guidance for Child Care and Day Camp Programs
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The DOH interim guidance for child care and day care camp programs during the COVID-19 public health emergency has been updated to read:
- Responsible Parties must limit groups to 15 or fewer children/campers, excluding employees/staff, in a specific area (e.g. room) at any given time.
- Responsible Parties must ensure that different stable groups of up to 15 children/campers have no or minimal contact with one another or utilize common spaces at the same time, to the greatest extent possible.
Note: child care programs are still required to follow the staff/child ratios and maximum group sizes as set forth in regulation.
- Guidance for Child Care and Day Camp Programs
Available in English Guidance for Day Camp Programs | Bengali Guidance for Day Camp Programs | Chinese, traditional Guidance for Day Camp Programs | Haitian Creole Guidance for Day Camp Programs | Korean Guidance for Day Camp Programs | Russian Guidance for Day Camp Programs | Spanish Guidance for Day Camp Programs - Summary of Guidance for Child Care and Day Camp Programs
- Business Reopening Safety Plan Template June 26, 2020
Related Forms
- New CDC Supplemental Guidance on Child Care
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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has posted a Supplemental Guide for Child Care. Written in collaboration with the Offices of Child Care and Head Start for a variety of child care settings, this resource provides guidance specific to child care on issues such as:
- Social distancing;
- Child pick up and drop off procedures;
- Cleaning and disinfecting of toys and bedding;
- Safely caring for infants and toddlers; and
- Food preparation and meal service
In addition, the Guidance document provides numerous links to resources that provide even greater detail, including information regarding children’s risks concerning the coronavirus (COVID-19).
- Legally-Exempt Informal Child Care Guidance
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In response to the COVID-19 public health emergency and pursuant to Executive Order 202.5, issued by Governor Andrew M. Cuomo on March 18, 2020, the Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) has been granted the authority to waive certain background checks. This waiver allows legally exempt informal child care providers to enroll without completing the comprehensive background check process, subject to the certain conditions.
Legally-Exempt Informal Child Care Guidance: May 18 CC Guidance PDF
- Schools (Pre-K to 12)
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NYSDOH and NYSED are providing this guidance to update schools on next steps needed to respond to the COVID- 19 outbreak as well as recommend non-pharmaceutical interventions and community containment measures that reduce disease transmission in the community, including schools.
LDSS and Voluntary Agencies
Please also see General Guidance above.
- Adult Protective Services Staff
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Protocols for Adult Protective Services staff conducting investigations. Specific guidance and protocols on remote assessments, scheduling home visits, clients/contacts displaying symptoms and denial of home entry due to concerns of COVID-19 exposure.
- Background Check Requirements for Staff of OCFS-Licensed Certified Residential Programs For Youth
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The background check process required of residential programs for youth licensed or certified by the New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS), has been temporarily modified. This guidance is for all OCFS licensed and certified residential programs for youth, whose staff are subject to criminal background checks conducted by the Justice Center for the Protection of People with Special Needs.
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Interim Guidance on Background Check Requirements
English: PDF Background Check Requirements - April 10 -
Executive Order 202.13 – Criminal Background Check Request Form
English: PDF Background Check Request Form - April 10
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Interim Guidance on Background Check Requirements
- CFTSS Telehealth
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In response to concerns relating to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), the NYS DOH has authorized designated Children and Family Treatment and Support Services (CFTSS) to be provided via telehealth or telephonically whenever clinically appropriate to properly care for the patient. This temporary waiver will remain in effect until it is rescinded by the Department of Health.
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CFTSS telehealth provided under Medicaid State Plan Services
English: PDF CFTSS Telehealth - Medicaid - March 19 -
CFTSS telehealth for OMH-Funded Programs
English: PDF CFTSS Telehealth - OMH - March 19 -
CFTSS telehealth for OMH-Licensed or Funded Residential Programs
English: PDF CFTSS Telehealth - Residential - March 19 - Self-Attestation of Compliance to Offer Telehealth & Telemental Health Services
English: Word Self-Attestation - March 19
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CFTSS telehealth provided under Medicaid State Plan Services
- Child Protective Services Staff
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Protocols for Child Protective Services staff conducting investigations. Specific guidance and protocols on remote assessments, scheduling home visits, client/contacts displaying symptoms, denial of home entry dues to concerns of COVID-19 exposure and removal of children exposed to or diagnosed with COVID-19.
- CONNECTIONS Guidelines: Delayed Permanency Planning Hearings
- Domestic Violence Residential Programs: Requesting a Waiver to the Maximum Length of Stay
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On March 27, 2020, Governor Andrew M. Cuomo signed Executive Order 202.11, allowing domestic violence (DV) residential programs to continue to serve victims of domestic violence who need to exceed the maximum length of stay for residential programs.
- English: PDF DV Waiver - April 8
- Fire Drills
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During the COVID‐19 crisis, the temporary interpretation will allow for staff and youth to discuss the program’s fire drill procedures and log this conversation in place of what would normally be a full drill. When the crisis is over, programs will be required to resume full fire drills.
- English: PDF Fire Drills - March 30
- Foster Care and Preventive Staff
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Protocols for Foster Care and Preventive staff conducting casework contacts. Specific guidance and protocols on remote case work contacts, scheduling casework contacts, parents/caregivers/household members displaying symptoms, movement of children diagnosed with or exposed to COVID-19, enhanced supports for parents/caregivers and visitation.
- Foster Care Agency and Detention Programs - Youth Supervision
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This guidance allows for temporary adjustments in staffing patterns and training requirements to meet the needs of the program. Any temporary policy revisions and local practice adjustments sought under this guidance are to address exigent circumstances, and must continue to meet the needs of the youth in your programs and not jeopardize the safety of youth and staff.
Download related forms and documents:
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Chart of required staff ratios for CWCS programs
English: Word CWCS staff ratios - PDF CWCS staff ratios -
Form to request change of staffing for CWCS programs
English: Word CWCS exception form - PDF CWCS exception form -
Form to request change of staffing for detention or CTH programs
English: Word CTH exception form ] [ PDF CTH exception form
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Chart of required staff ratios for CWCS programs
- Foster Care Re-Entry Program
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In response to the COVID-19 public health emergency, OCFS has developed a re-entry program for those who have aged out of foster care during the pandemic. Below is a file with two flyers with information on the program.
- Foster Parent Certification and Reauthorization Guidance
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In response to the COVID-19 public health emergency, OCFS has developed this guidance to assist local departments of social services and voluntary agencies in completing new foster parent certification and annual reauthorizations for certified or approved foster boarding homes. This guidance is effective for the duration of the emergency, unless explicitly stated otherwise.
- Health Care Providers and Local Health Departments
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Appropriate and efficient standards for testing are an essential component of a multilayered strategy to prevent sustained spread of COVID-19 in New York State and to ensure resources are being efficiently distributed. Testing capacity for COVID-19 in New York State is being increased on a daily basis. However, until such time as we are at full capacity, this guidance is necessary to ensure that New York State prioritizes the resources to meet the most urgent public health need.
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Updated Interim Testing Guidance: Protocol for COVID-19 testing with prioritization by job title/role
English: April 26 Updated Testing Guidance PDF
বাংলা/Bengali: PDF April 26 Bengali Updated Testing Guidance
中文/Chinese, traditional: PDF April 26 Chinese (traditional) Updated Testing Guidance
Kreyòl Ayisyen/Haitian Creole: PDF April 26 Haitian Creole Updated Testing Guidance
한국어/Korean: PDF April 26 Korean Updated Testing Guidance
Pусский/Russian: PDF April 26 Russian Updated Testing Guidance
Español/Spanish: PDF April 26 Spanish Updated Testing Guidance -
COVID-19 Interim Testing Guidance: Protocol for COVID-19 Testing Applicable to All Health Care Providers and Local Health Departments
English: March 8 Interim Testing Guidance Word - March 8 Interim Testing Guidance PDF
Español: Guía provisional para las pruebas de COVID-19 en Word — Guía provisional para las pruebas de COVID-19 en PDF
Chinese, simplified: 临时指南:COVID-19 检测规范 PDF
Chinese, traditional: 臨時準則:COVID-19 檢測方案 PDF -
COVID-19 Interim Containment Guidance: Precautionary Quarantine, Mandatory Quarantine and Mandatory Isolation Applicable to all Local Health Departments
English: March 8 Interim Containment Guidance Word - March 8 Interim Containment Guidance PDF
Español: Guía provisional de contención de COVD-19 en Word - Guía provisional de contención de COVD-19 en Word PDF
Chinese, simplified: 临时防控指南:预防性居家隔离、强制性居家隔离和强制性医学隔离 PDF
Chinese, traditional: 臨時防控準則:預防性檢疫、強制性檢疫和強制性隔離 PDF
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Updated Interim Testing Guidance: Protocol for COVID-19 testing with prioritization by job title/role
- Availability of Waivers and Suspensions of the HOME Program Requirements
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The suspensions and waivers provided in this memorandum will allow PJs to use HOME funds for TBRA to individuals and families experiencing financial hardship as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, including 1) providing immediate rental assistance to individuals and families seeking housing, 2) assisting households that have housing but face reduced or lost wages, and 3) assisting existing TBRA families that need additional assistance due to reduced or lost wages.
- Suspensions and Waivers to Facilitate Use of HOME-Assisted Tenant-Based Rental Assistance (TBRA)
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The suspensions and waivers provided in this memorandum will allow PJs to use HOME funds for TBRA to individuals and families experiencing financial hardship as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, including 1) providing immediate rental assistance to individuals and families seeking housing, 2) assisting households that have housing but face reduced or lost wages, and 3) assisting existing TBRA families that need additional assistance due to reduced or lost wages.
- Homeless and Supportive Housing: Operators / Referring Organizations
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Congregate facilities, such as shelters for individuals experiencing homelessness, are especially at risk for the spread of communicable diseases due to the number of individuals living in close proximity. Facility operators must take steps to minimize the risk of an outbreak of COVID-19. Please review this information with your program’s leadership and staff and make necessary adjustments to your program policies and protocols.
- English: PDF Shelters and Supportive Housing - March 10
- বাংলা/Bengali: PDF Shelters and Supportive Housing - March 10 (Bengali)
- 中文/Chinese, traditional: PDF Shelters and Supportive Housing - March 10 (Chinese)
- Kreyòl Ayisyen / Haitian Creole: PDF Shelters and Supportive Housing - March 10 (Haitian Creole)
- 한국어/Korean: PDF Shelters and Supportive Housing - March 10 (Korean)
- Pусский/Russian: PDF Shelters and Supportive Housing - March 10 (Russian)
- Español/SpanishPDF Shelters and Supportive Housing - March 10 (Spanish)
- Isolation or Quarantine
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The following guidance for residential programs and domestic violence shelters licensed or certified by OCFS is based on the most current CDC and DOH recommendations for prevention of the spread of the novel coronavirus of 2019 disease (COVID-19) and the management of Persons Under Investigation (PUI) for COVID-19. Specific guidance for isolation or quarantine protocol, including required notification, is documented.
- Residential Programs for Youth - Youth and Family Visition
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This guidance is intended to build on and refine the guidance provided on March 20, 2020 regarding visitation with parents and siblings. Previous OCFS guidance provided Foster Care and Preventive Staff direction related to youth and family visitation during the COVID-19 public health emergency. That guidance, while not restricting nor relaxing any of the relevant regulatory/statutory requirements related to youth and family visitations, provided for alternate means of such visitation including virtual platforms. This guidance was aimed to safeguard and maintain the health and wellbeing of youth, families, and staff while containing the spread of COVID-19 during the State’s initial phase of the pandemic. After the successful efforts by New Yorkers to flatten the curve and reduce virus transmission, OCFS recognizes the need for youth and families to begin resuming other types of contact with one another in a planful manner, as safely as possible. Below are some considerations when planning for contacts and visits with family who will be physically present with the child in care.
- Guidance for Counties and Residential Programs for Youth Licensed by NYS Office of Children and Family Services Division of Child Welfare and Community Services
English: PDF Guidance for Youth Program - July 15
- Guidance for Counties and Residential Programs for Youth Licensed by NYS Office of Children and Family Services Division of Child Welfare and Community Services
- Respite Services: Guidance for 1915(c) Children's Waiver
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As outlined in the Guidance for Home and Community–Based Services (HCBS) Providers Serving Children/Youth Under the 1915(c) Children´s Waiver Related to COVID–19, if a waiver participant chooses not to have a face-to-face meeting or a determination is made that a face-to-face meeting is not appropriate during the COVID-19 public health emergency, the Respite provider may deliver the service remotely following telehealth guidance.
- Guidance for 1915(c) Children's Waiver
English: PDF Guidance for 1915(c) Children's Waiver - March 20
- Guidance for 1915(c) Children's Waiver
- Runaway and Homeless Youth (RHY) - Regulatory Relief
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Due to the novel coronavirus, COVID-19, programs may need to take extra precautions and make unique exceptions to best protect the health and safety of youth in their care and community.
- Guidance on RHY Regulatory Relief
English: Word Guidance on RHY Regulatory Relief - March 20 | PDF Guidance on RHY Regulatory Relief - March 20 - RHY Temporary Variance Request Form
English: Word RHY Temporary Variance Request Form
- Guidance on RHY Regulatory Relief
- Tuberculosis Testing, Changes in Regulatory Requirements
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Guidance for Local Department of Social Services and Voluntary Authorized Agencies Regarding Changes in Regulatory Requirements for Tuberculosis Testing.
- Regulatory Text: PDF Regulatory Text - May 29
- Visitation to Congregate Care Settings in the Red and Orange Zones
- Visitor Screening for Community-Based Visits
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Be sure to ask all clients or applicable family members the following 3 questions: Have you traveled to a country for which the CDC has issued a Level 2 or 3 travel designation within the last 14 days?; Have you had contact with any Persons Under Investigation (PUIs) for COVID-19 within the last 14 days, OR with anyone with known COVID-19?; and Do you have any symptoms of a respiratory infection?
- Visitor Screening for Residential Programs
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The following guidance is based on the most current Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and NYS Department of Health (DOH) recommendations for prevention of the spread of the novel coronavirus 2019 disease (COVID-19) and the management of Persons Under Investigation (PUI). Specific additional guidance for residential programs is also included.
Parents
- Guidance for Parents
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In recent weeks, OCFS has shared information with child care programs regarding ways to respond to novel coronavirus (COVID-19). This document contains important information and resources to assist parents who are looking for child care.
- English: Word Guidance for Parents - March 11 - PDF Guidance for Parents - March 11
- 中文 / Chinese, simplified: March 11 - 家长寻求托儿服务的指南 Word - March 11 - 家长寻求托儿服务的指南 PDF.
- 中文 / Chinese, traditional: March 11 - 父母尋找托兒服務指南 Word - March 11 - 父母尋找托兒服務指南 PDF.
- Español/Spanish: March 11 - Orientación para padres en Word - March 11 - Orientación para padres en PDF.
- Navigating K-12 Educational Challenges During the COVID-19 Pandemic
- Planning for Your Children in Case of Hospitalization or Quarantine
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What you can do as a parent to plan for your children in case you and your partner are quarantined or hospitalized due to COVID-19 related concerns
It may be challenging for both you and your child should they need to be separated from you due to quarantine or hospitalization as a result of COVID-19 related concerns. Such separation, and the anxiety you will both feel, can be lessened by taking some steps ahead of time. Most importantly, you want to make sure your child or children will be well cared for during any period where you are unable to care for them yourself. As a parent you are allowed, by law, to designate another individual or individuals to care for your child in such situations. The form to complete in that circumstance is OCFS Form 4940. Instructions are included at the end of the form.
Information you should have on hand for yourself or other designated caregiver
Start thinking about how to keep track of important documents that you would like to access or have others access in your absence. Important documents could include:
- Parental designation form
- Court orders/Custody Orders
- Child’s birth certificate
- Medical records (appointments, prescriptions, immunizations, etc.)
- School records
- Insurance records
- Social Security information
Other Resources
COVID Information
- NYS Department of Health’s coronavirus website
- CDC’s coronavirus website
- NYS Department of Health’s directory of local health departments
- NYS Department of Environmental Conservation disinfection product registration directory
Federal Resources
- CDC COVID-19 Vaccine Information and FAQ
- Federal Programs that Support Individuals Experiencing Homelessness
- HUD COVID-19 Resources
- COVID-19 Rural Resource Guide
Help for Parents
Resources for the Blind
- American Council of the Blind - COVID 19 Response
- National Federation of the Blind - COVID-19 Resources