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This page contains an archive of resources and guidance created in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Information here may be outdated and links may no longer function.
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
General Guidance
Vaccine Guidelines
- COVID Information and FAQ from the CDC
- Guidance for COVID-19 Vaccine Access for Persons Age 5 to 17
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Local departments of social services (LDSS) and provider agencies operating OCFS licensed or certified residential programs including foster care, close to home, detention, homeless youth programs, and domestic violence shelters must prepare for vaccination of any youth age 5 or over against the COVID-19 virus. This guidance also applies to LDSS and voluntary agencies regarding foster children residing in certified or approved foster homes and pre-adoptive homes.
- Learning about the COVID-19 Vaccine: Basics and More
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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.
- One Page COVID Info Summary
- Learning about the COVID-19 Vaccine (Presentation)
Learning about the COVID-19 Vaccine PDF - English
Learning about the COVID-19 Vaccine (Spanish) PDF - Spanish
- 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 - Dr. Zucker Letter to Providers
PDF Dr. Zucker Letter to Providers - March 1 - English
- 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
- Vaccine Access for Persons Age 16 and Over in Programs/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
- Current Guidance for New York State COVID-19 Vaccination Programs
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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
- Prior Guidance for New York State COVID-19 Vaccination Programs
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March 23, 2021
Effective March 23, individuals age 50 and older are eligible to be vaccinated, in addition to all previously eligible groups.
- PDF Vaccine Facility Guidance - March 23 - English
March 17, 2021
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+.
March 10, 2021
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.
- PDF Vaccine Facility Guidance - March 10 - English
February 28, 2021
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.
January 12, 2021
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
Quarantine Guidelines
- Update to Health Advisory: Quarantine for Community Persons Exposed to COVID-19
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Update to Health Advisory: Quarantine for Community Persons Exposed to COVID-19
- 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.
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
Guidance by Audience
Employer/Employee
- DOH Advisory on Shortening Isolation Period
- 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 Protocols Direct Care Staff
- OCFS-5465 - Notification and Attestation: Direct Care Staff Return to Work During Quarantine
- 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.
DJJOY
Please also see General Guidance above.
- Memo: Modification of Mask Requirements at OCFS-Operated Facilities
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As of June 10, 2022, staff and youth at OCFS facilities are no longer required to wear masks, except in the situations outlined in this Memo. Visitors are also no longer required to wear masks at OCFS facilities.
- Memo: Visitation at OCFS Facilities- Summer 2022 (Revised July 19)
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Review the following protocols thoroughly; there are several changes from past visitation guidance. Facilities and CMSOs should review the expectations of this guidance with families.
- Memo: Updated Mask and Face Covering Directive
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This memo reflects current face covering and PPE requirements and applies to DJJOY staff working at OCFS facilities.
- Youth Intake to DJJOY Programs - Availability of Rapid Testing for COVID-19
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OOCFS’ ability to offer youth a rapid COVID-19 test (see Availability of COVID-19 Rapid Tests for Facility Staff and Youth, issued July 29, 2021) demands a modification to intake quarantine procedures. The following is updated guidance on intake and quarantine procedures for youth admitted to DJJOY-operated facilities. This guidance will also be incorporated into Guidelines for the Use of Personal Protective Equipment / Quarantine and Isolation Protocol, issued February 23, 2021.
- Youth Intake to DJJOY Programs - Availability of Rapid Testing for COVID-19
English: PDF Youth Intake - Availability of Rapid Testing for COVID-19
- Youth Intake to DJJOY Programs - Availability of Rapid Testing for COVID-19
- Memo - Youth Vaccination Assent and Consent 9-29-21
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OCFS considers vaccination against COVID-19 a routine medical service. A youth who is age 16 and older and in the custody of OCFS may provide their own informed assent (applies to youth under age 18) or informed consent (applies to youth over age 18) to be vaccinated against COVID-19. The youth’s informed assent/consent is determinative.
- Memo - Youth Vaccination Assent and Consent 9-29-21
English: PDF Youth Vaccination Assent and Consent - September 29
- Memo - Youth Vaccination Assent and Consent 9-29-21
- Amendment to Availability of COVID-19 Rapid Tests for Facility Staff and Youth
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This notice amends the implementation portion of Availability of COVID-19 Rapid Tests for Facility Staff and Youth, issued July 29, 2021.
- Amendment to Availability of COVID-19 Rapid Tests for Facility Staff and Youth
English: PDF Staff Testing Administration Amendment - Aug 30
- Amendment to Availability of COVID-19 Rapid Tests for Facility Staff and Youth
- Amendment to COVID-19, Youth in Residential Care, and Face Coverings/Masks
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On August 27, 2021, the NYS Department of Health (DOH) issued Commissioner's Determination on Indoor Masking Pursuant to 10 NYCRR 2.61 (DOH Determination). The following are important findings from the DOH Determination that amend the current DJJOY guidance COVID-19, Youth in Residential Care, and Face Coverings/Masks. This amendment applies to youth residing at OCFS facilities.
- Amendment to COVID-19, Youth in Residential Care, and Face Coverings/Masks
English: PDF Youth Masking Updates - Sep 3
- Amendment to COVID-19, Youth in Residential Care, and Face Coverings/Masks
- Availability of COVID-19 Rapid Tests for Facility Staff and Youth
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OCFS facilities have been approved to offer rapid COVID-19 testing (the Abbott BinaxNOW COVID-19 Ag Card test) to both facility staff and youth. Testing will be used to identify and respond to possible asymptomatic cases of COVID-19 in DJJOY facilities. COVID-19 testing is voluntary for both staff and youth.
- Availability of COVID-19 Rapid Tests for Facility Staff and Youth
English: PDF Rapid Tests for Facilities - August 9
- Availability of COVID-19 Rapid Tests for Facility Staff and Youth
- BHS COVID-19 Q&A Mailbox for Facility Questions Related to Youth
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DJJOY has created a process for facilities to submit COVID-19-related questions connected to work with and care of youth in facilities.
- BHS COVID-19 Q&A Mailbox for Facility Questions
English: PDF Q&A Mailbox - August 31
- BHS COVID-19 Q&A Mailbox for Facility Questions
- Facility Cleanliness
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Cleaning activities must be documented per PPM 3500.00 Facility Cleanliness. The related approved Local Operating Procedure must reflect each facility’s local process.
- Facility Cleaning and Documentation
English: PDF COVID Screening Questions - November 9
- Facility Cleaning and Documentation
- Juvenile Justice Basic Training
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DJJOY halted Basic Academy Training (BAT) for several months due to COVID-19. Having untrained staff on the floor puts the safety and security of staff, as well as youth, at risk. As a result, DJJOY will resume JJBT training in late August 2020, with a thorough safety plan in place, a modified schedule to reduce overnights, some modules moved to computer-based training, smaller in-person cohort sizes, and a focus on the core competencies that permit staff to work with and engage with youth at facilities.
- Juvenile Justice Basic Training (JJBT) and COVID-19 Precautions and Safety
English: PDF JJBT - August 7
- Juvenile Justice Basic Training (JJBT) and COVID-19 Precautions and Safety
- Masks and Face Coverings
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February 2, 2021
Consistent with CDC guidance and in accordance with Executive Order 202.16, since April 16, 2020, all staff working at an OCFS facility must wear a protective face mask or covering while at work. Staff must wear face masks/coverings in accordance with the CDC guidance.
- Revised Face Mask/Covering Expectations and PPE for Staff
English: PDF DJJOY Revised Mask - February 2
February 23, 2021
- Revised Guidelines for the Use of Personal Protective Equipment / Quarantine and Isolation Protocol
English: PDF DJJOY Revised Mask Quarantine - February 23
January 22, 2021
As stated in memorandum, Wearing N95 Respirator or Surgical Type Face Mask in the Workplace, dated April 8, 2020, facility staff are permitted to bring and wear their own N95 respirators. DJJOY has further revised PPE guidance to include provisions for the use of OCFS-issued and fit tested N95 respirators.
- Access to Fit Testing for OCFS-issued N95 Respirators
English: PDF DJJOY Fit Testing - January 22
Oct 7, 2020
Effective immediately, facilities should provide face coverings/masks to youth when they are unable or unlikely to maintain 6 feet of social distance from others (e.g., staff, visitors, other youth), and when they are engaging in facility-wide activities or events. Also, if youth are intentionally or effectively cohorted, they should wear a mask when programming with any other cohort.
- COVID-19, Youth in Residential Care, and Face Coverings/Masks
English: PDF DJJOY Face Coverings - Youth - October 7
July 21, 2020
Where staff do not comply with these mandates and have not been granted a reasonable accommodation, facilities should first coordinate with Labor Relations, who will reach out to the local union to encourage the employee to comply with the directives. If the employee still fails to comply, facilities should reach out to Labor Relations to discuss pursuing a notice of suspension.
- Facility Measures and Refusal of Mask/Face Covering Directives
English: PDF DJJOY Refusal of Face Coverings - July 21
July 20, 2020
- Guidelines for the Use of Personal Protective Equipment / Quarantine and Isolation Protocol
English: PDF DJJOY Mask Quarantine - July 20
July 14, 2020
Effective immediately and until further notice, all staff working at an OCFS facility must wear a protective face mask or covering in accordance with Executive Order 202.16 and the fight against COVID-19.
- Face Mask/Covering Expectations and PPE for Staff
English: PDF DJJOY Mask - July 14
- Revised Face Mask/Covering Expectations and PPE for Staff
- Recreation at OCFS Facilities: No-, Limited-, and Close-Contact Sports
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Staff must continue to do recreational programming for youth that focuses on individual skill building and encourages social distance (e.g. streaming/video fitness, video games that encourage movement, etc.), including no-contact sports.
- Recreation at OCFS Facilities
English: PDF DJJOY Recreation - November 10
- Recreation at OCFS Facilities
- Screening Guidelines, Questions and Scripts
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- COVID Screening Guidelines
English: PDF DJJOY Screening Guidelines - December 4 - COVID Screening Questions
English: PDF DJJOY Screening Questions - December 4 - COVID Front Door/Gate Script
English: PDF DJJOY Front Door Script - December 4
- COVID Screening Guidelines
- Protocols for Mandatory Temperature Checks
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All person(s) seeking admission to the facility are required to have their temperature taken with a touchless thermometer, prior to being able to continue through the regular entry and contraband screening processes.
- Mandatory Temperature Checks
English: PDF DJJOY Temperature Checks - June 5
- Mandatory Temperature Checks
- Out-of-State Travel Guidelines and Leave for DJJOY Essential Staff
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Facility administration has the discretion to disapprove or approve leave when aware that the leave is for or related to travel to a restricted state.
- Out-of-State Travel Guidelines and Leave for DJJOY Essential Staff
English: PDF DJJOY Travel Guidelines - July 21
- Out-of-State Travel Guidelines and Leave for DJJOY Essential Staff
- Vaccine Access
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February 27, 2021
OCFS is glad to announce that eligible facility staff and youth may now be vaccinated at one of several NYS Office of Mental Health (OMH) vaccination sites, by using OMH’s online scheduling system (O-LOV).
- OCFS/OMH Partnership for Direct Access to OMH Vaccine Sites for Facility Staff and Eligible Youth
English: PDF OMH partnership - February 27
January 11, 2021
As of January 11, 2021, only DJJOY staff who work in residential facilities with direct and regular youth interaction are included in Phase 1A of the vaccine prioritization. Youth and other DJJOY non-facility staff will be included in a later phase, to be addressed at that time.
- Phase 1A COVID-19 Vaccine Access for Facility Staff
English: PDF Phase 1A Access - January 11 - Phase 1A COVID-19 Vaccine Access: Facility Staff How To
English: PDF Phase 1A Access How To - January 11
- OCFS/OMH Partnership for Direct Access to OMH Vaccine Sites for Facility Staff and Eligible Youth
- Visits and Televisits
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April 9, 2021
Beginning April 12, 2021, any facility that has not had a known case of COVID (defined at [I][A] below) can resume limited in-person visitation according to the procedures outlined in this guidance.
- Limited In-Person Visitation at OCFS Facilities
English: PDF Limited Visitation - April 9
December 1, 2020
Due to increasing COVID-19 cases across the state, the decision has been made to modify all visitation to televisits in OCFS facilities effective immediately. The safety of youth and staff remains in the forefront. This change in practice will be evaluated weekly and will remain in effect until further notice.
- Modification of Visits to Televisit
English: PDF Televisits - December 1
November 17, 2020
As of the date of this notice, for any facility where there is a known case of COVID-19—whether among youth or staff—all in-person visits are modified to televisits until further notice.
- Modification of Visits to Televisit
English: PDF Televisits - November 7
July 21, 2020
All visitors must obtain gate clearance prior to traveling to the facility by notifying their facility contact or designee.
- Resuming Visitation at OCFS Facilities
English: PDF Resuming Visits - July 21
June 29, 2020
As we move forward, facilities should expand the use of video cameras for direct visits with families, youth attorneys, outside service providers, and OCFS programs—including CMSO staff and the Office of the Ombudsman (OOTO).
- Video Visitation with Youth at OCFS Facilities
English: PDF Televisits - June 29
- Limited In-Person Visitation at OCFS Facilities
LDSS and Voluntary Agencies
The below archived documents are made available as a reference and resource only. Please see 23-OCFS-INF-07, Notice of Termination of COVID-19 Related Flexibilities and Guidance for Child Welfare and Adult Protective Programs for additional information.
Please also see General Guidance above.
- APS Contacts Letter: Updated COVID-19 Guidance for Investigations and Casework Contacts by Local Districts of Social Services
- Part 338. Congregate Care COVID-19 Prevention and Protection Program
- COVID-19 Guidance for Foster Parent Certification and Reauthorization
- Protocols for Direct Care Staff to Return to Work Following a COVID-19 Exposure (Revised 12/06/21)
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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.
- COVID-19 Protocols for Direct Care Staff to Return to Work Following a COVID-19 Exposure
English: PDF COVID-19 Protocols for Direct Care Staff to Return to Work Following a COVID-19 Exposure - Revised December 6, 2021
- COVID-19 Protocols for Direct Care Staff to Return to Work Following a COVID-19 Exposure
- Mandatory Face Coverings in Congregate Care Settings
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With the recent spike in COVID-19 infections, prevention strategies remain critical to protect children, adults, and staff. Therefore, effective September 16, 2021, OCFS has implemented an emergency regulation mandating all people in congregate programs wear a face covering indoors.
- Mandatory Face Coverings in Congregate Care Settings, Letter
English: PDF Mandatory Face Coverings in Congregate Care Settings, Letter - September 16 - Mandatory Face Coverings in Congregate Care Settings, Regulatory Language
English: PDF Mandatory Face Coverings in Congregate Care Settings, Regulatory Language - September 16
- Mandatory Face Coverings in Congregate Care Settings, Letter
- 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.
- 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, the Governor 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
- 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 COVID-19 en Word - Guía provisional de contención de COVID-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)
- Health Advisory: Quarantine for Residents of Non-Healthcare Congregate Settings Exposed to Covid-19
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This advisory aligns with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Interim Public Health Recommendations for Fully Vaccinated People issued on April 29, 2021 as it relates to fully vaccinated residents of non-healthcare congregate settings.
- 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
- 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
- Making Masks Fun: Helping Your Child Wear a Face Mask
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- Making Masks Fun! Tips for Getting Kids to Embrace Face Coverings amid the Coronavirus Pandemic - Little Medical School
- 9 Tips to Help Your Child Wear a Mask - PBS for Parents
- Arthur | Wearing a Mask - PBS Kids
- Baby Joy Joy | Put On Your Mask - Baby Joy Joy Early Learning
- Fluffster Wears a Mask - Sesame Street
- More mask videos for parents and kids - YouTube Search
En Español
- 9 consejos para ayudar a su niño a usar una mascarilla - PBS for Parents
- Fluffster usa una máscara - Sesame Street
- Usa tu máscara | Baby Shark
- Más videos de máscaras para padres e hijos - Bing Search
- Navigating K-12 Educational Challenges During the COVID-19 Pandemic
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
Federal Resources
Help for Parents
- Central New York Diaper Bank
- National Diaper Bank
- Find Meals for Kids When Schools are Closed
- H.E.A.R.S. Family Line
Resources for the Blind
- American Council of the Blind - COVID 19 Response
- National Federation of the Blind - COVID-19 Resources