Covid-19 (Coronavirus) Health Information

General Information

The emergence of the county’s first positive case was expected and with proper action can be slowed.  The actions of individuals and businesses remains the same: Personal Protection, Social Distancing, Environmental Controls. These actions need to be done to protect health and slow the rate of transmission of the novel coronavirus COVID-19.  Epidemiological investigation of close contacts will determine those at increased risk and those contacts will be directed to take appropriate actions as needed.

To remain in compliance with the Health Insurance Portability And Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), as well as, state and local regulations the Hamilton County Health Department will not release information on individual patients.  Additionally, the health department will not release information on travelers who have been advised to self-quarantine as a result of recent travels. We appreciate the community’s willingness to respect individual’s privacy.

Public Inquires Hotline (3/15/2020)

The Indiana State Department of Health has established a hotline for general public questions.  Please contact  the ISDH Epidemiology Resource Center at 877-826-0011 24/7 or e-mail epiresource@isdh.in.gov

COVID-19 Frequently Asked Questions

Essential Business Complaint Enforcement

Executive Order 20-18 on April 7, 2002, if this new order is not followed, the Indiana State Department of Health and the Enforcement Response Team created by the executive order can take action against businesses.

The Indiana Occupational Safety and Health Agency (IOSHA) is now taking ALL complaints. Reports of suspected violations can be filed by clicking on this link: IN Dept of Laber 

How will this new order be enforced?

First, a verbal warning will be given. If the business fails to comply with the verbal warning, the Indiana State Department of Health may issue a cease and desist letter.

If the business continues to operate, the Indiana State Department of Health can order the business to close. The business will be reported to the Secretary of State and to any relevant licensing, permitting, or certifying board, commission or other entity, and the business could lose its operating license or permit. Additionally, if an order to close a business is issued, a local prosecuting attorney may file charges for violating the executive order issued under Indiana’s Emergency Disaster Law.

The determination of Essential and Non-essential businesses should be directed to the Critical Industries Hotline by email: covidresponse@iedc.in.gov

State of Indiana and Hamilton County Guidance Documents

The Hamilton County Health Department follows the established recommendations established by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Indiana State Department of Health.  Please use following these recommendations to protect yourself and others from transmitting this virus.  

CORONAVIRUS vs. COLD, FLU and ALLERGIES

  1. Coronavirus vs Cold, Flu and Allergies (PDF)

Protect yourself and your community from COVID-19.

3 Ways of Protection and preventing virus spread

  1. Personal Protection - It’s Simple  Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom, before eating, and after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Avoid close contact with people who are sick and stay home when you are sick.
  2. Social Distancing - For most people, the immediate risk of being exposed to the virus that causes COVID-19 is thought to be low. Understand the virus and conduct a self risk assessment as to whether to attend mass gathering events.    If Community Spread of the virus occurs and risk levels elevate, local decisions will be made as to postponing or temporarily suspending large gathering events.
  3. Environmental protections - Increase your efforts to clean and sanitize "high touch" point surfaces with an EPA approved product,   wear disposable gloves as extra layer of protection during cleaning activities and wash hands afterwards.

CDC Preventive Measures

The Hamilton County Health Department follows the established recommendations established by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Indiana State Department of Health.  Please use following these recommendations to protect yourself and others from transmitting this virus.  

For Individuals

 CDC’s website for Individual Protection 

For Healthcare Providers

CDC’s website for Healthcare Providers.

For Long-Term Healthcare Facilities

CDC’s website for Long-Term Healthcare Facilities

For Business

CDC’s website for Businesses

For Schools

CDC’s website for Schools