Novel Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) is quickly spreading across the nation. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Ohio Department of Health (ODH), there will likely be more cases to follow. As we prepare to address this growing concern, we wanted to share some information with you.

If you become aware of an unanticipated hospitalization or death related to COVID-19, please report it specifically in the Incident Tracking System (ITS), so we can track the number of cases involving people with disabilities who we support. We have added a drop-down for these categories labeled "COVID-19."

Collecting this specific information will allow us to identify any statewide patterns or trends associated with the virus. We will be able to share this information with you to assure we are all working collectively to protect and prevent the spread of this dangerous illness.

We understand that many of you are developing different work options (office closures, teleworking, and reporting lines) to address health and welfare needs during this difficult time. Please share information on any major unusual incident (MUI) process changes with your regional manager, so we can work collaboratively to meet the needs of our stakeholders.

In addition, we want you to be healthy and safe as you do your important jobs. Learn more from the CDC's community guidance.

 Also, DODD has set up a dedicated web page for department communications and links to helpful resources that will advise people with disabilities, their families, service providers, direct support professionals, county boards of developmental disabilities, and the community at large.

For specific questions about COVID-19 and additional information and resources, DODD urges you to use the Ohio Department of Health’s call center. Call 1-833-4-ASK-ODH (1-833-427- 5634), or visit coronavirus.ohio.gov.

Thank you for the important work you do every day to protect the people we support throughout Ohio. Your efforts are truly appreciated.

To keep updated, please subscribe to DODD publications.

 Sincerely, 

The Major Unusual Incident and Registry Unit