Orleans county health department perc test application

In response to all the concerns and ongoing news about the international outbreak of Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19), we’re adding this web page to make sure that Genesee and Orleans County residents have the most up-to-date and comprehensive information possible about this fluid situation.

Our Health Department team continues to receive regular updates from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH). Our team is in constant communication with our regional and local partners including emergency management, health care providers, first responders and law enforcement to ensure we have the appropriate resources and response plans in place if the COVID-19 virus continues to spread and is found locally in our communities.

Our primary goal is to be timely and transparent with factual information and to relay that information so our residents can make informed decisions to protect yourself and your families.

The primary prevention message is to practice standard precautions similar to that which we encourage for our typical flu season. These include: getting your flu shot, washing your hands, covering your coughs and sneezes, and of the most importance, stay home from work and avoid public places if you are ill.

Information is rapidly changing regarding this virus, this page will be regularly updated with current information and additional guidance. If you have questions, please don’t hesitate to call the NYS Coronavirus general information Hotline at 888-364-3065.

Thanks for your anticipated vigilance in responding to this situation in our GO health region.

Paul A. Pettit
Public Health Director

Genesee & Orleans County Health Departments

We continue to encourage social distancing where people avoid gathering in public places, limit contact with others; stay home if you are sick; if you are older and/or are immunocompromised with underlying health conditions stay home.

COVID-19 may cause symptoms including:

• Cough
• Fever
• Trouble breathing
• Pneumonia

For more information about prevention the state health department has an information call center for questions and answers about travel and symptoms regarding COVID-19. The number is 1-888-364-3065. Or you can visit the following websites:

• New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH)
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
• Genesee County Health Department
• Orleans County Health Department

The Health Departments will provide updates as appropriate.

While there is currently no vaccine to prevent COVID-19, these simple steps can help stop the spread of this and other respiratory viruses, including the flu (influenza) which is currently widespread:

• If you need to go to your primary care provider, a health center or the emergency room, call ahead to let them know your symptoms, travel and contact history.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Stay home if you are sick. If you have a fever, vomiting and/or diarrhea you should stay home at least 24 hours after the last incident without fever-reducing / anti-diarrhea medications.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash. If you don’t have a tissue cover your mouth with your elbow.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.