To keep the public informed, the Cape May County Board of Chosen Freeholders are providing regular updates in government services and pertinent links regarding COVID-19. Coronavirus is a serious illness that spreads from person to person. Cape May County officials are working closely with the State and Federal Government to provide the latest information to help mitigate the spread of this virus.

Freeholder Director Gerald M. Thornton and Freeholder Jeffrey L. Pierson, who oversees the Cape May County Department of Health want to assure everyone that the County is closely monitoring the spread of COVID-19 in Cape May County and throughout the region. Their foremost goal is to protect the well-being of our employees and families as well as our residents and visitors and continue to provide essential services to our County.

County government will continue to operate, and all government functions will be offered with some adjustments including limited hours of operation and reduced services. Communications remain open and the public is encouraged to call or email for needed services or information.

We are all working together to keep you informed and safe.

Gerald M. Thornton, Freeholder Director
Jeffrey L. Pierson, Freeholder, liaison, Health and Human Services.

Governor Philip D. Murphy 

Executive Orders Regarding COVID-19

Administrative Orders Regarding COVID-19

The Board of Chosen Freeholders have passed resolutions regarding COVID-19, click here to view the resolutions.    

COVID-19 UPDATE - 4/27/20 

The Cape May County Health Department is sad to report that a 65-year-old female resident from Dennis Township and a 92-year-old female from Lower Township have died of COVID-19. Cape May County’s positive case count is now 302 total including 20 deaths from Covid-19.

“We extend our deepest condolences to the loved ones of these residents,” said Cape May County Freeholder Director Gerald Thornton. “While we have expected more cases, these deaths are another reminder that protection of our community is critical.”

“While most cases of COVID-19 exhibit mild or moderate symptoms, these tragic deaths underscores the urgent need for us to take extra steps to protect residents who are particularly vulnerable to developing more serious illness, including elderly persons and those with underlying health conditions,” said Cape May County Freeholder Jeff Pierson.

In addition to handwashing and other basic steps the public at large can take to prevent illness, Cape May County Health Department recommends additional measures to prevent exposure among  vulnerable people, including the elderly and those with underlying health conditions (such as diabetes, cancer, immunodeficiency, asthma, COPD and others). Public Health recommends that vulnerable people:

• Stay home as much as possible. Arrange for someone to deliver groceries and other items you need. Ensure you have at least a two-week supply of medication on hand.
• When staying home, healthy visitors are fine – but visitors who have fever, cough, or sore throat should be turned away. Encourage phone calls and video chats instead.
• Wash your hands regularly, especially before eating or before touching your face.
• If you need to leave the house, minimize contact with other people and with common surfaces. Stay at least six feet away from others. Avoid touching shared surfaces like door handles, or counters. Use clothing or a paper towel instead of bare hands to open doors, for example. Wash hands or use hand sanitizer after touching any shared surfaces or objects.

“If you are healthy and not at higher risk, please look out for friends and loved ones who would be considered more vulnerable and offer support,” Cape May County Health Officer Kevin Thomas said. “We are working with New Jersey State Health Department partners to limit the impacts of this disease in long term care facilities and to our community, but we need the public’s help as well.”

Call your healthcare professional if you have concerns about COVID-19 and your underlying health conditions. Stay up to date on the current situation as it evolves. Some reliable sources are New Jersey Poison Information and Education System hotline at 211 or 1-800-962-1253, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention at www.cdc.gov, the World Health Organization at www.who.int, the New Jersey Department of Health at COVID19.nj.gov. For additional information visit https://capemaycountynj.gov/ or Cape May County Department of Health at www.cmchealth.net, also like us on Facebook.

Cape May County Officials Urge Residents to Help Save Lives by Doing Your Part 

4/27/20 - New Jersey has reported 109,038 total COVID-19 cases and 5,938 deaths. Cape May County’s total has increased by 3 cases, making a total of 289 cases in the county. Currently, 85 cases have recovered from COVID-19. County health officials have reported an additional individual that has passed, bringing the county total of deaths from COVID-19 to 18. 

“It is with great sadness that we announce another life lost to this pandemic,” said Freeholder Jeff Pierson “Our sympathies and thoughts go out to the family. The death of one of our community members is a reminder to us all to continue to heed the precautions associated with preventing the spread of this disease.”

As rates of new COVID-19 cases start to decline, County officials urge residents to continue taking precautions to help save lives.

“Governor Murphy reported that the rate of COVID-19 cases doubling across New Jersey continues to decrease. This information shows that what we are doing is working. It is more important than ever to continue social distancing and taking precautions. By protecting ourselves, we can help protect others and save lives,” said Kevin Thomas, Health Officer. 

Residents should continue to take simple steps to reduce the spread of COVID-19:

• Wash hands with liquid soap and water, and rubbing for at least 20 seconds, or using alcohol-based sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a cloth face cover when around others.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Stay home if you are sick. 
• Regularly clean high-touch surfaces.
• When you must go out for essential items practice social distancing, minimize your time out and wash your hands as soon as possible afterwards.

Call your healthcare professional if you have concerns about COVID-19 and your underlying health conditions. Stay up to date on the current situation as it evolves. Some reliable sources are New Jersey Poison Information and Education System hotline at 211 or 1-800-962-1253, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention at www.cdc.gov, the World Health Organization at www.who.int, the New Jersey Department of Health at COVID19.nj.gov. For additional information visit Cape May County Department of Health at www.cmchealth.net, also like us on Facebook.

While Helping Others During the COVID-19 Pandemic, Do Not Forget to Take Care of Yourself 

4/25/20- New Jersey currently has 105,523 cases, and 5,863 deaths. As of today, Cape May County’s total has increased by 15 cases, bringing the total to 286 cases in the county with 85 individuals recovering and sadly 17 deaths from COVID-19.  As the number of cases increase so does stress and anxiety. Taking care of yourself, your friends, and your family can help you cope with stress. Helping others cope with their stress can also make your community stronger. If you need help or know someone who needs help contact the Disaster Distress Helpline at 1-800-985-5990, or the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 and TTY 1-800-787-3224. For any medical questions please call your healthcare provider or call 211 for any general COVID-19 questions. 

“In order to take care of others, you have to take care of yourself.  This is a stressful time for our community. It is more important than ever to take care of not just your physical health, but your mental health as well,” said Kevin Thomas, Cape May County Health Officer. 

Fear and anxiety of a disease can be overwhelming and make an individual feel like they have no control. If an individual has a pre-existing mental condition it is important to continue treatment and contact your healthcare provider if symptoms become worse. If your stress gets in the way of your daily activities for several days, please contact a healthcare provider to seek further guidance. 

Centers for Disease Control Suggest the Following Actions to Support Yourself:

• Take breaks from watching, reading, or listening to news stories, including social media. Hearing about the pandemic repeatedly can be upsetting.
• Take care of your body. Take deep breaths, stretch, or meditate. Try to eat healthy, well-balanced meals, exercise regularly, get plenty of sleep, and avoid alcohol and drugs.
• Make time to unwind. Try to do some other activities you enjoy.
• Connect with others. Talk with people you trust about your concerns and how you are feeling.

Sharing and discussing accurate facts about COVID-19, such as one’s actual risk, with people you care about can help make an outbreak less stressful. 

Stay up to date on the current situation as it evolves. Some reliable sources are New Jersey Poison Information and Education System hotline at 211 or 1-800-962-1253, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention at www.cdc.gov, the World Health Organization at www.who.int, the New Jersey Department of Health at COVID19.nj.gov. For additional information visit Cape May County Department of Health at www.cmchealth.net, also like us on Facebook.

26 New Cases in Cape May County of COVID-19

4/24/20 - There are now over 870,000 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the U.S. and now there are more than 100,000 cases in New Jersey including 5,617 deaths. In Cape May County, 271 people have tested positive and 17 have died from COVID-19. The individuals who tested positive are currently being isolated and monitored by the County Health Department. Public Health staff are investigating and identifying close contacts of the confirmed cases and any exposure risks. 

Number of Cape May County Positive Cases and Deaths by Day

COVID-19 can spread easily within households. “It is important for people to continue to do their part to help reduce their risk to COVID-19 and remind everyone in your home to do the same,” said Kevin Thomas, Cape May County Health Officer. “These actions are especially important for families with members at higher risk for severe illness.” 

The best protection against COVID-19 is to:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water
• Avoid touching your eye, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands
• Self-isolate if you are sick
• Maintain physical distancing (especially by staying at home)
• Wear a cloth face covering when out in public for essential activities 

Public Health advises everyone that if you are ill with a fever or respiratory symptoms, even with mild symptoms, to self-isolate at home for 7 days and until you are fever and symptom free for 72 hours. If you have been in close contact with a person who has tested positive for COVID-19, or is presumed to be infected with COVID-19, you should quarantine at home for 14 days from your last contact with that individual.

Those at higher risk of serious illness to COVID-19 should contact their doctor as soon as they become sick. Based on what we know now, those at high risk for severe illness from COVID-19 are:

• People 65 years and older
• People who live in nursing home or a long-term care facility
• People of all ages with underlying medical conditions, especially of not well controlled, including: 
• Chronic disease or moderate to severe asthma
• Serious heart conditions
• Compromised immune systems

Many conditions can cause a person to be immunocompromised, including cancer treatment, smoking, bone marrow or organ transplantation, immune deficiencies, poorly controlled HIV or AIDS, prolonged use of immune weakening medications.

• Severe obesity (body mass index or BMI of 40 or higher)
• Diabetes
• Chronic kidney disease undergoing dialysis
• Liver disease

Call your healthcare professional if you have concerns about COVID-19 and your underlying health conditions. Stay up to date on the current situation as it evolves. Some reliable sources are New Jersey Poison Information and Education System hotline at 211 or 1-800-962-1253, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention at www.cdc.gov, the World Health Organization at www.who.int, the New Jersey Department of Health at COVID19.nj.gov. For additional information visit https://capemaycountynj.gov/ or Cape May County Department of Health at www.cmchealth.net, also like us on Facebook.

21 New Positive Cases of COVD-19 in Cape May County

4/23/20- Today, the Cape May County Department of Health reports an increase of positive cases by 21, making a total of 245 including 17 deaths from COVID-19.

Older adults and people with chronic health conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease and lung ailments, are more likely than younger, healthier people to experience serious symptoms from the illness caused by the coronavirus (COVID-19).  The immune system grows weaker as one ages, which makes it more challenging for older adults to fight off infectious diseases. Chronic diseases are more common with age, can compromise the immune system, and make people more vulnerable to serious complications. In addition, many individuals with disabilities and chronic health conditions and many seniors, rely on in-home care, making physical distancing challenging for them, their loved ones and their caregivers. Individuals in nursing homes and long–term care facilities are at a particularly heightened level of risk for severe illness as a result of COVID-19.

Cape May County Department of Health recommends additional measures to prevent exposure among vulnerable people, including the elderly and those with underlying health conditions (such as diabetes, cancer, immunodeficiency, asthma, COPD and others). The department recommends that residents, especially those who are vulnerable:

• Stay home except for essential tasks. Ensure you have a two-week supply of medication on hand.
• When engaging in essential tasks away from home, remain 6 feet away from others and wear a facial covering.
• Wash your hands with soap and water regularly.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Keep surfaces clean by wiping them down with a household disinfectant,

Call your healthcare professional if you have concerns about COVID-19 and your underlying health conditions. Stay up to date on the current situation as it evolves. Some reliable sources are New Jersey Poison Information and Education System hotline at 211 or 1-800-962-1253, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention at www.cdc.gov, the World Health Organization at www.who.int, the New Jersey Department of Health at COVID19.nj.gov. For additional information visit https://capemaycountynj.gov/ or Cape May County Department of Health at www.cmchealth.net, also like us on Facebook.

COVID 19 Update - April 22, 2020  

Cape May Court House – Cape May County Health Department announces three more positive COVID-19 cases bringing the total 224 and passing of two more residents a 97-year-old male and a 77-year-old male.

“We are deeply saddened by these tragic losses and send our condolences to the families,” said Freeholder Director Gerald Thornton.

The entire state of New Jersey, including Cape May County, is experiencing widespread community transmission of COVID-19. Residents should assume the risk of exposure is everywhere and behave accordingly, regardless of the details of specific numbers and locations of cases. 

“Community transmission indicates that you can get COVID-19 from anywhere within the community; you don’t have to travel or know a person with the disease in order to get it. This means everyone should stay home and only go out for essential needs as rarely as possible,” insists Freeholder Jeff Pierson. “If you need to go out for critical items like grocery shopping or medical care, wear a cloth face covering and stay at least six feet away from others. Wash your hands and clean surfaces often. These personal precautions apply to all of us – stay home!”

More importantly, everyone should understand that staying safe depends on your individual behavior. The most effective ways to protect yourself and those around you, and limiting the spread of illness, are personal precautions. This is how we all work together, to save lives.

• Stay home as much as possible, except for essential travel;
• If you must go out in public, wear a cloth face covering;
• Stay home when you are sick;
• Avoid contact with sick people;
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing;
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds; use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available;
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth;
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces;
• If you are experiencing symptoms, call your doctor;
• Practice social distancing. Maintain at least six feet of space between yourself and other individuals when out in public; and
• Avoid close contact with crowds of any size, and avoid any crowd of more than 10 people.
• Call your healthcare professional if you have concerns about COVID-19 and your underlying health conditions. Stay up to date on the current situation as it evolves. Some reliable sources are New Jersey Poison Information and Education System hotline at 211 or 1-800-962-1253, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention at www.cdc.gov, the World Health Organization at www.who.int, the New Jersey Department of Health at COVID19.nj.gov. For additional information visit https://capemaycountynj.gov/ or Cape May County Department of Health at www.cmchealth.net, also like us on Facebook.

COVID-19 Update - April 21, 2020

There are now over 800,000 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the U.S. and over 2.5 million cases worldwide. In Cape May County, 221 people have tested positive and 15 have died from COVID-19. The individuals who tested positive are currently being isolated and monitored by the County Health Department. Public Health staff are investigating and identifying close contacts of the confirmed cases and any exposure risks. 

“Now, more than ever, residents must come together in unity to limit the spread of COVID-19. If you have symptoms like cough, fever, or shortness of breath, call your health care provider,” said Cape May County Health Officer Kevin Thomas. “There is no treatment at this time for COVID-19, which makes prevention even more important. The best way to prevent COVID-19 is by avoiding being exposed, which is why we are urging everyone to practice social distancing.”

The virus is spread mainly from person-to person. COVID-19 can spread through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possible be inhaled into the lungs. It can spread between people who are in close contact with one another, within about 6 feet. The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus. Since COVID-19 spreads easily from person-to-person it is important to do the following:

 Avoid close contact with people who are sick. 

 Put distance between yourself and other people if COVID-19.

 Stay Home, unless you need to leave to get essential supplies. 

Call your healthcare professional if you have concerns about COVID-19 and your underlying health conditions. Stay up to date on the current situation as it evolves. Some reliable sources are New Jersey Poison Information and Education System hotline at 211 or 1-800-962-1253, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention at www.cdc.gov, the World Health Organization at www.who.int, the New Jersey Department of Health at COVID19.nj.gov. For additional information visit https://capemaycountynj.gov/ or Cape May County Department of Health at www.cmchealth.net, also like us on Facebook.

Protect Yourself When You Are Shopping for Essential Food and Household Items

“We urge individuals to remain home. If they must leave on an essential errand it is important to protect yourself. By social distancing you can protect yourself and others,” said Kevin Thomas, Cape May County Health Officer. 

You can protect yourself while doing essential shopping by doing the following: 

• Stay home if sick.
• Avoid shopping if you are sick or have symptoms of COVID-19, which include a fever, cough, or shortness of breath.
• Order online or use curbside pickup.
• Order food and other items online for home delivery or curbside pickup (if possible).
• Only visit the grocery store, or other stores selling household essentials, in person when you absolutely need to. This will limit your potential exposure to others and the virus that causes COVID-19.
• Protect yourself while shopping.
• Stay at least 6 feet away from others while shopping and in lines.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a cloth face covering when you must go out in public.
• When you do have to visit in person, go during hours when fewer people will be there (for example, early morning or late night).
• If you are at higher risk for severe illness, find out if the store has special hours for people at higher risk. If they do, try to shop during those hours. People at higher risk for severe illness include adults 65 or older and people of any age who have serious underlying medical conditions.
• Disinfect the shopping cart, use disinfecting wipes if available.
• Do not touch your eyes, nose, or mouth.
• If possible, use touchless payment (pay without touching money, a card, or a keypad). If you must handle money, a card, or use a keypad, use hand sanitizer right after paying.
• Use hand sanitizer when you leave the store. Wash your hands when you get home.
• After leaving the store, use hand sanitizer. When you get home, wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
• At home, follow food safety guidelines: clean, separate, cook, chill. There is no evidence that food or food packaging has been linked to getting sick from COVID-19.

Call your healthcare professional if you have concerns about COVID-19 and your underlying health conditions. Stay up to date on the current situation as it evolves. Some reliable sources are New Jersey Poison Information and Education System hotline at 211 or 1-800-962-1253, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention at www.cdc.gov, the World Health Organization at www.who.int, the New Jersey Department of Health at COVID19.nj.gov. For additional information visit Cape May County Department of Health at www.cmchealth.net, also like us on Facebook.

As Coronavirus (COVID-19) Cases Continue to Increase Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Recommends Wearing a Cloth Face Covering in Public Settings

4/18/20- “The number one prevention method against COVID-19 remains social distancing. Individuals should only leave their homes for essential travel. When essential travel is necessary to a public place that social distancing is difficult the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, CDC, recommends the use of a cloth face covering to slow the spread of COVID-19.” said Kevin Thomas, Cape May County Health Officer. 

CDC is recommending the use of cloth face masks to help individuals who may have the virus and do not know it from transmitting it to others. The cloth mask should be used in public settings where social distancing can be difficult, for example grocery stores and pharmacies. Cloth face coverings can be made from common household items at low cost. The cloth face covering that are being recommended by the CDC are not surgical masks or N-95 respirators, these supplies should be reserved for healthcare works and other medical first responders. 

Cloth Face Coverings Should: 

• Fit snugly but comfortably against the side of the face.
• Be secured with ties or ear loops.
• Include multiple layers of fabric.
• Allow for breathing without restriction.
• Be able to be laundered and machine dried without damage or change to shape.

Cloth face coverings should not be placed on young children under age 2, anyone who has trouble breathing, or is unconscious, incapacitated or otherwise unable to remove the mask without assistance. Cloth face coverings should be routinely washed depending on the frequency of use. The face covering can be simple washed in the washing machine. When removing the cloth face covering it is important not to touch one’s eyes, nose, and mouth until they have washed their hands. 

Call your healthcare professional if you have concerns about COVID-19 and your underlying health conditions. Stay up to date on the current situation as it evolves. Some reliable sources are New Jersey Poison Information and Education System hotline at 211 or 1-800-962-1253, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention at www.cdc.gov, the World Health Organization at www.who.int, the New Jersey Department of Health at COVID19.nj.gov. For additional information visit Cape May County Department of Health at www.cmchealth.net, also like us on Facebook.

Today, we have learned of yet another death due to COVID-19 as the case count reaches 200

4/17/20 - Today, the Cape May County Department of Health reports a 75-year-old female resident from Lower Township that passed away from the corona virus. Cape May County’s positive case count has now increased by 10 making a total of 200 including 13 deaths from Covid-19.

“Today, we have learned of yet another death due to COVID-19 which has impacted our communities in Cape May County,” Freeholder Jeff Pierson said. “Our thoughts and prayers go out to this woman’s family as well as the families of those who have also been victims of this terrible pandemic.”

“The best prevention against illness is always hand hygiene. Good hand hygiene helps protect yourself and others from spreading germs. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention does not recommend the use of gloves in public settings currently. Gloves should only be used by trained individuals,” said Kevin Thomas, Health Officer. 

As of now, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention does not recommend wearing gloves in public as a preventative measure. Washing your hands is just as effective as wearing gloves. Individuals should also not be wearing gloves if they were not properly trained. The World Health Organization only recommends gloves to be used by medical professionals when there is a possibility that they might come in contact bodily fluids. Washing your hands often can help ensure that you and your loved ones stay healthy. Clean hands can stop germs spreading from one person to another and throughout an entire community. By washing your hands, you can protect your home, workplace, childcare facilities, and hospitals. 

Clean your hands often by taking the following methods: 

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds especially after you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
• If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Cover all surfaces of your hands and rub them together until they feel dry.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.

Follow Five Steps to Wash Your Hands the Right Way

• Wet your hands with clean, running water (warm or cold), turn off the tap, and apply soap.
• Lather your hands by rubbing them together with the soap. Lather the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails.
• Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds. Need a timer? Hum the “Happy Birthday” song from beginning to end twice.
• Rinse your hands well under clean, running water.
• Dry your hands using a clean towel or air dry them. 

Call your healthcare professional if you have concerns about COVID-19 and your underlying health conditions. Stay up to date on the current situation as it evolves. Some reliable sources are New Jersey Poison Information and Education System hotline at 211 or 1-800-962-1253, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention at www.cdc.gov, the World Health Organization at www.who.int, the New Jersey Department of Health at COVID19.nj.gov. For additional information visit https://capemaycountynj.gov/ or Cape May County Department of Health at www.cmchealth.net, also like us on Facebook.

CAPE MAY COUNTY CREATES BUSINESS RECOVERY TASK FORCE

4/15/20 - Cape May County is focused on ensuring the safety of its residents today, while keeping an eye on helping the business community when the COVID-19 Pandemic subsides. Cape May County Freeholder Director Gerald M. Thornton first proposed a Business Recovery Task Force to be created during a Cape May County Freeholder Meeting last week and then the Task Force was formally created at the Freeholder Meeting on Tuesday, April 14. 

“There is a lot of information that businesses will have to work through in order to get Federal or State money including through the Small Business Administration,” said Thornton. “I thought having a Task Force that could guide our local businesses would be very important, along with potential future funding opportunities that might be made available.”

Thornton proposed having the committee headed up by Freeholder Vice-Director Leonard Desiderio and Freeholder Will Morey. Both Freeholders are business owners in the County and Morey is also the liaison to the County’s Economic Development efforts.

“It was an honor to have the Freeholder Director (Thornton) put my name forward to be apart of this Task Force,” said Desiderio. “I have been talking daily to business owners where I live in Sea Isle City and from across the County. We hear their concerns and we will find a way to help.”

“The County has devoted significant resource and attention over the past several years to creating well-paying jobs for its residents,” said Morey. “We will now devote special attention to assist with sustaining and reopening businesses as well as retaining the jobs that existed before this Pandemic. 

The members of the committee have not yet been announced. It was discussed that the Task Force would be between seven and nine members. As more information on the Task Force becomes available it will be released to the public.

Cape May County Announces Opening of Drive-thru COVID-19 Testing Site for Cape May County Residents, By Appointment Only

4/8/20 - Cape May County Department of Health and CompleteCare Health Network are partnering to open a drive-thru COVID-19 testing site. The drive-thru will be on consecutive Wednesdays starting April 22, by appointment only. At this time, testing will only be for CompleteCare patients, as well as Cape May County residents, who are sick with symptoms of fever, cough and shortness of breath and that meet a certain criteria. Symptomatic first responders who are residents of the county will also be given priority testing. In order to receive testing, individuals can go to CompleteCareNJ.org/COVID19 or call 609-465-0258 and request to be screened.  Web registration is the best.

 Process for scheduling an appointment for COVID-19 drive-thru testing is on CompleteCareNJ.org/COVID19.

If you are not a CompleteCare patient – obtain a script from your doctor. Once you have the script do the following:    Go to completecarenj.org website

• Read statement click I understand
• Click request an appointment on right of screen
• Complete requested information
• Await call from CompleteCare staff to review symptoms
• CompleteCare will forward script to Health Department
• Health Department staff will call and schedule the appointment

“Most individuals have mild symptoms and are able to recover at home. If you can maintain your symptoms at home, we urge you to do so. Testing requires personal protective equipment, which we want to preserve for our first responders,” said Kevin Thomas, Health Officer. 

The testing site is not being disclosed to protect the confidentiality and safety of our residents. The location of the testing site will be given to individuals who are approved for testing and have been explained the proper procedures. The testing site will be by appointment only to assure a timely and efficient flow. 

If you feel that you should be tested visit CompleteCareNJ.org/COVID19 or call (609) 465-0258 and request an appointment to be screened by a provider. Once an individual is approved for testing a prescription will be electronically sent to Cape May County Department of Health, who will call the patient with an appointment time and location. 

CompleteCare accepts Medicaid, Medicare, as well as private insurance plans and those without insurance. The test will be free of charge and no co-pay will be required for the screening. Translation services are available for those in need.

Cape May County Department of Health and CompleteCare Health Network will work to ensure people are informed of their results in a timely manner. There is no vaccine or treatment currently for COVID-19. The best thing to do is protect yourself. Steps to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 if you are sick include:

• Stay home except to get medical care. Most individuals with COVID-19 have mild illness and can recover at home without medical care. It is important that you do not leave your home, except to get medical care. 
• Stay in touch with your doctor. Call before you get medical care. Make sure you to get care if you are having trouble breathing. 
• Monitor your symptoms. Common symptoms include fever and cough. Trouble breathing is a more serious symptom that means you should get medical attention but call first. 
• Do not visit public places and avoid public transportation. 
• Separate yourself from other people in your home, this is known as “home isolation”. You want to stay away from others as much as possible. Create a “sick room” if possible. 
• Call your doctor ahead before visiting. Many medical visits for routine care are being postponed or done by phone or telemedicine. 
• Cover your coughs and sneezes. 
• Clean your hands often. 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 sharing personal household items. 
• Clean all “high-touch” surfaces every day. 

CompleteCare is not testing patients for COVID-19 at its health centers. Do not come to any CompleteCare location or Cape May County Department of Health for testing. If symptoms worsen, individuals should immediately contact their healthcare provider. Be sure to call before going to any healthcare facility to assure they take the proper precautions. 

Stay up to date on the current situation as it evolves. Some reliable sources are New Jersey Poison Information and Education System Hotline at 211 or 1-800-962-1253, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention at www.cdc.gov, World Health Organization at www.who.int, New Jersey Department of Health at COVID19.nj.gov. For additional information visit Cape May County Department of Health at www.cmchealth.net and also like us on Facebook.

For Additional Information:

Contact: Natalie Sendler 

Email: natalie.sendler@co.cape-may.nj.us

Phone: 609-465-1201

Crest Haven Nursing & Rehabilitation Center - An Update on COVID-19

4/20/20 - We appreciate all of the support and positive feedback from our families and friends. We want you to know that we are and will continue to be transparent regarding any suspected or confirmed cases of COVID-19 in our facility. Should we have a positive Covid-19 case, we will notify all residents and their representatives quickly.

Currently, we have no suspected or confirmed cases in our resident or staff population. This is a direct result of the hard work or our staff and their strict adherence to the best infection control practices. Our amazing nursing, housekeeping, dietary and ancillary staff are not only working hard to keep everyone well, they are also showing an abundance of love and kindness to our residents. Our residents are doing well and are in good spirits despite these trying circumstances. While you cannot be here, we are here for them.

As mandated by the State of New Jersey for all healthcare facilities, all employees must wear masks at all times. As an extra precaution, our nurses and CNAs are wearing face shields in addition to their surgical masks. This offers another layer of protection to our residents while receiving care.

We conduct a health screening including temperature taking, before anyone is allowed access to our facility. We have very strict guidelines for quarantining staff with any sort of illness, and they are being tested for Covid-19 before being allowed to return to work.

Should we have a COVID-19 case, we have a separate, designated area and dedicated staff for care of such resident(s). N-95 masks, gowns, face shields and gowns are ready for care of a COVID-19 case. We are educating and observing our staff frequently on the best infection control practices within the facility, and those to follow in their home settings.

We are in good stock of personal protective equipment. Our residents have face masks to wear if they are outside of their rooms. We encourage everyone to wash hands frequently and use hand sanitizer often.

Facetime or Skype services are available for you to have face to face calls with your loved one. Please contact Sandy or Sherry in Activities to schedule a session between 10am-3pm daily. You can call for an update or talk with your Resident on a regular phone call at any time.

To receive the most up to date information, please share your email with us atCrestHaven.Admin@co.cape-may.nj.us .

Thank you for your support!

Jennifer Hess, LNHA

Administrator

Crest Haven Nursing & Rehabilitation Center

CAPE MAY COUNTY FREEHOLDERS VOTE TO CLOSE HOTELS AND MOTELS DUE TO COVID-19 OUTBREAK

4/7/20 - The Cape May County Board of Chosen Freeholders voted on Tuesday that all hotels, motels, guest houses and other transient, seasonal and short-term rental businesses are prohibited from lodging any new transient guest or seasonal tenant effective immediately. The Board decided that it would continue to monitor the situation to reopen these businesses as soon as it is safe to do so.

The term “transient guest or seasonal tenant” as described by Gov. Phil Murphy’s Executive Order does not include: “(i) individuals housed as a part of State-directed non-congregate shelter initiative, (ii) individuals taking temporary residence supported by Federal, State, or local emergency and/or other housing assistance, or (iii) healthcare workers taking temporary residence.” This resolution also does not require the eviction of any transient guest or seasonal tenant presently lodged in such a location prior to the resolution being passed.

The goal is to create one uniform policy for the entire County so there isn’t confusion among visitors regarding which towns are open and which ones are closed in the immediacy of the current Health Emergency in the State of New Jersey. The County wants to make it clear that the Resolution does not stop businesses from taking reservations or preparing the property for reopening, but speaks to the fluid nature of the situation, where no definite date is known.

“This is a necessary step and we are glad the Governor recognized our position, which I was the first to voice weeks ago,” said Freeholder Director Gerald M. Thornton. “We don’t need visitors at this time. We must do everything we can to flatten the curve. The more we discourage people from traveling at this time it will help eliminate the spread of COVID-19. When we can ensure it is safe, I will be the first one to welcome tourists will open arms.”

Thornton and Cape May County Administrator Elizabeth Bozzelli have been in daily contact with Gov. Phil Murphy’s office for the past month. Those discussions have allowed them to express the concerns of the elected officials and the community. Freeholder Jeffrey Pierson who is the liaison to the Cape May County Health Department has been in daily contact with Thornton and Bozzelli as well, along with the Health Department Officer Kevin Thomas and Cape May County Office of Emergency Management Director Marty Pagliughi. 

“This is not a decision we want to make but one we have to make,” said Pierson. “We are doing everything we can do to limit sickness and loss of life now and hopefully preserve some of the summer economic activity going forward. But the time to act is now.”

CAPE MAY COUNTY GOVERNMENT ANNOUNCES MORE CLOSINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS TO THE PUBLIC

The Cape May County Freeholder Board had a Special Meeting on Sunday to discuss what to do within the County regarding the impact of the COVID-19 outbreak. Some new changes include the Cape May County Park and Zoo and all the Cape May County Libraries Branches are closed to the public beginning on March 17. Also, Fare Free Transportation will only provide medical trips for dialysis, chemotherapy, radiation therapy and infusion therapy (life-saving treatments). They will also provide in-county shopping. The only out of county trips will be for Northfield Dialysis. All non-essential trips have been cancelled i.e. hair appointments, library, visitation, etc. This service reduction will go into effect Tuesday March 17 and remain until further notice. The Cape May County Freeholder Board also supports the decision by Governor Phil Murphy to restrict bars and restaurants to take out and delivery services only during daytime hours.

The Board of Chosen Freeholders along with Cape May County Health Officer, Kevin Thomas highly recommend that all businesses limit employee and public interaction by restricting the number of customers to no more than 10 at a time. Social distancing measures will help minimize the potential spread of Covid-19 in our community.

Cape May County Government business will also be doing its part to limit social interaction by continuing to restrict travel for County employees, limiting interaction with the public for employees when it’s possible by pushing for teleconferences or online communications.

“All of the decisions made by the Freeholder Board are made with the ultimate safety of our residents at heart,” said Freeholder Jeffrey Pierson, liaison to Health and Human Services. “The County wants to take the lead role in mitigating the spread of COVID-19 and to protect those who are most vulnerable in our County.”

The Governor has recommended a curfew statewide from 8 P.M. to 5 A.M. All County employees are considered essential personnel and should be allowed to travel during those times if it is for work purposes.

The Freeholder Board also recommends Centers for Disease Control Guidelines for cleaning at businesses that remain open. It is recommended and requested that all businesses implement and strictly adhere to the CDC Guidelines for stringent workplace sanitizing and disinfecting, “social distancing” and, to every extent possible, limit public interactions within confined spaces.

“Cape May County has a significant elderly population and those individuals are at high risk,” said Freeholder Director Gerald M. Thornton. “We have to do everything possible to limit the spread of the virus to ensure their safety. We are also taking these actions to protect our employees and the public through this event.”

List of cancellations and interruption of government services:

• Crest Haven Nursing home has restricted all visitors from entering their facility.
• A travel ban for employees going outside of the county has been enacted, effective 3/10.
• All public events scheduled in which the public would be attending are suspended, effective March 16.
• County employees are restricted from attending meetings with the public.
• The Cape May County Parks & Zoo is closed until further notice.
• All Cape May County Senior Centers are closed until further notice, effective March 16.
• All Election Board Polling Classes have been canceled until further notice.
• Cape May County Heath Care Resource Day scheduled on April 4 has been canceled.
• The Cape May County Library branches are closed, and all events are canceled until further notice.
• Reporting requirements have been suspended for all participants in the Sheriff’s Labor Assistance Program (SLAP) through March 31, 2020.
• All US Coast Guard recruits confined to base and no graduation ceremony
• The Surrogates Office will be closed to the public. It will remain open and fully staffed with completion of necessary services over the telephone, Internet, and regular mail.

The President’s Coronavirus Guidelines for America: 15 Days to Slow the Spread

1. Listen to and follow the directions of your state and local authorities.

2. If you feel sick, stay home. Do not go to work. Contact your medical provider.

3. If your children are sick, keep them at home. Do not send them to school. Contact your medical provider.

4. If someone in your household has tested positive for the coronavirus, keep the entire household at home. Do not go to work. Do not go to school. Contact your medical provider.

5. If you are an older person, stay home and away from other people.

6. If you are a person with a serious underlying health condition that can put you at increased risk (for example, a condition that impairs your lung or heart function or weakens your immune system), stay home and away from other people.

7. Even if you are young, or otherwise healthy, you are at risk and your activities can increase the risk for others. It is critical that you do your part to stop the spread of the coronavirus:
   1. Work or engage in schooling from home whenever possible.
   2. If you work in a critical infrastructure industry, as defined by the Department of Homeland Security, such as healthcare services and pharmaceutical and food supply, you have a special responsibility to maintain your normal work schedule. You and your employers should follow CDC guidance to protect your health at work.
   3. Avoid social gatherings in groups of more than 10 people.
   4. Avoid eating or drinking in bars, restaurants, and food courts – use drive-thru, pickup, or delivery options.
   5. Avoid discretionary travel, shopping trips, and social visits.
   6. Do not visit nursing homes or retirement or long-term care facilities unless to provide critical assistance.

8. Practice good hygiene:
   1. Wash your hands, especially after touching any frequently used item or surface.
   2. Avoid touching your face.
   3. Sneeze or cough into a tissue, or the inside of your elbow.
   4. Disinfect frequently used items and surfaces as much as possible.

* School operations can accelerate the spread of the coronavirus. Governors of states with evidence of community transmission should close schools in affected and surrounding areas. Governors should close schools in communities that are near areas of community transmission, even if those areas are in neighboring states. In addition, state and local officials should close schools where coronavirus has been identified in the population associated with the school. States and localities that close schools need to address childcare needs of critical responders, as well as the nutritional needs of children.

** Older people are particularly at risk from the coronavirus. All states should follow Federal guidance and halt social visits to nursing homes and retirement and long-term care facilities.

*** In states with evidence of community transmission, bars, restaurants, food courts, gyms, and other indoor and outdoor venues where groups of people congregate should be closed.

The Cape May County Department of Health’s COVID-19 Informational Brochure can be viewed here                             .

For general questions about COVID-19, call the NJ COVID-19 & Poison Center Public Hotline at 1-800-962-1253 or 1-800-222-1222.

This page was updated on 4/24/20.