KFL&A Public Health making changes to case contact management

Kingston, Frontenac, Lennox and Addington (KFL&A) Public Health is implementing changes to case and contact management processes, as the demand for COVID-19 third doses increases in the region.

According to a release from Public Health, this redirection of resources is consistent with provincial changes, and, moving forward, the case and contact management team will focus on highest risk settings (e.g., congregate care settings) and individuals.

With this change, KFL&A Public Health is asking all individuals who test positive to notify their close contacts as positive cases may not receive outreach by phone in a timely manner.

The following information was provided by KFL&A Public Health:

1. Workplaces who have an individual who has tested positive will not receive outreach by KFL&A Public Health. Please visit the guidance for business and workplace web page for directions.

2. Individuals who have tested positive:
   • Not all individuals will receive outreach by phone from KFL&A Public Health. KFL&A Public Health is using a combination of approaches including text messaging and the provincial workforce. Individuals may receive a phone call from an unrecognized number. Anyone who has recently tested is encouraged to answer calls and respond to text messages.
   • Do not wait for a phone call from KFL&A Public Health. Notify your close contacts and encourage them to isolate for 10 days from their last exposure to you and be tested. The options for testing are found on the assessment, testing and results web page.
   • For more information for positive case and contact requirements, visit assessment, testing and results web page.

Starting Monday, Dec. 20, 2021, the province has expanded eligibility for COVID-19 vaccine boosters to all individuals 18 years and older, according to the release. The interval between second dose and booster shot is 84 days. Public Health said that early evidence supports individuals who are fully vaccinated, including a booster shot are substantially more protected from the risk of severe illness from the new variant, Omicron. Book vaccine appointments through KFL&A Public Health’s online tool for local clinic appointments.

The best way for individuals to protect themselves against the new Omicron variant of concern, according to Public Health, is to:

• Get fully vaccinated and seek a third dose when eligible.
• Screen for symptoms of COVID-19 daily, stay home, isolate, and get tested even if symptoms are mild.
• Avoid social gatherings and limit visiting others or having guests over.
• Stay 2 metres apart from people you do not live with and wear a mask in indoor spaces.
• Consider curbside pick-up, delivery, or alternate hours for shopping, especially if you are at a higher risk for illness.
• Clean your hands frequently.

COVID-19 testing appointments can be booked online or by phone at:

• COVID-19 Assessment Centre, Beechgrove Complex (51 Heakes Lane, Kingston)
• Lennox & Addington Assessment Centre (Lennox & Addington County General Hospital Westdale Campus in Napanee)
• Participating pharmacies in the KFL&A region

For the most up-to-date information visit Kflaph.ca/Coronavirus or COVID-19 (coronavirus) in Ontario.