COVID-19 Update
As soon as concerns about the COVID-19 Coronavirus began to reach our region, HCRS mobilized an Emergency Preparedness Response Team (EPRT) of leaders across our agency to respond. It quickly became apparent that we would need to act quickly and expeditiously in order to be able to meet the mental health, substance use, and developmental disability needs of our communities while helping to prevent the spread of illness. Although services have often looked a little different, we’re pleased to have been able to continue to support our communities throughout this pandemic. Our staff are now reintegrated and as of August 2, we will be providing in-person services to all clients who would prefer them. For clients who aren’t yet comfortable coming into our offices or meeting in person, we’re happy to continue with virtual services.
People with certain health conditions that put them at risk for severe COVID-19 (including some mental health disorders), who test positive for COVID, may be eligible for treatment. We recommend those who test positive and are at risk for severe COVID-19, connect with their primary care provider for more information. The CDC website also offers guidance - https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/need-extra-precautions/people-with-medical-conditions.html
For additional information, click on the following links:
- Where to get tested in Vermont
- Pfizer Vaccine Fact Sheet
- Things You Should Know About COVID-19 Vaccines - English
- Things You Should Know About COVID-19 Vaccines - Arabic
- Things You Should Know About COVID-19 Vaccines - Dari
- Things You Should Know About COVID-19 Vaccines - Nepali
- Things You Should Know About COVID-19 Vaccines - Somali
- Things You Should Know About COVID-19 Vaccines - Spanish
- Things You Should Know About COVID-19 Vaccines - Swahili
- Things You Should Know About COVID-19 Vaccines - Vietnamese
- About the COVID-19 Vaccine
- Preparing for Your Vaccine
- Our Shot Poster #1
- Our Shot Poster #2
- Our Shot Poster #3
- Client Illness Guildelines (11/21/22)
- COVID-19 DS Staff Protocol (1/27/22)
- COVID-19 Staff Protocol (10/14/22)
- COVID-19 Residential Staff Protocol (2/10/22)
- Residential Staff COVID Graphic (2/10/22)
- COVID Graphic for Residents (2/3/22)
- PPE Conversation Tips
- Tips for Managing COVID in Your Home (1/21/22)
Info on COVID-19 Vaccines:
- Letter from the HCRS CEO
- COVID-19 Vaccine Flyer
- COVID-19 Vaccine - FAQ (updated 3/5/21)
- NY Times FAQ on COVID Vaccines
- COVID-19 Transporation Info
- COVID-19 Vaccine Information in Plain Language
Contact Info:
24/7 Crisis Hotline: Call toll-free for Crisis Support and/or to arrange telemedicine screening or in person community response - 1-800-622-4235.
DS SAFE Team: Our after hours support line is open for Developmental Services and Children, Youth, and Families clients. Call 1-802-886-4511.
How to Protect Yourself and Your Loved Ones:
Right now, the most important thing we can all do is to help prevent the spread of respiratory illness:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water (for at least 20 seconds). Or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Cover your cough, or sneeze, with your sleeve or a tissue - not your hands.
- Don’t go to work if you’re sick. We all need to do our part to keep our communities healthy.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Routinely clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
- Wear a mask when you're out in the community.
- Try to keep 12 feet of distance apart from people you don't live with.
Additional Information:
Letter sent to DS Clients, Families, and Shared Living Providers (3-23-20)
Letter to Editor from HCRS CEO George Karabakakis
Department of Disabilities, Aging, and Independent Living (DAIL)
For Staff Only: Online Vaccine Form