ALLEGAN COUNTY, Mich. — The Allegan County Health Department announced new contact tracing protocols in the fight against COVID-19 today.
The ACHD asks residents who test positive for the virus to fill out an “I tested positive” form. Those who may have been exposed are asked to fill out this “I have been exposed” form.
Completing the forms will provide the health department with data required to trace every infection, the ACHD says, adding that it’s easier to do than spending time on the phone with investigators.
The health department also says that completing the forms is required to receive a quarantine letter for your employer.
The data will also allow the ACHD to prioritize notifications to vulnerable individuals.
“We are at a pivotal moment in this pandemic response,” says Health Officer Angelique Joynes. “Everyone has a part to play. Wear your mask, stay 6 feet apart from others, and wash your hands. If you test positive or have been exposed, start isolating or quarantining as quickly as possible and complete the new self-reporting form.”