COVID-19 Updates

• Employees will continue taking their temperature and checking for COVID symptoms before starting work
• Employees will continue to confirm they do not have symptoms at the start of their shift 
• Employees will also continue:
• Social distancing when possible
• Wearing a mask while working
• Washing hands frequently

• Venues: We will focus on outdoor activities, only allowing restaurant luncheons at venues where we can utilize outdoor seating.  
• The public indoor activities we will frequent will be those with expansive space, good ventilation and low traffic.
• We will continue to utilize sites where we have private, by appointment only access.
• Group Size: We will expand to 5-person groups and continue with masking and vehicle disinfectant fogging.
• Crossover: Your loved ones living in different homes can also visit each other following CDC guidelines.
• People supported by LADD who have been vaccinated can be around each other without masks (based on CDC guidance)
• Groups less than 10
• Staff must continue wearing masks while working
• Day Programs: We will resume going to other day programs, following CDC guidelines
• Public Transportation: Resume, following CDC guidelines
• Includes ACCESS, other NMT providers, and bus services

• Family Visits: We will resume these following CDC guidelines and these stipulations:
• One family at a time is allowed to visit; these will be scheduled
• Family visitors must wear mask indoors
• No indoor meals currently; outdoor meals are allowed
• Victory Parkway: Onsite visits to continue in Apartment 12.
• FAW/Geier: 10 people max in common areas. 
• Family Home Visits: Will resume, but will ask families to follow CDC guidelines.

• Staff crossover (an employee working in more than home) will be allowed. 
• Staff Meetings: We will continue to limit in-person meetings and continue to use Zoom, but in-person meetings are allowed following CDC guidelines
• Groups of 10 or less, masked, socially distanced
• VP Training/Board Room Gathering: Open to schedule with people wearing masks, social-distancing, sanitizing, and limited to groups of 10 or less.
• FAW/Geier Community Room Gathering: Community areas re-open with people wearing masks, social-distancing, sanitizing, and limited to groups of 10 or less people.
• SOAR/SE/HLADD:
• Meetings with people supported will be hosted via ZOOM, by phone, or in-person socially distanced with masks.
• Meetings with employers will be hosted via ZOOM, by phone, or in-person socially distanced with masks.

• Wear masks at work
• Conduct vehicle fogging for any outings
• Report any symptoms and call off from work if experiencing any
• Confirm they are having no symptoms, if true, at the start of every shift

• The state entered Phase 2C today, March 19, for vaccine distribution. This now includes Ohioans ages 40 and older. 
• On March 29, the state will allow Ohioans 16 and older to receive the COVID-19 vaccine under Phase 2D. 
• Find more information about Ohio’s vaccination distribution here.
• More vaccine resources:
• Schedule appointments/other resources – https://healthcollab.org/vaccine-info
• Trouble scheduling online – Call 211, United Way’s service line, to schedule a vaccine appointment 
• Transportation – Any seniors (ages 60+), who are unable to get a ride to their appointment can request transport assistance at (855) 546-6352 or sign up online.
• Town Hall on 3/27 – Center for Closing the Health Gap Virtual Town Hall for the Black Community: https://covid19communityresources.com/town-hall/
• Between Us, About Us – An open and honest conversation between W. Kamau Bell and Black doctors, nurses and researchers: Video and resources 
• Currently, 995,785 total cases of COVID-19 and 18,114 total COVID-19 deaths have been reported in Ohio.
• Hamilton County is at a Red/Level 3 on Ohio’s Public Health Advisory System this week.

• Employees will continue taking their temperature and checking for COVID symptoms before starting work 
• Employees will continue to confirm they do not have symptoms at the start of their shift  
• Employees will also continue: 
• Social distancing when possible 
• Wearing a mask while working 
• Washing hands frequently 

• Venues: We will focus on outdoor activities, only allowing restaurant luncheons at venues where we can utilize outdoor seating.   
• The public indoor activities we will frequent will be those with expansive space, good ventilation and low traffic. 
• We will continue to utilize sites where we have private, by appointment only access. 
• Group Size: We will expand to 5-person groups and continue with masking and vehicle disinfectant fogging. 
• Crossover: Your loved ones living in different homes can also visit each other following CDC guidelines. 
• Masked, socially distanced, groups of 10 or less including staff 
• Day Programs: We will resume going to other day programs, following CDC guidelines 
• Public Transportation: Resume, following CDC guidelines 
• Includes ACCESS, other NMT providers, and bus services 

• Family Visits: We will resume these following CDC guidelines (masked, socially distanced, sanitizing) and these stipulations: 
• Victory Parkway: Onsite visits to continue in Apartment 12. 
• FAW/Geier: 10 people max in common areas.  
• Elsewhere: One family at a time is allowed to visit; these will be scheduled. 
• Family Home Visits: Will resume, but ask families to follow CDC guidelines. 

• Staff crossover (an employee working in more than home) will be allowed.  
• Staff Meetings: We will continue to limit in-person meetings and continue to use Zoom, but in-person meetings are allowed following CDC guidelines 
• Groups of 10 or less, masked, socially distanced 
• VP Training/Board Room Gathering: Open to schedule with people wearing masks, social-distancing, sanitizing, and limited to groups of 10 or less. 
• FAW/Geier Community Room Gathering: Community areas re-open with people wearing masks, social-distancing, sanitizing, and limited to groups of 10 or less people. 
• SOAR/SE/HLADD: 
• Meetings with people supported will be hosted via ZOOM, by phone, or in-person socially distanced with masks. 
• Meetings with employers will be hosted via ZOOM, by phone, or in-person socially distanced with masks. 

• Wear masks at work 
• Conduct vehicle fogging for any outings 
• Report any symptoms and call off from work if experiencing any 
• Confirm they are having no symptoms, if true, at the start of every shift 

• Currently, there are 974,480 total cases of COVID-19 reported in Ohio and 17,189 total COVID-19 deaths in the state. 
• Hamilton County is at a Red/Level 3 on Ohio’s Public Health Advisory System this week. 
• The state entered Phase 1C on March 4 for vaccine distribution. This now includes Ohioans who work in certain occupations, including child care services, funeral services, and law enforcement and correction services; and people who: 
  • Have amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. 
  • Are bone marrow transplant recipients 
  • Have Type I diabetes  
  • Are pregnant 
• Find more information about Ohio’s vaccination distribution here. 
• Vaccine registration options: 
  • Cincinnati Health Department  
  • Hamilton County Health Department  
  • Walgreens 
  • CVS  
  • Kroger  

• Employees will continue taking their temperature and checking for COVID symptoms before starting work 
• Employees will continue to confirm they do not have symptoms at the start of their shift  
• Employees will also continue: 
• Social distancing when possible 
• Wearing a mask while working 
• Washing hands frequently 
• We are exploring the possibility of a waiver for people supported by LADD and families, as well as LADD staff, who choose not to receive the vaccine to ensure all understand the risk involved moving forward. We are still exploring what this may look like and will keep you updated. 

• Venues: We will focus on outdoor activities, only allowing restaurant luncheons at venues where we can utilize outdoor seating.   
• The public indoor activities we will frequent will be those with expansive space, good ventilation and low traffic. 
• We will continue to utilize sites where we have private, by appointment only access. 
• Group Size: We will expand to 5-person groups and continue with masking and vehicle disinfectant fogging. 
• Crossover: Your loved ones living in different homes can also visit each other following CDC guidelines. 
• Masked, socially distanced, groups of 10 or less including staff 
• Day Programs: We will resume going to other day programs, following CDC guidelines 
• Public Transportation: Resume, following CDC guidelines 
• Includes ACCESS, other NMT providers, and bus services 

• Family Visits: We will resume these following CDC guidelines (masked, socially distanced, sanitizing) and these stipulations: 
• Victory Parkway: Onsite visits to continue in Apartment 12. 
• FAW/Geier: 10 people max in common areas.  
• Elsewhere: One family at a time is allowed to visit; these will be scheduled. 
• Family Home Visits: Will resume, but we ask you to follow CDC guidelines. 

• Staff crossover (an employee working in more than home) will be allowed.  
• Staff Meetings: We will continue to limit in-person meetings and continue to use Zoom, but in-person meetings are allowed following CDC guidelines 
• Groups of 10 or less, masked, socially distanced 
• VP Training/Board Room Gathering: Open to schedule with people wearing masks, social-distancing, sanitizing, and limited to groups of 10 or less. 
• FAW/Geier Community Room Gathering: Community areas re-open with people wearing masks, social-distancing, sanitizing, and limited to groups of 10 or less people. 
• SOAR/Supported Employment/HLADD: 
• Meetings with people supported will be hosted via ZOOM, by phone, or in-person socially distanced with masks. 
• Meetings with employers will be hosted via ZOOM, by phone, or in-person socially distanced with masks. 

• Wear masks at work 
• Conduct vehicle fogging for any outings 
• Report any symptoms and call off from work if experiencing any 
• Confirm they are having no symptoms, if true, at the start of every shift 

• Currently, there are 962,404 total cases of COVID-19 reported in Ohio and 17,125 total COVID-19 deaths. 
• Hamilton County is at a Red/Level 3 on Ohio’s Public Health Advisory System this week. 
• The state remains in Phase 1B for vaccine distribution. This includes Ohioans age 65 and older, Ohioans with certain conditions leading to a higher risk for adverse COVID-19 outcomes, and adults/employees in K-12 schools.  
• Find more information about Ohio’s vaccination distribution here. 

• Wear masks at work 
• Conduct vehicle fogging for any outings 
• Report any symptoms and call off from work if experiencing any 
• Confirm they are having no symptoms, if true, at the start of every shift 

• Currently, there are 947,389 total cases of COVID-19 reported in Ohio and 16,611 total COVID-19 deaths. 
• Hamilton County is at a Red/Level 3 on Ohio’s Public Health Advisory System this week. 
• Ohioans with certain conditions leading to a higher risk for adverse COVID-19 outcomes are now able to begin receiving COVID-19 vaccines.  
• Find more updates on Ohio’s vaccination distribution here. 

• Wear masks at work 
• Conduct vehicle fogging for any outings 
• Report any symptoms and call off from work if experiencing any 
• Confirm they are having no symptoms, if true, at the start of every shift 

• Currently, there are  931,437  total  cases of COVID-19 reported in Ohio and 12,577  total  COVID-19 deaths.  
• Hamilton County  is at  a Red/Level 3 on Ohio’s Public Health Advisory System this week.  
• So far, Ohio estimates more than 12,000 individuals with developmental disabilities or severe medical conditions have been vaccinated.  
• Next week, Ohioans with certain conditions  leading to a  higher risk for adverse COVID-19 outcomes  will be able to begin receiving COVID-19 vaccines.  
• Thanks to a sustained decrease in COVID-19 hospitalizations, Ohio’s curfew has been lifted. If hospitalizations begin rising again,  the Ohio Department of Health may reinstate it.  
• Find more on Ohio’s vaccination distribution plan  here.  

• Wear masks at work 
• Conduct vehicle fogging for any outings 
• Report any symptoms and call off from work if experiencing any 
• Confirm they are having no symptoms, if true, at the start of every shift 

• Currently, there are 910,847 total cases of COVID-19 reported in Ohio and 11,509 total COVID-19 deaths. 
• Hamilton County is at a Red/Level 3 on Ohio’s Public Health Advisory System this week.  
• Find more on Ohio’s vaccination distribution plan here. 

• Currently, there are 883,716 total cases of COVID-19 reported in Ohio and 11,006 total COVID-19 deaths. 
• Hamilton County improved to a Red/Level 3 on Ohio’s Public Health Advisory System this week.  
• Find more on Ohio’s vaccination distribution plan here. 
• Ohio’s statewide curfew was moved to 11 p.m. because the state has had less than 3,500 hospitalizations for 7 days in a row. Read more here.  

• Hamilton County remains at a Purple/Level 4 on Ohio’s Public Health Advisory System this week, indicating severe exposure and spread of the virus. 
• There are currently more than 849,704 reported cases of COVID-19 in Ohio. 
• Read updates on Ohio’s vaccination plan here: https://governor.ohio.gov/wps/portal/gov/governor/media/news-and-media/covid19-update-1212021.  

• Hamilton County moved to Purple/Level 4 on Ohio’s Public Health Advisory System this week, indicating severe exposure and spread of the virus. 
• There are currently 814,442 reported cases of COVID-19 in Ohio. 

• Those with symptoms can be around others:  
• At least 10 days since symptoms first appeared  and 
• At least 24 hours with no fever without fever-reducing medication  and 
• Other symptoms of COVID-19 are improving 
• Those without symptoms can be around others: 
• 10 days have passed since the date of the positive test and continue to have no symptoms 

• Any known direct exposure to someone currently experiencing COVID-19 symptoms 
• Any known direct exposure to someone who has received a positive COVID-19 test 
• Not wearing a mask when in public and closer than six feet to others  
• Dining indoors at a restaurant or bar 
• Being in a group with people who aren’t social distancing or wearing masks 
• Being in a large group of more than 10 people or crowded place 

• Hamilton County remains in the Red/Level 3 with a high incidence of cases. 
• The Ohio Department of Health is extending the statewide 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. curfew until Jan. 2. This does not apply to those traveling for work, groceries, religious observances, medicine or carryout food.  
• Hamilton County Public Health has issued a stay-at-home advisory. The advisory calls for residents to stay home except for work, school or essential needs, such as food or medical care. The advisory is not an order and carries no penalties, but urges us to follow this guidance as Hamilton County’s positivity rate is above 10 percent. 
• The mask mandate and limit on gatherings with more than 10 people are both still in effect. Additional restrictions are now in place for wedding receptions, funeral repasts, and other events at banquet facilities. 
• Health officials are warning that hospitals are reaching capacity and are being overwhelmed. 
• Read additional state updates here. 

• Those with symptoms can be around others:  
• At least 10 days since symptoms first appeared and 
• At least 24 hours with no fever without fever-reducing medication and 
• Other symptoms of COVID-19 are improving 
• Those without symptoms can be around others: 
• 10 days have passed since the date of the positive test and continue to have no symptoms 

• Any known direct exposure to someone currently experiencing COVID-19 symptoms 
• Any known direct exposure to someone who has received a positive COVID-19 test 
• Not wearing a mask when in public and closer than six feet to others  
• Dining indoors at a restaurant or bar 
• Being in a group with people who aren’t social distancing or wearing masks 
• Being in a large group of more than 10 people or crowded place 

• Hamilton County remains in the Red/Level 3 with a high incidence of cases. 
• Hamilton County Public Health issued a stay-at-home advisory two weeks ago. The advisory calls for residents to stay home except for work, school or essential needs, such as food or medical care. The advisory is not an order and carries no penalties, but urges us to follow this guidance as Hamilton County’s positivity rate is above 10 percent. 
• Gov. DeWine has issued a statewide curfew from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. This does not apply to those traveling for work, groceries, religious observances, medicine or carryout food.  
• The mask mandate and limit on gatherings with more than 10 people are both still in effect. Additional restrictions are now in place for wedding receptions, funeral repasts, and other events at banquet facilities. 
• Health officials are warning that hospitals are reaching capacity and are being overwhelmed. 
• Read additional state updates here. 

• Any known direct exposure to someone currently experiencing COVID-19 symptoms 
• Any known direct exposure to someone who has received a positive COVID-19 test 
• Not wearing a mask when in public and closer than six feet to others  
• Dining indoors at a restaurant or bar 
• Being in a group with people who aren’t social distancing or wearing masks 
• Being in a large group of more than 10 people or crowded place 

• Hamilton County remains in the Red/Level 3 with a high incidence of cases. 
• A majority of Ohio counties are now in the Red/Level 3. 
• Hamilton County Public Health issued a stay-at-home advisory last week. The advisory calls for residents to stay home except for work, school or essential needs, such as food or medical care. The advisory is not an order and carries no penalties, but urges us to follow this guidance as Hamilton County’s positivity rate is above 10 percent. 
• Gov. DeWine issued a three-week statewide curfew from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. This does not apply to those traveling for work, groceries, religious observances, medicine or carryout food.  
• The mask mandate and limit on gatherings with more than 10 people are both still in effect. Additional restrictions are now in place for wedding receptions, funeral repasts, and other events at banquet facilities. 
• As we approach Thanksgiving, Gov. DeWine is reminding people that “when someone you don’t live with enters your ‘bubble,’ it puts everyone you live with at risk.” 
• Read additional state updates here. 

• The Health Collaborative – Various dates and locations  
• The Jewish Hospital — Mercy Health Outpatient Clinic . No appointment needed. 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. at 4777 E. Galbraith Rd., Cincinnati, Ohio, 45236. Call 513-686-3358 for more information.    
• CVS   
• Kroger Little Clinic Drive-Thru Testing  
• Walmart Testing   

• Any known direct exposure to someone currently experiencing COVID-19 symptoms 
• Any known direct exposure to someone who has received a positive COVID-19 test 
• Not wearing a mask when in public and closer than six feet to others  
• Dining indoors at a restaurant or bar 
• Being in a group with people who aren’t social distancing or wearing masks 
• Being in a large group of more than 10 people or crowded place 

• Hamilton County remains in the Red/Level 3 with a high incidence of cases. 
• A majority of Ohio counties are now in the Red/Level 3. 
• Hamilton County Public Health issued a stay-at-home advisory this week. The advisory calls for residents to stay home except for work, school or essential needs, such as food or medical care. The advisory is not an order and carries no penalties, but urges us to follow this guidance as Hamilton County’s positivity rate is above 10 percent. 
• Gov. DeWine issued a three-week statewide curfew from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. This does not apply to those traveling for work, groceries, religious observances, medicine or carryout food.  
• The mask mandate and limit on gatherings with more than 10 people are both still in effect. Additional restrictions are now in place for wedding receptions, funeral repasts, and other events at banquet facilities. 
• As we approach Thanksgiving, Gov. DeWine is reminding people that “when someone you don’t live with enters your ‘bubble,’ it puts everyone you live with at risk.” 
• Read additional state updates here. 

• Any known direct exposure to someone currently experiencing COVID-19 symptoms 
• Any known direct exposure to someone who has received a positive COVID-19 test 
• Not wearing a mask when in public and closer than six feet to others  
• Dining indoors at a restaurant or bar 
• Being in a group with people who aren’t social distancing or wearing masks 
• Being in a large group of more than 10 people or crowded place 

• Hamilton County remains in the Red/Level 3 with cases rising steadily and hospitalizations remaining elevated.  
• Although Hamilton county is no longer listed on Ohio’s watch list for Purple/Level 4, there are still serious concerns about the spread here.  
• As of Thursday, 83 of Ohio’s 88 counties have a high incidence of COVID-19. 
• Gov. DeWine said a big part of the spread is coming from informal gatherings. 
• Read additional state updates here. 

• Contemporary Art Center 
• Forrest Fair Mall (Abandoned) 
• Krohn Conservatory 
• Grocery Stores 
• Freedom Center 
• Cincinnati Art Museum 
• Sign Museum 
• Fort Ancient Museum 
• Creation Museum
• Hobby Lobby

• Madison Bowl (M-F Opening to 3 PM) 
• Cincinnati Public Library (vulnerable population hours: Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 10 a.m. – noon) 
• Air Force Museum (M-F Opening to 3 PM) 
• At Home Store on Ridge Road (M-F Opening to 3 PM) 
• AJ Rand Greenhouse (M-F Opening to 3 PM) 
• Findlay Market (non-eating/drinking facilities) (M-F Opening to 3 PM) 
• Game Works (M-F Opening to 3 PM)

• Staff must be vigilant for people not adhering to the site’s posted policies and report them to the facility’s staff 
• Staff must ensure greater than 6 feet of social distancing 
• Staff must ensure other visitors are wearing masks and our team wears masks the entire time 
• Should these be violated, staff must remove the group from the location 

• Asthma 
• Cerebrovascular disease 
• Cystic fibrosis (CF) 
• Hypertensive heart disease (HTN) 
• Neurologic conditions 
• Liver disease 
• Pregnancy 
• Pulmonary fibrosis 
• Documented Class 2 Obesity 
• Current smokers 
• Thalassemia 
• Type 1 diabetes (DM) 

• Cancer 
• Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) 
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) 
• Immunocompromised persons 
• Serious heart complications (CHF, CAD, Cardiomyopathy, MI, etc.) 
• Documented Class 3 Obesity 
• Sickle cell disease 
• Type 2 Diabetes (DM) 

• South Dakota  
• Idaho  
• Wisconsin 
• Iowa  
• Alabama 
• Kansas  
• Nevada 
• Nebraska 
• Utah   

• Temperature and symptom checks by all frontline staff before reporting to work 
• Rigorous handwashing throughout the day 
• Mask wearing while at work 
• Social distancing when possible 
• Disinfecting commonly touched surfaces throughout the day 
• Using foggers to disinfect vehicles before outings  
• Limited indoor outings, vetted and approved by our COVID-19 Task Force based on CDC guidance
• Employees stay home if they are sick or a member of their household is sick 
• Family visits outside with masks and social distancing  

To LADD families and loved ones, 

Currently, LADD has no active, confirmed COVID-19 cases.  

However, Hamilton, along with Clark and Cuyahoga counties, are on Ohio’s Watch List for approaching Purple Level 4. With Hamilton County cases and hospitalizations reaching levels not seen since the beginning of the pandemic, the governor is calling on all of us to “take this seriously and don’t let up.”  

According to local health departments across the state, spread is primarily occurring during social and family gatherings. It is critical when gatherings take place at LADD – including social gatherings and family visits – everyone is wearing masks, staying six feet apart, washing your hands before and after, and not attending if you are feeling sick.  

Your partnership in these efforts have brought us this far – I know we can continue to stay ahead of the spread as long as we keep our guard up. We will be sharing more details next week on what happens if Hamilton County reaches Level 4. Thank you for all you are doing to keep your loved ones and our community safe.  

Approved Indoor Outings for Red / Level 3 

LADD staff are allowed to take the people they support on the below indoor outings when Hamilton County is at a Level 3 / Red or lower on the Public Health Advisory System.  

Approved 

• Contemporary Art Center 

• Forrest Fair Mall (Abandoned) 
• Krohn Conservatory 
• Grocery Stores 
• Freedom Center 
• Cincinnati Art Museum 

• Sign Museum  
• Fort Ancient Museum 

Approved with limited hours: 

• Madison Bowl (M-F Opening to 3 PM) 

• Brentwood Bowl (M-F Opening to 3 PM) 
• Cincinnati Public Library (vulnerable population hours: Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 10 a.m. – noon) 
• Air Force Museum (M-F Opening to 3 PM) 
• At Home Store on Ridge Road (M-F Opening to 3 PM) 
• AJ Rand Greenhouse (M-F Opening to 3 PM) 

• Findlay Market (non-eating/drinking facilities) (M-F Opening to 3 PM) 

Safety Requirements  

• Staff must be vigilant for people not adhering to the site’s posted policies and report them to the facility’s staff  
• Staff must ensure greater than 6 feet of social distancing  

• Staff must ensure other visitors are wearing masks and our team wears masks the entire time  
• Should  these  be  violated,  staff  must remove the group from the location  

The health and safety of each  person  will  be taken into account before going on these outings. Program managers  will  check for comorbidities, which may increase  a  person’s risk. The requirements for someone with a comorbidity are below.   

Moderate  Comorbidities  

If someone has a “moderate” comorbidity, as determined by the CDC, LADD staff will have  a conversation with the person about their increased risks when entering an indoor location and obtain consent from the person following that conversation. Moderate comorbidities include:  

• Asthma  
• Cerebrovascular disease  
• Cystic fibrosis (CF)  

• Hypertensive heart disease (HTN)  
• Neurologic conditions  
• Liver disease  
• Pregnancy  
• Pulmonary fibrosis  

• Documented Class 2 Obesity  
• Current smokers  
• Thalassemia  
• Type 1 diabetes (DM)  

Severe  Comorbidities   

If someone has a “severe” comorbidity,  we will talk  with them  about their increased risks when entering an indoor location  and ask them to wear a KN95 mask in the facility.  In this case, the person must  consent to the outing  and  wearing a KN95 mask. Severe comorbidities include:  

• Cancer  
• Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)  
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)  

• Immunocompromised persons  
• Serious heart complications (CHF, CAD, Cardiomyopathy, MI, etc.)  
• Documented Class 3 Obesity  
• Sickle cell disease  
• Type 2 Diabetes (DM)  

Voting in the Pandemic 

The voices of people with developmental disabilities must be heard at the ballot box, and we can help ensure those we support exercise their right to vote. With the pandemic, mail-in voting has become an important option, especially for those at higher risk.   

Ohio Mail-In Voting: 

• Deadline to request the ballot by mail: Oct. 31 
• Where to apply for absentee: By mail 
• Ballots due, if mailed: Postmarked by Nov. 2 
• Who can request a mailed ballot: Any registered voter  

State Updates  

• Hamilton County remains at a Level 3/Red on the state’s Public Health Advisory System but is approaching Level 4/Purple. Level 3 indicates very high exposure and spread and gives guidance to limit activities as much as possible. 

• A statewide mask mandate is in effect in all 88 Ohio counties. Masks continue to be required for all frontline staff while at work.   

• Read additional state updates here.  

Day Program Guidance

• The Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities’ mandatory practices and best practices for facility-based day programs can be found here.  
• The decision for someone to return to a day program will be made on an individual basis after completing a required risk assessment. The risk assessment will involve LADD, the day program, your loved one, their guardian and SSA. This assessment takes into account all risks including the individual’s health, living situation, housemates and transportation.   

Ohio Travel Advisory  

Those entering Ohio after travel to states reporting positive testing rates of 15 percent or higher for COVID-19 are advised to self-quarantine for 14 days. The list of states will be updated every week on Wednesday here. Currently, affected states are: 

• South Dakota  
• Idaho  
• Iowa  

• Kansas  
• Nevada 
• Alabama 
• Utah 

We are assessing on a case-by-case basis the steps that may be needed, including quarantine or testing, to ensure a safe return to work if an employee travels.  

Employee Testing  

LADD continues to test new employees, employees experiencing symptoms or with direct exposures. New employees are now tested with an antibody test seven days before entering a site, monitor themselves for symptoms throughout the week and are tested again right before their first shift. Nearly 70 staff at high-risk sites also undergo monthly antibody testing as a first layer of testing.  

• While there are limits to antibody testing, it offers additional information and a layer of testing that we have not had access to previously. Antibody tests will not be used as the sole basis to diagnose a COVID-19 infection, but if certain antibodies test positive, we will move forward with a swab test. While we will inform our entire community of a positive case, identities will remain confidential.  
• This, as you know, continues to be a fluid situation and we will continue working to receive additional resources and testing capacity.   

Pop-up Testing: 

Oct. 25 

Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office Parking Lot 
1000 Sycamore St. 
Cincinnati, OH 45202     
10 a.m. – 2 p.m.  

Additional pop-up testing: healthcollab.org/testandprotect.  

Virtual Events  

Visit laddinc.org/calendar to view a full calendar of virtual events at LADD. There is a waiting room and the host will need to let you into Zoom events. Please contact LADD staff at development@laddinc.org if you have any technical issues.  

Prevention measures 

In addition to our testing measures, we continue to require: 

• Temperature and symptom checks by all frontline staff before reporting to work 
• Rigorous handwashing throughout the day 
• Mask wearing while at work 

• Social distancing when possible 
• Disinfecting commonly touched surfaces throughout the day 
• Using foggers to disinfect vehicles before outings  
• Limited indoor outings, vetted and approved by our COVID-19 Task Force based on CDC guidance  
• Employees stay home if they are sick or a member of their household is sick 

• Family visits outside with masks and social distancing  

Please visit laddinc.org/covid-19-announcement for past updates and email any questions or concerns to staysafe@laddinc.org.  

Sincerely,  

Susan Brownknight  

CEO, LADD  

• Deadline to request the ballot by mail: Oct. 31 
• Where to apply for absentee: By mail 
• Ballots due, if mailed: Postmarked by Nov. 2 
• Who can request a mailed ballot: Any registered voter 

• Hamilton County increased to Level 3/Red on the state’s Public Health Advisory System but is approaching a Level 4. Level 3 indicates very high exposure and spread and gives guidance to limit activities as much as possible. 

• A statewide mask mandate is in effect in all 88 Ohio counties. Masks continue to be required for all frontline staff while at work.  

• Read additional state updates here. 

• South Dakota 
• Idaho  
• Wisconsin  
• Iowa  
• Wyoming 
•  

• Temperature and symptom checks by all frontline staff before reporting to work 
• Rigorous handwashing throughout the day 
• Mask wearing while at work 
• Social distancing when possible 
• Disinfecting commonly touched surfaces throughout the day 
• Using foggers to disinfect vehicles before outings  
• Limited indoor outings, vetted and approved by our COVID-19 Task Force based on CDC guidance
• Employees stay home if they are sick or a member of their household is sick 
• Family visits outside with masks and social distancing  

• Deadline to request the ballot by mail: Oct. 31 
• Where to apply for absentee: By mail 
• Ballots due, if mailed: Postmarked by Nov. 2 
• Who can request a mailed ballot: Any registered voter 

• Hamilton County increased to Level 3/Red on the state’s Public Health Advisory System. Level 3 indicates very high exposure and spread and gives guidance to limit activities as much as possible. 

• A statewide mask mandate is in effect in all 88 Ohio counties. Masks continue to be required for all frontline staff while at work.  

• Read additional state updates here. 

• South Dakota 
• Idaho 
• Wisconsin 
• Iowa 
• Kansas
• Wyoming 
• Missouri   

• Temperature and symptom checks by all frontline staff before reporting to work 
• Rigorous handwashing throughout the day 
• Mask wearing while at work 
• Social distancing when possible 
• Disinfecting commonly touched surfaces throughout the day 
• Using foggers to disinfect vehicles before outings  
• Limited indoor outings, vetted and approved by our COVID-19 Task Force based on CDC guidance
• Employees stay home if they are sick or a member of their household is sick 
• Family visits outside with masks and social distancing  

• Deadline to request the ballot by mail:  Oct. 31 
• Where to apply for absentee:  By mail 
• Ballots due, if mailed:  Postmarked by Nov. 2 
• Who can request a mailed ballot:  Any registered voter 

• Hamilton County increased to Level 3/Red on the state’s Public Health Advisory System. Level 3 indicates very high exposure and spread and gives guidance to limit activities as much as possible. 

• A statewide mask mandate is in effect in all 88 Ohio counties.  Masks continue to be required for all frontline staff while at work.  

• Read additional state updates here. 

• South Dakota 
• Idaho 
• Wisconsin 
• Iowa 
• Kansas 
• Missouri 
• Mississippi  

• Temperature and symptom checks by all frontline staff before reporting to work 
• Rigorous handwashing throughout the day 
• Mask wearing while at work 
• Social distancing when possible 
• Disinfecting commonly touched surfaces throughout the day 
• Using foggers to disinfect vehicles before outings  
• Limited indoor outings, vetted and approved by our COVID-19 Task Force based on CDC guidance – no indoor outings at a Red / Level 3 or above on Ohio’s Public Health Advisory System 
• Employees stay home if they are sick or a member of their household is sick 
• Family visits outside with masks and social distancing  

• Asthma 
• Cerebrovascular disease 
• Cystic fibrosis (CF) 
• Hypertensive heart disease (HTN) 
• Neurologic conditions 
• Liver disease 
• Pregnancy 
• Pulmonary fibrosis 
• Documented Class 2 Obesity 
• Current smokers 
• Thalassemia 
• Type 1 diabetes (DM) 

• Cancer 
• Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) 
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) 
• Immunocompromised persons 
• Serious heart complications (CHF, CAD, Cardiomyopathy, MI, etc.) 
• Documented Class 3 Obesity 
• Sickle cell disease 
• Type 2 Diabetes (DM) 

• Contemporary Arts Center 
• Forest Fair Mall (Abandoned) 
• Krohn Conservatory 
• Grocery stores 
• National Underground Railroad Freedom Center 
• Cincinnati Art Museum 

• Grand Antique Mall 
• AJ Rand Greenhouse 
• Riverside Antique Mall 
• Ohio Valley Antique Mall 
• Kenwood Mall 
• Air Force Museum 
• Cincinnati Public Library (Vulnerable populations hours: Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 10 a.m. – noon.) 

• Staff must be vigilant for people not adhering to the site’s posted policies and report them to the facility’s staff 
• Staff must ensure greater than 6 feet of social distancing 
• Staff must ensure other visitors are wearing masks and our team wears masks the entire time 
• Should these be violated, staff must remove the group from the location 

• Volunteers will complete an enhanced volunteer orientation that discusses social distancing, mask wearing, updated personal information of volunteers for tracing, and how to conduct personal health assessment prior to meeting people supported by LADD.   
• An agreement outlining what is required of volunteers will be drawn and signed by each person involved.   
• Volunteers must take an antibody test, supplied by LADD prior to volunteering. 
• If the volunteers have a known exposure, they must take another test before returning. An exposure defined by the CDC is when an individual has had close contact (less than 6 feet) for 15 minutes or more with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19. 

• Prior to each interaction with people supported by LADD, volunteers will complete a quick health assessment form indicating they are not experiencing any COVID symptoms.   
• A temperature check will be made of all participants and recorded at each event.   
• Volunteers must also take their temperature 2 hours before. 

• Volunteers are approved for outdoor activities in groups of 10 or less. 
• Program managers will sign off on specific activities for the participants in the programs, confirming the risk level is appropriate for participants in the program. 

• Volunteers are only approved when Hamilton County is at a level 1 or 2 on Ohio’s Public Health Advisory System.  
• All persons involved, including volunteers and people supported by LADD, must wear a facial mask unless they are participating in outdoor physical activity and are able to maintain at least 6 feet of distance at all times. Staff may politely intervene if they see 6 feet is being compromised. 
• Volunteers can only volunteer at one site. No crossover. 
• No physical contact shall be made between volunteers and persons served. For example, no high fives, no patting on the back, no hugging, etc. If both parties have masks on, participants can give elbow bumps when they leave.  
• Volunteers will be encouraged to use the bathroom before arriving and not in someone’s home. If they must use the bathroom at someone’s home, they must wear masks and follow that location’s approved process.  
• Participants must wash their hands when the activity is over. 

• Deadline to request the ballot by mail: Oct. 31 
• Where to apply for absentee:  By mail 
• Ballots due, if mailed: Postmarked by Nov. 2 
• Who can request a mailed ballot: Any registered voter 

• Deadline to request the ballot by mail: Oct. 31 
• Where to apply for absentee: By mail 
• Ballots due, if mailed: Postmarked by Nov. 2 
• Who can request a mailed ballot: Any registered voter 

• Hamilton County remains at a Level 2/Orange on the state’s Public Health Advisory System. Gov. DeWine cited mask usage, social distancing and testing as factors and said we must continue these efforts to lower the virus spread further. Level 2 indicates increased exposure and spread and gives guidance to exercise a high degree of caution.  

• Gov. DeWine has released guidance on the number of spectators at outdoor and indoor sports venues as well as requirements for entertainment venues to host events. At LADD, we continue to avoid crowds and are assessing which indoor outings may be safe while the county is at a Level 2 or lower.

• Mass gatherings in Ohio remain limited to 10 people. Find more information here.  

• Alcohol sales are banned at Ohio restaurants and bars after 10pm. Find more information in Gov. DeWine’s news release.  

• A statewide mask mandate is in effect in all 88 Ohio counties. Masks continue to be required for all frontline staff while at work.  

• Read additional state updates here. 

• Alabama 
• South Dakota 
• North Dakota 
• Kansas 

• Temperature and symptom checks by all frontline staff before reporting to work 
• Rigorous handwashing throughout the day 
• Mask wearing while at work 
• Social distancing when possible 
• Disinfecting commonly touched surfaces throughout the day 
• Using foggers to disinfect vehicles before outings  
• Outings limited to outdoor places and avoiding crowds 
• Employees stay home if they are sick or a member of their household is sick 
• Family visits outside with masks and social distancing  

• Deadline to request the ballot by mail: Oct. 31 
• Where to apply for absentee: By mail 
• Ballots due, if mailed: Postmarked by Nov. 2 
• Who can request a mailed ballot: Any registered voter 

• Hamilton County remains at a Level 2/Orange on the state’s Public Health Advisory System. Gov. DeWine cited mask usage, social distancing and testing as factors and said we must continue these efforts to lower the virus spread further. Level 2 indicates increased exposure and spread and gives guidance to exercise a high degree of caution.  

• Gov. DeWine has released guidance on the number of spectators at outdoor and indoor sports venues as well as requirements for entertainment venues to host events. At LADD, our outdoor outings policy remains in effect but we are assessing which indoor outings may be safe while the county is at a Level 2 or lower.

• Mass gatherings in Ohio remain limited to 10 people. Find more information here.  

• Alcohol sales are banned at Ohio restaurants and bars after 10pm. Find more information in Gov. DeWine’s news release.  

• A statewide mask mandate is in effect in all 88 Ohio counties. Masks continue to be required for all frontline staff while at work.  

• Read additional state updates here. 

• Alabama 
• South Dakota 
• North Dakota 
• Iowa 
• Kansas 
• Nevada 
• Idaho 

• Temperature and symptom checks by all frontline staff before reporting to work 
• Rigorous handwashing throughout the day 
• Mask wearing while at work 
• Social distancing when possible 
• Disinfecting commonly touched surfaces throughout the day 
• Using foggers to disinfect vehicles before outings  
• Outings limited to outdoor places and avoiding crowds 
• Employees stay home if they are sick or a member of their household is sick 
• Family visits outside with masks and social distancing  

• Deadline to request the ballot by mail:  Oct. 31 
• Where to apply for absentee:  By mail 
• Ballots due, if mailed:  Postmarked by Nov. 2 
• Who can request a mailed ballot:  Any registered voter 

• Hamilton County remains at a Level 2/Orange on the state’s Public Health Advisory System. Gov. DeWine cited mask usage, social distancing and testing as factors and said we must continue these efforts to lower the virus spread further. Level 2 indicates increased exposure and spread and gives guidance to exercise a high degree of caution.  

• Gov. DeWine has released guidance on the number of spectators at outdoor and indoor sports venues as well as requirements for entertainment venues to host events. At LADD, we continue to only attend outdoor outings and avoid crowds.  

• Mass gatherings in Ohio remain limited to 10 people. Find more information here.  

• Alcohol sales are banned at Ohio restaurants and bars after 10pm. Find more information in Gov. DeWine’s news release.  

• A statewide mask mandate is in effect in all 88 Ohio counties.  Masks continue to be required for all frontline staff while at work.  

• Read additional state updates here. 

• Mississippi  
• South Carolina 
• Texas 
• Idaho 

• Temperature and symptom checks by all frontline staff before reporting to work 
• Rigorous handwashing throughout the day 
• Mask wearing while at work 
• Social distancing when possible 
• Disinfecting commonly touched surfaces throughout the day 
• Using foggers to disinfect vehicles before outings  
• Outings limited to outdoor places and avoiding crowds 
• Employees stay home if they are sick or a member of their household is sick 
• Family visits outside with masks and social distancing  

To LADD families and loved ones,    

Ohio Orders

Ohio Travel Advisory 

Those entering Ohio after travel to states reporting positive testing rates of 15 percent or higher for COVID-19 are advised to self-quarantine for 14 days. The list of states will be updated every week on Wednesday here. Currently, affected states are: 

• Mississippi  
• Florida 
• Idaho 
• Nevada 

We are assessing on a case-by-case basis the steps that may be needed, including quarantine or testing, to ensure a safe return to work if an employee travels. 

Additional Updates as of Aug. 21, 2020: 

• Day Program Guidance: 
  • Governor DeWine announced yesterday that adult day care centers and senior centers may open at a reduced capacity beginning on Sept. 21 if the facilities can meet certain safety standards outlined in a forthcoming health order. 
    • “By delaying the opening until September 21, we are providing time for each center to properly prepare based on the order’s guidelines,” said Governor DeWine. “Each center should consider a variety of factors when determining its ability to reopen, including the case status in the surrounding community.” The full plan and health order will be posted soon at coronavirus.ohio.gov.
  • The Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities (DODD) has released updated guidance on facility-based day programs. The department is no longer requiring separate entrances/exits and bathrooms for different groups but is strongly recommending it. Other mandatory practices and best practices can be found here. The program  must  still be certified by the county and state to reopen, maintain social distancing and allow no more than 10  people  including staff,  among other requirements. The decision for someone to return to a day program will be made on an individual basis after completing a  required  risk assessment.   

• • The risk assessment will involve LADD, the day program,  your loved one, their  guardian and SSA.  This assessment takes into account all risks including the individual’s health, living situation, housemates and transportation.  

• Employee Testing: In addition to testing new employees, employees experiencing symptoms and employees with direct and indirect exposures, frontline employees have also requested ongoing testing options. Our COVID-19 Task Force has taken this request seriously, developing a plan that is as comprehensive as possible while taking into account the availability of tests and laboratory capabilities.  

• • We have identified nearly 70 staff members for monthly testing beginning in mid-July. These staff members were identified based on two factors:  
    • Number of people supported by LADD that the staff member has direct contact with. 
    • Health status/risk factors of the people the staff member supports.  

• • The testing will be conducted by LADD’s registered nurse in a drive-thru capacity. We will utilize antibody tests as our first layer of testing. While there are limits to antibody testing, it offers additional information and a layer of testing that we have not had access to previously.  Antibody tests will not be used as the sole basis to diagnose a COVID-19 infection, but if certain antibodies test positive, we will move forward with a swab test. While we will inform our entire community of a positive case, identities will remain confidential.  
  • This, as you know, continues to be a fluid situation and we will continue working to receive additional resources and testing capacity.  

• Virtual Events: Visit laddinc.org/calendar to view a full calendar of virtual events at LADD.
  • There is a waiting room and the host will need to let you into Zoom events. Please contact LADD staff at development@laddinc.org if you have any technical issues.  

• Mitigating Indirect Exposures: As the state and nation continue to reopen, we expect to see more “indirect exposure” situations among many Ohioans, including our frontline employees. Indirect exposure in this case means a DSP was in contact with someone who came into contact with someone else who was confirmed with COVID-19.  

• • Out of an abundance of caution, we will take the following steps if a LADD DSP reports to us an indirect exposure:  

• • • We will remove the employee from the schedule. If they do not have PTO, we will work with them to continue to be paid.    
    • We will require COVID-19 testing or a quarantine for 14 days (unless the person with direct exposure that is in contact with the employee received a negative test).  
    • We will conduct an additional deep cleaning of the residence. 
    • We will not add the employee back to the schedule until 14 days pass with no symptoms; they receive a negative test result; or the person with the direct exposure that had contact with the employee receives a negative test.

• •  
  • In a case where a DSP reports symptoms or a direct exposure to someone confirmed with COVID-19: 
  •  

• • • We will remove them from the schedule.  
    • We will require them to be tested. 
    • We will notify the families of individuals who work with that DSP.
    • We will not add them back to the schedule until they receive a negative result. 
    • We will conduct an additional deep cleaning of the residence. 

• • These procedures are subject to change as the situation around COVID-19 and state and local guidance remains fluid. We will notify you of any changes. 
  • All families and staff members will be informed of a positive case. 

• Geier and Find-A-Way Guidance: Geier and Find-A-Way Apartments are subsidized by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and therefore operate under different federal guidelines than do our other programs. Currently, we are encouraging family to not enter residences and instead visit outdoors while practicing social distancing and wearing masks. If anyone does enter the building, such as another provider, they are required to wear a mask, sign-in and wash their hands upon entering the lobby.  

• • We are encouraging small groups of residents to meet outside with social distancing and mask wearing. We are also supporting a new gardening area and outdoor movies on the lawn where people can maintain social distance. 
  • We are encouraging any residents returning to FAW/Geier to be tested before returning. If a returning resident does not receive a test, we will: 

• • Ask them to self-quarantine for seven days 
  • Check on their temperature and symptoms each day 
  • Strongly encourage them to stay away from others until cleared 
  • We continue to uphold these safety policies: 

• • • Only one person in the elevator (except when support is needed) 
    • Only two people in the laundry room at any time 
    • Community room is closed to public
    • No congregating in the lobby
    • Performing well-check calls daily with all FAW and Geier residents
    • Robust cleaning schedule still in effect 

• LADD’s Phased Reopening: We are currently in Phase 2 of our reopening with outdoor socially distanced family visits, new transportation protocols and outdoor outings. Find more information in the Phased Reopening Plan. 

• • Family visits require: 

• • • An outdoor setting  
    • All individuals maintaining 6 feet social distancing 
    • All individuals wearing masks while visiting
    • Scheduling ahead of time  
  • Safe outdoor outings: We are requiring outings facilitated by staff to meet the following criteria: 
    • Outdoors: Must be outside; no  outings to indoor facilities  unless essential, such as a doctor’s  appointment.  
    • Social distancing: Must maintain  6 feet from others.  
    • Reservations: If it is not a park, but some other  organized  outdoor activity, such as the zoo or a  restaurant with outdoor seating,  the location must require reservations. This helps ensure these  locations are not overcrowded and social distancing can be maintained.  
    • No long lines/crowds: Even if  the  activity  is outside and requires reservations,  but  features  long lines  or is crowded in general  (such as  amusement parks  or fairs),  these settings  increase the  risk of virus  exposure and must be avoided.  

• • • Masks:  Masks  must  still be worn unless physically impossible or a threat to someone’s health and  safety.  

• Hospital guidance: We are aware of a few cases where DSPs and families have been denied entry to support people with disabilities if they are admitted to a hospital. Rules and regulations vary between hospitals and even floors of the same hospital. As such, we have developed a protocol in which we involve the county to work with the hospital if a LADD DSP encounters a denial of entry. DODD’s guidance for hospitals is available here and has also been distributed to LADD staff.  

• Community Connections (CCP) safely reopening: LADD’s day programs have begun reopening with guidance from Hamilton County Developmental Disabilities Services. Requirements include reduced group sizes, preferably people living together, risk assessments and approval from any guardian (CCP staff coordinate the paperwork), and vehicle cleaning and seating protocols. Groups, if they go somewhere, will be outside, practice social distancing with the general public and wear masks. CCP is also offering a virtual day program option. 

• Envision Therapy: We are aware Envision Therapy Assistants are beginning to schedule home visits with interested clients. We have not yet finalized a protocol for anyone at LADD to receive home therapy visits and will continue with teletherapy until we have a protocol in place.  

• Resident Testing: We continue to work tirelessly to expand our access to testing. The Cincinnati Health Department has assured us their support and access to tests should we experience any cases in congregate living settings. The state recently tested employees and individuals served at the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities’ eight developmental centers. LADD is working hard to move up on the state’s list of priority testing.  

• Testing for residents returning to LADD: We are asking that anyone who receives residential services from LADD and is currently living with family members but wishes to return to their LADD residence to undergo testing. Procedure to obtain testing prior to returning: 

• • Family to contact PCP for person who receives LADD services and request testing before returning to a group living setting for people with developmental disabilities.  
  • Submit negative test result to LADD Program Staff. 
  • If unable to obtain testing, work with LADD Program Staff on alternative testing options. 

• Masks: We have provided each frontline employee three cloth masks and two masks to each person supported by LADD. We continue to monitor all sanitization supplies and replenish them as needed.  

• Your loved one returning to work: Your loved one may soon return to work as many businesses begin reopening. Supported Employment will include the employee, the employee’s family and the employer in the discussion of returning to work, safety requirements at work and additional coaching needs related to safety protocols. Please contact Laura Grimes at lgrimes@laddinc.org with any questions. 

• Prevention measures: We continue to require temperature and symptom checks by all frontline staff before reporting to work; rigorous handwashing throughout the day; mask wearing while at work; social distancing when possible; disinfecting commonly touched surfaces throughout the day; using foggers to disinfect vehicles before outings; and requiring employees to stay home if they are sick or a member of their household is sick.  

Please email any questions or concerns to staysafe@laddinc.org and visit laddinc.org/covid-19-announcement for past updates. 

Sincerely,  

Susan Brownknight  

CEO, LADD  

To LADD families and loved ones,    

Ohio Orders

Ohio Travel Advisory 

Those entering Ohio after travel to states reporting positive testing rates of 15 percent or higher for COVID-19 are advised to self-quarantine for 14 days. The list of states will be updated every week on Wednesday here. Currently, affected states are: 

• Mississippi  
• Arizona 
• Florida 
• Alabama 
• Idaho 
• Nevada 

We are assessing on a case-by-case basis the steps that may be needed, including quarantine or testing, to ensure a safe return to work if an employee travels.  

Additional Updates as of Aug. 7, 2020: 

• Updated Day Program Guidance: The Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities (DODD) has released updated guidance on facility-based day programs. The department is no longer requiring separate entrances/exits and bathrooms for different groups but is strongly recommending it. Other mandatory practices and best practices can be found here. The program  must  still be certified by the county and state to reopen, maintain social distancing and allow no more than 10  people  including staff,  among other requirements. The decision for someone to return to a day program will be made on an individual basis after completing a  required  risk assessment.   

• • The risk assessment will involve LADD, the day program,  your loved one, their  guardian and SSA.  This assessment takes into account all risks including the individual’s health, living situation, housemates and transportation.  

• Employee Testing: In addition to testing new employees, employees experiencing symptoms and employees with direct and indirect exposures, frontline employees have also requested ongoing testing options. Our COVID-19 Task Force has taken this request seriously, developing a plan that is as comprehensive as possible while taking into account the availability of tests and laboratory capabilities.  

• • We have identified nearly 70 staff members for monthly testing beginning in mid-July. These staff members were identified based on two factors:  
    • Number of people supported by LADD that the staff member has direct contact with. 
    • Health status/risk factors of the people the staff member supports.  

• • The testing will be conducted by LADD’s registered nurse in a drive-thru capacity. We will utilize antibody tests as our first layer of testing. While there are limits to antibody testing, it offers additional information and a layer of testing that we have not had access to previously.  Antibody tests will not be used as the sole basis to diagnose a COVID-19 infection, but if certain antibodies test positive, we will move forward with a swab test. While we will inform our entire community of a positive case, identities will remain confidential.  
  • This, as you know, continues to be a fluid situation and we will continue working to receive additional resources and testing capacity.  

• Virtual Events: Visit laddinc.org/calendar to view a full calendar of virtual events at LADD.
  • There is a waiting room and the host will need to let you into Zoom events. Please contact LADD staff at development@laddinc.org if you have any technical issues.  

• Mitigating Indirect Exposures: As the state and nation continue to reopen, we expect to see more “indirect exposure” situations among many Ohioans, including our frontline employees. Indirect exposure in this case means a DSP was in contact with someone who came into contact with someone else who was confirmed with COVID-19.  

• • Out of an abundance of caution, we will take the following steps if a LADD DSP reports to us an indirect exposure:  

• • • We will remove the employee from the schedule. If they do not have PTO, we will work with them to continue to be paid.    
    • We will require COVID-19 testing or a quarantine for 14 days (unless the person with direct exposure that is in contact with the employee received a negative test).  
    • We will conduct an additional deep cleaning of the residence. 
    • We will not add the employee back to the schedule until 14 days pass with no symptoms; they receive a negative test result; or the person with the direct exposure that had contact with the employee receives a negative test.

• •  
  • In a case where a DSP reports symptoms or a direct exposure to someone confirmed with COVID-19: 
  •  

• • • We will remove them from the schedule.  
    • We will require them to be tested. 
    • We will notify the families of individuals who work with that DSP.
    • We will not add them back to the schedule until they receive a negative result. 
    • We will conduct an additional deep cleaning of the residence. 

• • These procedures are subject to change as the situation around COVID-19 and state and local guidance remains fluid. We will notify you of any changes. 
  • All families and staff members will be informed of a positive case. 

• Geier and Find-A-Way Guidance: Geier and Find-A-Way Apartments are subsidized by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and therefore operate under different federal guidelines than do our other programs. Currently, we are encouraging family to not enter residences and instead visit outdoors while practicing social distancing and wearing masks. If anyone does enter the building, such as another provider, they are required to wear a mask, sign-in and wash their hands upon entering the lobby.  

• • We are encouraging small groups of residents to meet outside with social distancing and mask wearing. We are also supporting a new gardening area and outdoor movies on the lawn where people can maintain social distance. 
  • We are encouraging any residents returning to FAW/Geier to be tested before returning. If a returning resident does not receive a test, we will: 

• • Ask them to self-quarantine for seven days 
  • Check on their temperature and symptoms each day 
  • Strongly encourage them to stay away from others until cleared 
  • We continue to uphold these safety policies: 

• • • Only one person in the elevator (except when support is needed) 
    • Only two people in the laundry room at any time 
    • Community room is closed to public
    • No congregating in the lobby
    • Performing well-check calls daily with all FAW and Geier residents
    • Robust cleaning schedule still in effect 

• LADD’s Phased Reopening: We are currently in Phase 2 of our reopening with outdoor socially distanced family visits, new transportation protocols and outdoor outings. Find more information in the Phased Reopening Plan. 

• • Family visits require: 

• • • An outdoor setting  
    • All individuals maintaining 6 feet social distancing 
    • All individuals wearing masks while visiting
    • Scheduling ahead of time  
  • Safe outdoor outings: We are requiring outings facilitated by staff to meet the following criteria: 
    • Outdoors: Must be outside; no  outings to indoor facilities  unless essential, such as a doctor’s  appointment.  
    • Social distancing: Must maintain  6 feet from others.  
    • Reservations: If it is not a park, but some other  organized  outdoor activity, such as the zoo or a  restaurant with outdoor seating,  the location must require reservations. This helps ensure these  locations are not overcrowded and social distancing can be maintained.  
    • No long lines/crowds: Even if  the  activity  is outside and requires reservations,  but  features  long lines  or is crowded in general  (such as  amusement parks  or fairs),  these settings  increase the  risk of virus  exposure and must be avoided.  

• • • Masks:  Masks  must  still be worn unless physically impossible or a threat to someone’s health and  safety.  

• Hospital guidance: We are aware of a few cases where DSPs and families have been denied entry to support people with disabilities if they are admitted to a hospital. Rules and regulations vary between hospitals and even floors of the same hospital. As such, we have developed a protocol in which we involve the county to work with the hospital if a LADD DSP encounters a denial of entry. DODD’s guidance for hospitals is available here and has also been distributed to LADD staff.  

• Community Connections (CCP) safely reopening: LADD’s day programs have begun reopening with guidance from Hamilton County Developmental Disabilities Services. Requirements include reduced group sizes, preferably people living together, risk assessments and approval from any guardian (CCP staff coordinate the paperwork), and vehicle cleaning and seating protocols. Groups, if they go somewhere, will be outside, practice social distancing with the general public and wear masks. CCP is also offering a virtual day program option. 

• Envision Therapy: We are aware Envision Therapy Assistants are beginning to schedule home visits with interested clients. We have not yet finalized a protocol for anyone at LADD to receive home therapy visits and will continue with teletherapy until we have a protocol in place.  

• Resident Testing: We continue to work tirelessly to expand our access to testing. The Cincinnati Health Department has assured us their support and access to tests should we experience any cases in congregate living settings. The state recently tested employees and individuals served at the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities’ eight developmental centers. LADD is working hard to move up on the state’s list of priority testing.  

• Testing for residents returning to LADD: We are asking that anyone who receives residential services from LADD and is currently living with family members but wishes to return to their LADD residence to undergo testing. Procedure to obtain testing prior to returning: 

• • Family to contact PCP for person who receives LADD services and request testing before returning to a group living setting for people with developmental disabilities.  
  • Submit negative test result to LADD Program Staff. 
  • If unable to obtain testing, work with LADD Program Staff on alternative testing options. 

• Masks: We have provided each frontline employee three cloth masks and two masks to each person supported by LADD. We continue to monitor all sanitization supplies and replenish them as needed.  

• Your loved one returning to work: Your loved one may soon return to work as many businesses begin reopening. Supported Employment will include the employee, the employee’s family and the employer in the discussion of returning to work, safety requirements at work and additional coaching needs related to safety protocols. Please contact Laura Grimes at lgrimes@laddinc.org with any questions. 

• Prevention measures: We continue to require temperature and symptom checks by all frontline staff before reporting to work; rigorous handwashing throughout the day; mask wearing while at work; social distancing when possible; disinfecting commonly touched surfaces throughout the day; using foggers to disinfect vehicles before outings; and requiring employees to stay home if they are sick or a member of their household is sick.  

Please email any questions or concerns to staysafe@laddinc.org and visit laddinc.org/covid-19-announcement for past updates. 

Sincerely,  

Susan Brownknight  

CEO, LADD  

To LADD families and loved ones,    

Ohio Orders

Ohio Travel Advisory 

Those entering Ohio after travel to states reporting positive testing rates of 15 percent or higher for COVID-19 are advised to self-quarantine for 14 days. The list of states will be updated every week on Wednesday here. Currently, affected states are: 

• Mississippi  
• Arizona 
• Florida 
• Alabama 
• Idaho 
• Nevada 

We are assessing on a case-by-case basis the steps that may be needed, including quarantine or testing, to ensure a safe return to work if an employee travels.  

Additional Updates as of Aug. 7, 2020: 

• Updated Day Program Guidance: The Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities (DODD) has released updated guidance on facility-based day programs. The department is no longer requiring separate entrances/exits and bathrooms for different groups but is strongly recommending it. Other mandatory practices and best practices can be found here. The program  must  still be certified by the county and state to reopen, maintain social distancing and allow no more than 10  people  including staff,  among other requirements. The decision for someone to return to a day program will be made on an individual basis after completing a  required  risk assessment.   

• • The risk assessment will involve LADD, the day program,  your loved one, their  guardian and SSA.  This assessment takes into account all risks including the individual’s health, living situation, housemates and transportation.  

• Employee Testing: In addition to testing new employees, employees experiencing symptoms and employees with direct and indirect exposures, frontline employees have also requested ongoing testing options. Our COVID-19 Task Force has taken this request seriously, developing a plan that is as comprehensive as possible while taking into account the availability of tests and laboratory capabilities.  

• • We have identified nearly 70 staff members for monthly testing beginning in mid-July. These staff members were identified based on two factors:  
    • Number of people supported by LADD that the staff member has direct contact with. 
    • Health status/risk factors of the people the staff member supports.  

• • The testing will be conducted by LADD’s registered nurse in a drive-thru capacity. We will utilize antibody tests as our first layer of testing. While there are limits to antibody testing, it offers additional information and a layer of testing that we have not had access to previously.  Antibody tests will not be used as the sole basis to diagnose a COVID-19 infection, but if certain antibodies test positive, we will move forward with a swab test. While we will inform our entire community of a positive case, identities will remain confidential.  
  • This, as you know, continues to be a fluid situation and we will continue working to receive additional resources and testing capacity.  

• Virtual Events: Visit laddinc.org/calendar to view a full calendar of virtual events at LADD.
  • There is a waiting room and the host will need to let you into Zoom events. Please contact LADD staff at development@laddinc.org if you have any technical issues.  

• Mitigating Indirect Exposures: As the state and nation continue to reopen, we expect to see more “indirect exposure” situations among many Ohioans, including our frontline employees. Indirect exposure in this case means a DSP was in contact with someone who came into contact with someone else who was confirmed with COVID-19.  

• • Out of an abundance of caution, we will take the following steps if a LADD DSP reports to us an indirect exposure:  

• • • We will remove the employee from the schedule. If they do not have PTO, we will work with them to continue to be paid.    
    • We will require COVID-19 testing or a quarantine for 14 days (unless the person with direct exposure that is in contact with the employee received a negative test).  
    • We will conduct an additional deep cleaning of the residence. 
    • We will not add the employee back to the schedule until 14 days pass with no symptoms; they receive a negative test result; or the person with the direct exposure that had contact with the employee receives a negative test.

• •  
  • In a case where a DSP reports symptoms or a direct exposure to someone confirmed with COVID-19: 
  •  

• • • We will remove them from the schedule.  
    • We will require them to be tested. 
    • We will notify the families of individuals who work with that DSP.
    • We will not add them back to the schedule until they receive a negative result. 
    • We will conduct an additional deep cleaning of the residence. 

• • These procedures are subject to change as the situation around COVID-19 and state and local guidance remains fluid. We will notify you of any changes. 
  • All families and staff members will be informed of a positive case. 

• Geier and Find-A-Way Guidance: Geier and Find-A-Way Apartments are subsidized by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and therefore operate under different federal guidelines than do our other programs. Currently, we are encouraging family to not enter residences and instead visit outdoors while practicing social distancing and wearing masks. If anyone does enter the building, such as another provider, they are required to wear a mask, sign-in and wash their hands upon entering the lobby.  

• • We are encouraging small groups of residents to meet outside with social distancing and mask wearing. We are also supporting a new gardening area and outdoor movies on the lawn where people can maintain social distance. 
  • We are encouraging any residents returning to FAW/Geier to be tested before returning. If a returning resident does not receive a test, we will: 

• • Ask them to self-quarantine for seven days 
  • Check on their temperature and symptoms each day 
  • Strongly encourage them to stay away from others until cleared 
  • We continue to uphold these safety policies: 

• • • Only one person in the elevator (except when support is needed) 
    • Only two people in the laundry room at any time 
    • Community room is closed to public
    • No congregating in the lobby
    • Performing well-check calls daily with all FAW and Geier residents
    • Robust cleaning schedule still in effect 

• LADD’s Phased Reopening: We are currently in Phase 2 of our reopening with outdoor socially distanced family visits, new transportation protocols and outdoor outings. Find more information in the Phased Reopening Plan. 

• • Family visits require: 

• • • An outdoor setting  
    • All individuals maintaining 6 feet social distancing 
    • All individuals wearing masks while visiting
    • Scheduling ahead of time  
  • Safe outdoor outings: We are requiring outings facilitated by staff to meet the following criteria: 
    • Outdoors: Must be outside; no  outings to indoor facilities  unless essential, such as a doctor’s  appointment.  
    • Social distancing: Must maintain  6 feet from others.  
    • Reservations: If it is not a park, but some other  organized  outdoor activity, such as the zoo or a  restaurant with outdoor seating,  the location must require reservations. This helps ensure these  locations are not overcrowded and social distancing can be maintained.  
    • No long lines/crowds: Even if  the  activity  is outside and requires reservations,  but  features  long lines  or is crowded in general  (such as  amusement parks  or fairs),  these settings  increase the  risk of virus  exposure and must be avoided.  

• • • Masks:  Masks  must  still be worn unless physically impossible or a threat to someone’s health and  safety.  

• Hospital guidance: We are aware of a few cases where DSPs and families have been denied entry to support people with disabilities if they are admitted to a hospital. Rules and regulations vary between hospitals and even floors of the same hospital. As such, we have developed a protocol in which we involve the county to work with the hospital if a LADD DSP encounters a denial of entry. DODD’s guidance for hospitals is available here and has also been distributed to LADD staff.  

• Community Connections (CCP) safely reopening: LADD’s day programs have begun reopening with guidance from Hamilton County Developmental Disabilities Services. Requirements include reduced group sizes, preferably people living together, risk assessments and approval from any guardian (CCP staff coordinate the paperwork), and vehicle cleaning and seating protocols. Groups, if they go somewhere, will be outside, practice social distancing with the general public and wear masks. CCP is also offering a virtual day program option. 

• Envision Therapy: We are aware Envision Therapy Assistants are beginning to schedule home visits with interested clients. We have not yet finalized a protocol for anyone at LADD to receive home therapy visits and will continue with teletherapy until we have a protocol in place.  

• Resident Testing: We continue to work tirelessly to expand our access to testing. The Cincinnati Health Department has assured us their support and access to tests should we experience any cases in congregate living settings. The state recently tested employees and individuals served at the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities’ eight developmental centers. LADD is working hard to move up on the state’s list of priority testing.  

• Testing for residents returning to LADD: We are asking that anyone who receives residential services from LADD and is currently living with family members but wishes to return to their LADD residence to undergo testing. Procedure to obtain testing prior to returning: 

• • Family to contact PCP for person who receives LADD services and request testing before returning to a group living setting for people with developmental disabilities.  
  • Submit negative test result to LADD Program Staff. 
  • If unable to obtain testing, work with LADD Program Staff on alternative testing options. 

• Masks: We have provided each frontline employee three cloth masks and two masks to each person supported by LADD. We continue to monitor all sanitization supplies and replenish them as needed.  

• Your loved one returning to work: Your loved one may soon return to work as many businesses begin reopening. Supported Employment will include the employee, the employee’s family and the employer in the discussion of returning to work, safety requirements at work and additional coaching needs related to safety protocols. Please contact Laura Grimes at lgrimes@laddinc.org with any questions. 

• Prevention measures: We continue to require temperature and symptom checks by all frontline staff before reporting to work; rigorous handwashing throughout the day; mask wearing while at work; social distancing when possible; disinfecting commonly touched surfaces throughout the day; using foggers to disinfect vehicles before outings; and requiring employees to stay home if they are sick or a member of their household is sick.  

Please email any questions or concerns to staysafe@laddinc.org and visit laddinc.org/covid-19-announcement for past updates. 

Sincerely,  

Susan Brownknight  

CEO, LADD  

To LADD families and loved ones,    

Thus far, we have had three confirmed cases. Of those, all three employees have fully recovered.  And, there was no spread to anyone at LADD in any of these cases.  By following our safety procedures, we have ensured exposure is limited and our community is protected as much as possible in a global pandemic. It is proof that these actions have an impact and small efforts go a long way. 

In fact, following improved mask compliance throughout the county, the Hamilton County Public Health Commissioner is reporting several positive signs regarding the spread here, including the number of new cases declining over the past week. But we are still in the red category/ Level 3 of the Ohio Public Health Advisory System and must stay vigilant.  

 New(er) Gov. DeWine Orders  

Mass gatherings in Ohio remain limited to 10 people. Find more information here.  

Ohio bars and restaurants will have to stop selling drinks at 10pm.   

Ohio Mask Order  

A statewide mask mandate is now in effect for citizens living in all 88 Ohio counties. Masks continue to be required for all frontline staff while at work.   

Find more information here.  

Ohio Travel Advisory 

Those entering Ohio after travel to states reporting positive testing rates of 15 percent or higher for COVID-19 are advised to self-quarantine for 14 days. The list of states will be updated every week on Wednesday here. Currently, affected states are: 

• Mississippi  
• Arizona 
• Florida 
• Alabama 
• Idaho 
• Kansas 
• South Carolina 

We are assessing on a case-by-case basis the steps that may be needed, including quarantine or testing, to ensure a safe return to work if an employee travels.  

The Ohio Department of Health is providing the following pop-up testing sites this weekend. More information is available here.   

July 31 

9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. 

Santa Maria Holy Family Church 

3006 Eighth St W 

Cincinnati, OH 45229 

Additional Updates as of July 24, 2020: 

• Updated Day Program Guidance: The Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities (DODD) has released updated guidance on facility-based day programs. The department is no longer requiring separate entrances/exits and bathrooms for different groups but is strongly recommending it. Other mandatory practices and best practices can be found here. The program  must  still be certified by the county and state to reopen, maintain social distancing and allow no more than 10  people  including staff,  among other requirements. The decision for someone to return to a day program will be made on an individual basis after completing a  required  risk assessment.   

• • The risk assessment will involve LADD, the day program,  your loved one, their  guardian and SSA.  This assessment takes into account all risks including the individual’s health, living situation, housemates and transportation.  

• Employee Testing: In addition to testing new employees, employees experiencing symptoms and employees with direct and indirect exposures, frontline employees have also requested ongoing testing options. Our COVID-19 Task Force has taken this request seriously, developing a plan that is as comprehensive as possible while taking into account the availability of tests and laboratory capabilities.  

• • We have identified nearly 70 staff members for monthly testing beginning in mid-July. These staff members were identified based on two factors:  
    • Number of people supported by LADD that the staff member has direct contact with. 
    • Health status/risk factors of the people the staff member supports.  

• • The testing will be conducted by LADD’s registered nurse in a drive-thru capacity. We will utilize antibody tests as our first layer of testing. While there are limits to antibody testing, it offers additional information and a layer of testing that we have not had access to previously.  Antibody tests will not be used as the sole basis to diagnose a COVID-19 infection, but if certain antibodies test positive, we will move forward with a swab test. While we will inform our entire community of a positive case, identities will remain confidential.  
  • This, as you know, continues to be a fluid situation and we will continue working to receive additional resources and testing capacity.  

• LADD Live Well: Our new virtual wellness program in collaboration with Special Olympics Hamilton County will now take place from 4-5 p.m. on Fridays only.  

• • Zoom link: https://laddinc.zoom.us/j/97017274880 
  • There is a waiting room and the host will need to let you in. Please contact LADD staff at development@laddinc.org to advise if you have any technical issues. 

• Mitigating Indirect Exposures: As the state and nation continue to reopen, we expect to see more “indirect exposure” situations among many Ohioans, including our frontline employees. Indirect exposure in this case means a DSP was in contact with someone who came into contact with someone else who was confirmed with COVID-19.  

• • Out of an abundance of caution, we will take the following steps if a LADD DSP reports to us an indirect exposure:  

• • • We will remove the employee from the schedule. If they do not have PTO, we will work with them to continue to be paid.    
    • We will require COVID-19 testing or a quarantine for 14 days (unless the person with direct exposure that is in contact with the employee received a negative test).  
    • We will conduct an additional deep cleaning of the residence. 
    • We will not add the employee back to the schedule until 14 days pass with no symptoms; they receive a negative test result; or the person with the direct exposure that had contact with the employee receives a negative test.

• •  
  • In a case where a DSP reports symptoms or a direct exposure to someone confirmed with COVID-19: 
  •  

• • • We will remove them from the schedule.  
    • We will require them to be tested. 
    • We will notify the families of individuals who work with that DSP.
    • We will not add them back to the schedule until they receive a negative result. 
    • We will conduct an additional deep cleaning of the residence. 

• • These procedures are subject to change as the situation around COVID-19 and state and local guidance remains fluid. We will notify you of any changes. 
  • All families and staff members will be informed of a positive case. 

• Geier and Find-A-Way Guidance: Geier and Find-A-Way Apartments are subsidized by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and therefore operate under different federal guidelines than do our other programs. Currently, we are encouraging family to not enter residences and instead visit outdoors while practicing social distancing and wearing masks. If anyone does enter the building, such as another provider, they are required to wear a mask, sign-in and wash their hands upon entering the lobby.  

• • We are encouraging small groups of residents to meet outside with social distancing and mask wearing. We are also supporting a new gardening area and outdoor movies on the lawn where people can maintain social distance. 
  • We are encouraging any residents returning to FAW/Geier to be tested before returning. If a returning resident does not receive a test, we will: 

• • Ask them to self-quarantine for seven days 
  • Check on their temperature and symptoms each day 
  • Strongly encourage them to stay away from others until cleared 
  • We continue to uphold these safety policies: 

• • • Only one person in the elevator (except when support is needed) 
    • Only two people in the laundry room at any time 
    • Community room is closed to public
    • No congregating in the lobby
    • Performing well-check calls daily with all FAW and Geier residents
    • Robust cleaning schedule still in effect 

• LADD’s Phased Reopening: We are currently in Phase 2 of our reopening with outdoor socially distanced family visits, new transportation protocols and outdoor outings. Find more information in the Phased Reopening Plan. 

• • Family visits require: 

• • • An outdoor setting  
    • All individuals maintaining 6 feet social distancing 
    • All individuals wearing masks while visiting
    • Scheduling ahead of time  
  • Safe outdoor outings: We are requiring outings facilitated by staff to meet the following criteria: 
    • Outdoors: Must be outside; no  outings to indoor facilities  unless essential, such as a doctor’s  appointment.  
    • Social distancing: Must maintain  6 feet from others.  
    • Reservations: If it is not a park, but some other  organized  outdoor activity, such as the zoo or a  restaurant with outdoor seating,  the location must require reservations. This helps ensure these  locations are not overcrowded and social distancing can be maintained.  
    • No long lines/crowds: Even if  the  activity  is outside and requires reservations,  but  features  long lines  or is crowded in general  (such as  amusement parks  or fairs),  these settings  increase the  risk of virus  exposure and must be avoided.  

• • • Masks:  Masks  must  still be worn unless physically impossible or a threat to someone’s health and  safety.  

• Hospital guidance: We are aware of a few cases where DSPs and families have been denied entry to support people with disabilities if they are admitted to a hospital. Rules and regulations vary between hospitals and even floors of the same hospital. As such, we have developed a protocol in which we involve the county to work with the hospital if a LADD DSP encounters a denial of entry. DODD’s guidance for hospitals is available here and has also been distributed to LADD staff.  

• Community Connections (CCP) safely reopening: LADD’s day programs have begun reopening with guidance from Hamilton County Developmental Disabilities Services. Requirements include reduced group sizes, preferably people living together, risk assessments and approval from any guardian (CCP staff coordinate the paperwork), and vehicle cleaning and seating protocols. Groups, if they go somewhere, will be outside, practice social distancing with the general public and wear masks. CCP is also offering a virtual day program option. 

• Envision Therapy: We are aware Envision Therapy Assistants are beginning to schedule home visits with interested clients. We have not yet finalized a protocol for anyone at LADD to receive home therapy visits and will continue with teletherapy until we have a protocol in place.  

• Resident Testing: We continue to work tirelessly to expand our access to testing. The Cincinnati Health Department has assured us their support and access to tests should we experience any cases in congregate living settings. The state recently tested employees and individuals served at the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities’ eight developmental centers. LADD is working hard to move up on the state’s list of priority testing.  

• Testing for residents returning to LADD: We are asking that anyone who receives residential services from LADD and is currently living with family members but wishes to return to their LADD residence to undergo testing. Procedure to obtain testing prior to returning: 

• • Family to contact PCP for person who receives LADD services and request testing before returning to a group living setting for people with developmental disabilities.  
  • Submit negative test result to LADD Program Staff. 
  • If unable to obtain testing, work with LADD Program Staff on alternative testing options. 

• Masks: We have provided each frontline employee three cloth masks and two masks to each person supported by LADD. We continue to monitor all sanitization supplies and replenish them as needed.  

• Your loved one returning to work: Your loved one may soon return to work as many businesses begin reopening. Supported Employment will include the employee, the employee’s family and the employer in the discussion of returning to work, safety requirements at work and additional coaching needs related to safety protocols. Please contact Laura Grimes at lgrimes@laddinc.org with any questions. 

• Prevention measures: We continue to require temperature and symptom checks by all frontline staff before reporting to work; rigorous handwashing throughout the day; mask wearing while at work; social distancing when possible; disinfecting commonly touched surfaces throughout the day; using foggers to disinfect vehicles before outings; and requiring employees to stay home if they are sick or a member of their household is sick.  

Please email any questions or concerns to staysafe@laddinc.org and visit laddinc.org/covid-19-announcement for past updates. 

Sincerely,  

Susan Brownknight  

CEO, LADD  

To LADD families and loved ones,    

Currently,  there are no confirmed positive cases of COVID-19 at LADD. We informed you on Tuesday of a previous positive case that went  unreported  until this week, due to a lab error.  Thus far, LADD has had two confirmed cases of COVID-19, both staff and both fully recovered. Many staff are also currently receiving monthly antibody testing and, as needed and in coordination with the Cincinnati Health Department, swab tests.

Now, perhaps more than ever as cases continue to climb, we must keep our guard up. Dr. Robert Redfield, director of the CDC, recently said that if all of us would wear a mask for the next four to six weeks, “we could drive this epidemic to the ground.” Gov. DeWine has followed that advice with a statewide mask order as well as a travel advisory.  

Here at LADD, we continue with our safe, outdoor outings and family visits, but are reminding you, our staff and your loved ones that masks and social distancing measures are critical to these efforts. Thank you for your courage and commitment as we work together to emerge stronger and more resilient.  

What’s new in this report (scroll down for detail):  Ohio’s Mask Mandate; Ohio’s Travel Advisory; pop-up testing site locations for the week of July 26th. 

Ohio Mask Order  

A statewide mask mandate is now in effect for citizens living in all 88 Ohio counties.  

Masks continue to be required for all frontline staff while at work.  

Per the order,  masks must be worn in the following public spaces: 

• Indoors, in spaces that are not residences.  
• Outdoors, but unable to maintain six-foot social distance from people who are not household members. 
• Waiting for, riding, driving, or operating public transportation, such as a taxi, a car service, or a private car used for ride-sharing. 

The order only requires those 10 years old or older to wear a mask. Additional exclusions include:  

• Those with a medical condition or a disability or those communicating with someone with a disability; 
• Those who are actively exercising or playing sports; 
• Those who are officiants at religious services; 

• Those who are actively involved in public safety; or 
• Those who are actively eating or drinking. 

While those with a disability are excluded from this order, we are encouraging people supported by LADD to wear their mask.   

Ohio Travel Advisory

Governor DeWine announced Wednesday a  travel advisory  for all individuals coming into Ohio from states reporting positive COVID-19 testing rates of 15 percent or higher.  Those traveling from one of the following states should self-quarantine for 14 days at home or in a hotel. 

• Alabama 
• Arizona 
• Florida 
• Georgia 
• Idaho 
• Mississippi 
• Nevada 
• South Carolina 
• Texas 

The self-quarantine recommendation applies to those who live in Ohio and to people who are traveling into Ohio from any of these states. We are asking managers to assess a case-by-case basis the steps that may be needed, including quarantine or testing, to ensure a safe return to work if an employee travels.   

The Ohio Department of Health is providing the following pop-up testing sites this weekend. More information is available here.   

July 25 
Corinthian Baptist Church 
1920 Tennessee Ave 
9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. 

July 26 
Corinthian Baptist Church 
1920 Tennessee Ave 
9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. 

Additional Updates as of July 24, 2020: 

• Updated Day Program Guidance: The Department of Developmental Disabilities has released updated guidance on facility-based day programs. The department is no longer requiring separate entrances/exits and bathrooms for different groups but is strongly recommending it. Other mandatory practices and best practices can be found here. The program  must  still be certified by the county and state to reopen, maintain social distancing and allow no more than 10  people  including staff,  among other requirements. The decision for someone to return to a day program will be made on an individual basis after completing a  required  risk assessment.   

• • The risk assessment will involve LADD, the day program,  your loved one, their  guardian and SSA.  This assessment takes into account all risks including the individual’s health, living situation, housemates and transportation.  

• Celebrating Disability Pride at the Drive-In: Celebrating Disability Pride and 30 years of the ADA, the OTR International Film Festival is showing The Peanut Butter Falcon at the Hollywood Drive-In on July 25. The screening is part of the Hollywood Drive-In’s Film Festival Weekend. Get tickets and learn more here.  

• • Tickets are $20 per car and spots are limited! We have shared this with LADD staff to share with the people they support. 
  • If people supported by LADD attend with staff, our transportation and mask policies must be followed. The Hollywood Drive-In is following CDC guidelines, including helpers wearing masks, cars parked six feet apart and a touchless check-in. 

• Employee Testing: In addition to testing new employees, employees experiencing symptoms and employees with direct and indirect exposures, frontline employees have also requested ongoing testing options. Our COVID-19 Task Force has taken this request seriously, developing a plan that is as comprehensive as possible while taking into account the availability of tests and laboratory capabilities.  

• • We have identified nearly 70 staff members for monthly testing beginning in mid-July. These staff members were identified based on two factors:  
    • Number of people supported by LADD that the staff member has direct contact with. 
    • Health status/risk factors of the people the staff member supports.  

• • The testing will be conducted by LADD’s registered nurse in a drive-thru capacity. We will utilize antibody tests as our first layer of testing. While there are limits to antibody testing, it offers additional information and a layer of testing that we have not had access to previously.  Antibody tests will not be used as the sole basis to diagnose a COVID-19 infection, but if certain antibodies test positive, we will move forward with a swab test. While we will inform our entire community of a positive case, identities will remain confidential.  
  • This, as you know, continues to be a fluid situation and we will continue working to receive additional resources and testing capacity.  

• LADD Live Well: Our new virtual wellness program in collaboration with Special Olympics Hamilton County will now take place from 4-5 p.m. on Fridays only.  

• • Zoom link: https://laddinc.zoom.us/j/97017274880 
  • There is a waiting room and the host will need to let you in. Please contact LADD staff at development@laddinc.org to advise if you have any technical issues. 

• Mitigating Indirect Exposures: As the state and nation continue to reopen, we expect to see more “indirect exposure” situations among many Ohioans, including our frontline employees. Indirect exposure in this case means a DSP was in contact with someone who came into contact with someone else who was confirmed with COVID-19.  

• • Out of an abundance of caution, we will take the following steps if a LADD DSP reports to us an indirect exposure:  

• • • We will remove the employee from the schedule. If they do not have PTO, we will work with them to continue to be paid.    
    • We will require COVID-19 testing or a quarantine for 14 days (unless the person with direct exposure that is in contact with the employee received a negative test).  
    • We will conduct an additional deep cleaning of the residence. 
    • We will not add the employee back to the schedule until 14 days pass with no symptoms; they receive a negative test result; or the person with the direct exposure that had contact with the employee receives a negative test.

• •  
  • In a case where a DSP reports symptoms or a direct exposure to someone confirmed with COVID-19: 
  •  

• • • We will remove them from the schedule.  
    • We will require them to be tested. 
    • We will notify the families of individuals who work with that DSP.
    • We will not add them back to the schedule until they receive a negative result. 
    • We will conduct an additional deep cleaning of the residence. 

• • These procedures are subject to change as the situation around COVID-19 and state and local guidance remains fluid. We will notify you of any changes. 
  • All families and staff members will be informed of a positive case. 

• Geier and Find-A-Way Guidance: Geier and Find-A-Way Apartments are subsidized by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and therefore operate under different federal guidelines than do our other programs. Currently, we are encouraging family to not enter residences and instead visit outdoors while practicing social distancing and wearing masks. If anyone does enter the building, such as another provider, they are required to wear a mask, sign-in and wash their hands upon entering the lobby.  

• • We are encouraging small groups of residents to meet outside with social distancing and mask wearing. We are also supporting a new gardening area and outdoor movies on the lawn where people can maintain social distance. 
  • We are encouraging any residents returning to FAW/Geier to be tested before returning. If a returning resident does not receive a test, we will: 

• • Ask them to self-quarantine for seven days 
  • Check on their temperature and symptoms each day 
  • Strongly encourage them to stay away from others until cleared 
  • We continue to uphold these safety policies: 

• • • Only one person in the elevator (except when support is needed) 
    • Only two people in the laundry room at any time 
    • Community room is closed to public
    • No congregating in the lobby
    • Performing well-check calls daily with all FAW and Geier residents
    • Robust cleaning schedule still in effect 

• LADD’s Phased Reopening: We are currently in Phase 2 of our reopening with outdoor socially distanced family visits, new transportation protocols and outdoor outings. Find more information in the Phased Reopening Plan. 

• • Family visits require: 

• • • An outdoor setting  
    • All individuals maintaining 6 feet social distancing 
    • All individuals wearing masks while visiting
    • Scheduling ahead of time  
  • Safe outdoor outings: We are requiring outings facilitated by staff to meet the following criteria: 
    • Outdoors: Must be outside; no  outings to indoor facilities  unless essential, such as a doctor’s  appointment.  
    • Social distancing: Must maintain  6 feet from others.  
    • Reservations: If it is not a park, but some other  organized  outdoor activity, such as the zoo or a  restaurant with outdoor seating,  the location must require reservations. This helps ensure these  locations are not overcrowded and social distancing can be maintained.  
    • No long lines/crowds: Even if  the  activity  is outside and requires reservations,  but  features  long lines  or is crowded in general  (such as  amusement parks  or fairs),  these settings  increase the  risk of virus  exposure and must be avoided.  

• • • Masks:  Masks  must  still be worn unless physically impossible or a threat to someone’s health and  safety.  

• Hospital guidance: We are aware of a few cases where DSPs and families have been denied entry to support people with disabilities if they are admitted to a hospital. Rules and regulations vary between hospitals and even floors of the same hospital. As such, we have developed a protocol in which we involve the county to work with the hospital if a LADD DSP encounters a denial of entry. DODD’s guidance for hospitals is available here and has also been distributed to LADD staff.  

• Community Connections (CCP) safely reopening: LADD’s day programs have begun reopening with guidance from Hamilton County Developmental Disabilities Services. Requirements include reduced group sizes, preferably people living together, risk assessments and approval from any guardian (CCP staff coordinate the paperwork), and vehicle cleaning and seating protocols. Groups, if they go somewhere, will be outside, practice social distancing with the general public and wear masks. CCP is also offering a virtual day program option. 

• Envision Therapy: We are aware Envision Therapy Assistants are beginning to schedule home visits with interested clients. We have not yet finalized a protocol for anyone at LADD to receive home therapy visits and will continue with teletherapy until we have a protocol in place.  

• Resident Testing: We continue to work tirelessly to expand our access to testing. The Cincinnati Health Department has assured us their support and access to tests should we experience any cases in congregate living settings. The state recently tested employees and individuals served at the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities’ eight developmental centers. LADD is working hard to move up on the state’s list of priority testing.  

• Testing for residents returning to LADD: We are asking that anyone who receives residential services from LADD and is currently living with family members but wishes to return to their LADD residence to undergo testing. Procedure to obtain testing prior to returning: 

• • Family to contact PCP for person who receives LADD services and request testing before returning to a group living setting for people with developmental disabilities.  
  • Submit negative test result to LADD Program Staff. 
  • If unable to obtain testing, work with LADD Program Staff on alternative testing options. 

• Masks: We have provided each frontline employee three cloth masks and two masks to each person supported by LADD. We continue to monitor all sanitization supplies and replenish them as needed.  

• Your loved one returning to work: Your loved one may soon return to work as many businesses begin reopening. Supported Employment will include the employee, the employee’s family and the employer in the discussion of returning to work, safety requirements at work and additional coaching needs related to safety protocols. Please contact Laura Grimes at lgrimes@laddinc.org with any questions. 

• Prevention measures: We continue to require temperature and symptom checks by all frontline staff before reporting to work; rigorous handwashing throughout the day; mask wearing while at work; social distancing when possible; disinfecting commonly touched surfaces throughout the day; using foggers to disinfect vehicles before outings; and requiring employees to stay home if they are sick or a member of their household is sick.  

Please email any questions or concerns to staysafe@laddinc.org and visit laddinc.org/covid-19-announcement for past updates. 

Sincerely,  

Susan Brownknight  

CEO, LADD  

• Cuyahoga County 
• Trumbull County 
• Huron County 
• Franklin County 
• Montgomery County 
• Butler County 

• Indoors, in spaces that are not residences.  
• Outdoors, where maintaining six feet distance from others is challenging. 
• While waiting for, driving, riding public transportation and rideshare services. 

To LADD families and loved ones,    

Currently, there is one positive case of COVID-19 at LADD. We are working with the administrative employee – who had no contact with people supported by LADD – to ensure they are supported through this time and join everyone in wishing them a quick recovery.   

Administrative employees who had close contact with the individual have tested negative for COVID-19. Following those results and multiple cleanings, the main office building reopened this week to a select few employees allowed to work in the building.  

As scary as these situations are, they demonstrate how important our protocols are and how the individual actions we each take make a difference. The diligence and teamwork exhibited by every member of the LADD community, including family members, is nothing short of incredible – it is why we have prevented an outbreak thus far. We’re reminding everyone this holiday weekend: if you’re out, wear a mask. It’s a simple solution to help protect yourself, family, friends and everyone at LADD. Thank you for continuing to work with us, especially as cases in Hamilton County continue rising, to ensure the health and safety of your loved ones.  

I hope you have a safe and healthy Fourth of July weekend. 

Hamilton County’s Rise in Cases and Health Orders Extended  

As Hamilton County is currently experiencing a sharp rise in COVID-19 cases, including positive cases across the developmental disability community, health orders, including a 10-person limit on gatherings, have been extended through July 7. Find more information here. Gov. DeWine also announced Thursday that Hamilton County is in Level 3, meaning very high exposure and spread, of the new Ohio Public Health Advisory Alert System. Guidance for Level 3 calls for limiting activities as much as possible and following all current health orders.  

We are reminding our DSPs to remain vigilant in their personal and professional lives by:  

• Utilizing telehealth when possible 
• Avoiding close contact with anyone who is sick 
• Staying home if the employee or a member of their household is sick 
• Taking their temperature before work 

• Continuing a rigorous cleaning schedule and disinfecting commonly touched objects 
• Staying six feet away from others and wearing a mask  
• Monitoring for symptoms or changes in behavior of individuals they support 

 Following the Governor’s recommendation, we have also asked LADD staff living in three zip codes – 45231, 45240, 45238 – to be tested. Staff living in these zip codes who have been tested thus far have reported negative tests. Read the Governor’s full update here.  

Additional Updates as of July 2, 2020: 

• As of Thursday, July, 2, the state of Ohio is reporting 52,865 total cases of COVID-19, with 5,224 confirmed cases in Hamilton County. 

• Employee Testing: In addition to testing new employees, employees experiencing symptoms and employees with direct and indirect exposures, frontline employees have also requested ongoing testing options. Our COVID-19 Task Force has taken this request seriously, developing a plan that is as comprehensive as possible while taking into account the availability of tests and laboratory capabilities.  

• • We have identified nearly 70 staff members for monthly testing beginning in mid-July. These staff members were identified based on two factors:  

1. 1. • Number of people supported by LADD that the staff member has direct contact with. 

1. 1. • Health status/risk factors of the people the staff member supports.  

• • The testing will be conducted by LADD’s registered nurse in a drive-thru capacity. We will utilize FDA-approved antibody tests as our first layer of testing. If results from that test show certain antibodies as positive, the next step will be a swab test. While we will inform our entire community of a positive case, identities will remain confidential.  

• • This, as you know, continues to be a fluid situation and we will continue working to receive additional resources and testing capacity.  

• LADD Live Well: A new virtual program in collaboration with Special Olympics Hamilton County will take place on Mondays and Fridays (excluding Friday, July 3) 4-5 p.m. on Zoom. The program will feature different partners and collaborators across our community promoting wellness and hosting different activities and discussions. Monday, June 29, will be a brainstorming session for future events. 

• • Zoom link: https://laddinc.zoom.us/j/97017274880  
  • There is a waiting room and the host will need to let you in. Please contact LADD staff at development@laddinc.org to advise if you have any technical issues. 

• Mitigating Indirect Exposures: As the state and nation continue to reopen, we expect to see more “indirect exposure” situations among many Ohioans, including our frontline employees. Indirect exposure in this case means a DSP was in contact with someone who came into contact with someone else who was confirmed with COVID-19.  

• • Out of an abundance of caution, we will take the following steps if a LADD DSP reports to us an indirect exposure:  

• • • We will remove the employee from the schedule. If they do not have PTO, we will work with them to continue to be paid.    
    • We will require COVID-19 testing or a quarantine for 14 days (unless the person with direct exposure that is in contact with the employee received a negative test).  

• • • We will conduct an additional deep cleaning of the residence. 
    • We will not add the employee back to the schedule until 14 days pass with no symptoms; they receive a negative test result; or the person with the direct exposure that had contact with the employee receives a negative test.  

• • In a case where a DSP reports symptoms or a direct exposure to someone confirmed with COVID-19: 

• • • We will remove them from the schedule.  
    • We will require them to be tested. 

• • • We will notify the families of individuals who work with that DSP. 
    • We will not add them back to the schedule until they receive a negative result.  
    • We will conduct an additional deep cleaning of the residence. 

• • These procedures are subject to change as the situation around COVID-19 and state and local guidance remains fluid. We will notify you of any changes. 
  • All families and staff members will be informed of a positive case. 

• Geier and Find-A-Way Guidance: Geier and Find-A-Way Apartments are subsidized by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and therefore operate under different federal guidelines than do our other programs. Currently, we are encouraging family to not enter residences and instead visit outdoors while practicing social distancing and wearing masks. If anyone does enter the building, such as another provider, they are required to wear a mask, sign-in and wash their hands upon entering the lobby.  

• • We are encouraging small groups of residents to meet outside with social distancing and mask wearing. We are also supporting a new gardening area and outdoor movies on the lawn where people can maintain social distance. 
  • We are encouraging any residents returning to FAW/Geier to be tested before returning. If a returning resident does not receive a test, we will: 

• • • Ask them to self-quarantine for seven days 

• • • Check on their temperature and symptoms each day 
    • Strongly encourage them to stay away from others until cleared 

• • We continue to uphold these safety policies: 

• • • Only one person in the elevator (except when support is needed) 
    • Only two people in the laundry room at any time 

• • • Community room is closed to public  

• • No congregating in the lobby  
  • Performing well-check calls daily with all FAW and Geier residents 
  • Robust cleaning schedule still in effect 

• LADD’s Phased Reopening: We are currently in Phase 2 of our reopening with outdoor socially distanced family visits, new transportation protocols and outdoor outings. Find more information in the Phased Reopening Plan. 

• • Family visits require: 

• • • An outdoor setting  

• • • All individuals maintaining 6 feet social distancing 
    • All individuals wearing masks while visiting 
    • Scheduling ahead of time