Focused on Elevating the Standards of Funeral Service and Public Welfare through Education and Training for Embalmers
Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)
The AGEG Board of Directors encourage all funeral service professionals to follow Federal and State orders, CDC guidance, and best practices. It is important to review guidance and information so you may continue to safely serve your families and community.
As the situation is rapidly changing, so does the guidance and information about COVID-19. As we closely monitor federal, state, and other agencies for new or revised information and guidance, AGEG members are updated by email and this page is updated. While we do our best to post guidance and information in real time, the links will take you directly to the individual websites to ensure the most accurate and timely information is accessible.
May COVID-19 Guidance and Information
For additional information and guidance, visit the drop down windows.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
- Your COVID-19 Vaccination - May 13, 2021 - CLICK HERE
- Interim Public Health Recommendations for Fully Vaccinated People - May 13, 2021 - CLICK HERE
- When You’ve Been Fully Vaccinated - May 13, 2021 - CLICK HERE
- Choosing Safer Activities - May 13, 2021 - CLICK HERE
- People with Certain Medical Conditions - May 13, 2021 - CLICK HERE
- People with Disabilities - May 13, 2021 - CLICK HERE
- COVID-19 Vaccines for Children and Teens - May 12, 2021 - CLICK HERE
- About COVID-19 Vaccines - May 12, 2021 - CLICK HERE
- Key Things to Know About COVID-19 Vaccines - May 12, 2021 - CLICK HERE
- COVID-19 Vaccine Information for Specific Groups - May 12, 2021 - CLICK HERE
- Information about the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine - May 12, 2021 - CLICK HERE
- Frequently Asked Questions about COVID-19 Vaccination - May 12, 2021 - CLICK HERE
- Vaccines for COVID-19 - May 12, 2021 - CLICK HERE
- Running Essential Errands - May 12, 2021 - CLICK HERE
- Information About Johnson & Johnson’s Janssen COVID-19 Vaccine - May 11, 2021 - CLICK HERE
- How COVID-19 Spreads - May 10, 2021 - CLICK HERE
- How to Wear Masks - May 07, 2021 - CLICK HERE
- CDC Recommends Use of Johnson & Johnson’s Janssen COVID-19 Vaccine Resume - May 06, 2021 - CLICK HERE
- Large Gatherings - May 06, 2021 - CLICK HERE
- Small Gatherings - May 06, 2021 - CLICK HERE
- Importance of COVID-19 Vaccination for Essential Workers - May 06, 2021 - CLICK HERE
- Returning to Work - May 05, 2021 - CLICK HERE
- Georgia Department of Public Health
- NOTICE: CDC New Mask Guidance for People Fully Vaccinated - Fully vaccinated people can resume activities without wearing masks or physically distancing, except where required by federal, state, local, tribal, or territorial laws, rules, and regulations, including local business and workplace guidance. - The COVID-19 Funeral and Mortuary Science Guidance may be viewed below.
- Georgia eligibility is open for everyone 12 years of age and older for the COVID vaccine. - More information may be found below under COVID-19 Vaccines.
FEMA Funeral Assistance for COVID-19 Related Deaths
Families will be able to begin applying for assistance April 12 2021 through their dedicated call center.
Under the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2021 and the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, Congress authorized FEMA to provide financial assistance to individuals who incurred COVID-19-related funeral expenses after January 20, 2020. FEMA has issued its final policy, which includes details such as eligibility, documentation criteria, and the application process.
More information may be found in our NEW FEMA COVID-19 Funeral Assistance section, CLICK HERE, including an updated Frequenty Asked Questions section.
COVID-19 Funeral and Mortuary Science Guidance
The Georgia Department of Public Health has updated their guidance for Funeral Service. It is important to review the entire guidance, including infection control, general guidance, and additional resources. The updated DPH guidance may be viewed by opening the file to the right. We encourage you to print it for your staff. We have received numerous inquiries about the general guidance and have included it below for your quick reference.
General Guidance for Funerals
- Attendees should stay 6 feet away from others, wear cloth face coverings, wash/sanitize hands frequently, and avoid direct contact like handshakes, hugging, and kissing at the service or funeral regardless of if a person is fully vaccinated* for COVID-19 or not to protect others who are not vaccinated.
- There is currently no known risk associated with being in the same room at a funeral or visitation service with the body of someone who has died of COVID-19. However, people should consider not touching the body of someone who has died of COVID-19.
- People who were in recent contact with the deceased and may have been exposed to the virus that causes COVID-19 should not attend unless they have been fully vaccinated* prior to their exposure.
- People who are part of an at-risk group (people who are older or have severe underlying health conditions), should stay home unless they are fully vaccinated* for COVID-19. People in this group that are vaccinated should still social distance and wear face coverings.
- People who feel sick should stay home.
- Funeral homes should:
- Consider offering livestreaming as an option for these services/viewings;
- Discourage families from providing food or beverages;
- Supply tissues and alcohol-based hand rubs for the families to use; and
- Stock an adequate supply of soap and paper towels in the restrooms.
Ultimately, funeral homes should determine how to best balance this guidance with the needs of their families. Each funeral home should develop a plan to manage challenges presented by the current situation. COVID-19 is a novel illness, and health officials are still learning more about the disease as it continues to spread in our communities. Funeral home managers should stay up to date regarding current COVID-19 recommendations to protect their staff and families of the deceased.
*Fully vaccinated for COVID-19 means that 14 days have passed since an individual has received their second COVID-19 vaccine in a two dose COVID-19 vaccine series or their first vaccine in a one dose COVID-19 vaccine series.
COVID-19 Funeral and Mortuary Science Guidance
Updated April 12, 2021
Click on the graphic on the left to download the file.
COVID-19 Vaccines
Georgia eligibility is open for everyone 12 years of age and older for the COVID vaccine.
Note: Pfizer is the only COVID vaccine currently approved for children aged 12 through 17.
Register for a COVID Vaccine
Georgia Vaccine Locator - CLICK HERE
Health Department Scheduling - CLICK HERE
Vaccine Finder - CLICK HERE
Children's Healthcare of Atlanta - CLICK HERE
Health Department Vaccine
Scheduling Resource Line
- (888) 457-0186
- Monday – Friday 8 AM – 8 PM ET
- Saturday – Sunday 8 AM – 5 PM ET
COVID-19 Resources for People with Disabilities
Georgia Mass Vaccination Sites
Announcements:
As of Monday, April 26, 2021, GEMA/HS-managed Mass Vaccination Sites are no longer accepting 1st dose appointments and only 2nd dose appointments will be available.
Beginning Monday, May 3, 2021, GEMA/HS-managed Mass Vaccination Sites will offer Johnson and Johnson’s single dose Janssen COVID-19 vaccine to drive-up customers at all sites until they close on Friday, May 21, 2021.
If you are still seeking your 1st dose of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine, then please visit:
Homebound COVID-19 Vaccinations
Georgia residents who are currently homebound due to an ongoing physical or mental disability and are unable to travel to a COVID-19 vaccination site can request to receive vaccination at their home.
Please email HVS@dph.ga.gov or call (888) 572-0112 with the following information for the person who requires at home vaccination:
- Name
- Date of birth
- Address
- City
- County
- Contact phone number
COVID-19 Vaccine General FAQ
This information is based on currently available evidence, resources, information, emergency use authorization and expert opinion and is subject to change. As additional evidence regarding the use of COVID-19 vaccine for individuals emerges, it will be necessary to modify this content.
Governor Kemp Announces State Mass Vaccination Sites Shift to Johnson and Johnson Vaccine, Pfizer 2nd Doses
APRIL 26, 2021- Atlanta, GA – Today, the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency (GEMA/HS), the Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH), and the Governor's Office announced that the eight state-operated mass vaccination sites will shift to providing single-dose Johnson and Johnson vaccine and Pfizer second doses through May 21. First doses of the Pfizer vaccine will not be administered at these sites after April 30.
"As supply and availability of the COVID-19 vaccines has dramatically increased across the state, far more Georgians are now able to easily access the vaccine at their local pharmacy, grocery store, or doctor's office," said GEMA/HS Director Chris Stallings. "With over 300,000 doses administered at the state sites over the last few months, our highly successful state-operated sites have experienced a notable decrease in demand over the last two weeks. This transition to the Johnson and Johnson single-dose vaccine for the next month allows us to complete the full vaccination cycle for Georgians who received their first Pfizer vaccination at our sites, continue providing COVID-19 vaccination to Georgians who wish to use our sites, and deploy Pfizer first doses previously allocated to GEMA/HS to other local providers across Georgia."
"I greatly appreciate the hard work and dedication of our GEMA/HS team over the last few months in getting the life-saving vaccine administered quickly and efficiently in all parts of our state," said Governor Kemp. "As the vaccine becomes available to more Georgians in their local communities, it is now the state's job to work closely with local providers, private partners, public health districts, and trusted community leaders to encourage more Georgians to get vaccinated. These highly-effective vaccines are our ticket back to normal, and the state stands ready to assist in getting more shots in arms moving forward."
"Our team will now work closely with local providers, community leaders, nonprofits, businesses, local public health offices, and others to utilize those Pfizer first doses quickly and efficiently at the community level," said Dr. Toomey, Commissioner of Georgia DPH. "I continue to urge all Georgians to sign up to get their shot as soon as possible to ensure we protect ourselves, our loved ones, and our neighbors from COVID-19."
The Department of Public Health announced on Friday the state would follow ACIP and CDC recommendations in resuming administration of the Johnson and Johnson vaccine.
To schedule a vaccine appointment at a local public health department, please visit https://dph.georgia.gov/covid-vaccine.
To schedule a vaccine appointment or find a state-operated mass vaccination site available for walk-up vaccinations, please visit myvaccinegeorgia.gov.
Georgia Department of Public Health
DPH Follows FDA CDC Guidance Will Resume J&J Vaccination - Timeline to be Determined
APRIL 26, 2021 - Atlanta – Following a thorough safety review, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the CDC and ACIP have determined that the recommended pause regarding the use of the J&J COVID vaccine in the U.S. should be lifted.
The Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) will again offer J&J vaccine to Georgians aged 18 and older. Details on when administration of the vaccine will begin again in Georgia will be forthcoming, pending communication with providers.
The federal agencies advised that a warning should be added to the vaccine about the potential for very rare, but severe blood clots associated with the J&J vaccine. In particular, women under the age of 50 should be made of aware of the increased risk of thrombosis and thrombocytopenia syndrome and may choose to receive another vaccine.
At the time J&J vaccine administration was paused, more than 124,000 doses of J&J vaccine had been safely administered in Georgia. Approximately 211,000 doses are currently in inventory statewide.
Vaccination remains one of our best tools for stopping the spread of COVID-19, along with basic prevention measures – wearing a mask, distancing from others, avoiding large gatherings, and washing your hands frequently.
DPH Press Release
Click on the graphic on the left to download the file.
Georgia COVID-19 Vaccine Plan
March 4, 2021
Click on the graphic on the left to download the file.
COVID-19 vaccines have passed rigorous reviews and are highly effective.
Scientists had a significant head start developing the COVID-19 vaccines. COVID-19 is very similar to other viruses, which already have vaccines.
Testing was thorough and successful. More than 70,000 people participated in clinical trials for the two vaccines to see if they are safe and effective. To date, the vaccines are nearly 95% effective in preventing COVID-19.
There is no COVID-19 virus in the vaccine. The vaccine imitates the infection so that our bodies create antibody defenses to fight off COVID-19.
Side effects are mild, temporary, and normal signs that your body is building protection. You may experience pain and swelling in the arm of the injection. Throughout the rest of your body, you may experience fever, chills, tiredness, and headaches.
Are Vaccines Safe?
The U.S. vaccine safety system ensures that all vaccines are as safe as possible. Learn more about
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
Johnson & Johnson’s Janssen COVID-19 Vaccine: CDC and FDA have recommended that use of Johnson & Johnson’s Janssen (J&J/Janssen) COVID-19 Vaccine resume in the United States, effective April 23, 2021. However, women younger than 50 years old should be aware of the rare risk of blood clots with low platelets after vaccination, and that other COVID-19 vaccines are available where this risk has not been seen. If you received a J&J/Janssen vaccine, here is what you need to know. Read the CDC/FDA statement.
Because the U.S. supply of COVID-19 vaccine is expected to be limited at first, CDC is providing recommendations to federal, state, and local governments about who should be vaccinated first. CDC’s recommendations are based on those from the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), an independent panel of medical and public health experts.
The recommendations were made with these goals in mind:
- Decrease death and serious disease as much as possible.
- Preserve functioning of society.
- Reduce the extra burden COVID-19 is having on people already facing disparities.
While CDC makes recommendations for who should be offered COVID-19 vaccine first, each state has its own plan for deciding who will be vaccinated first and how they can receive vaccines. Please contact your local health department for more information on COVID-19 vaccination in your area.
- CLICK HERE - COVID-19 Vaccine: Helps protect you from getting COVID-19
- Information about COVID-19 Vaccines for People with Allergies - Mar. 25, 2021 - CLICK HERE
- Possible Side Effects After Getting a COVID-19 Vaccine - Mar. 16, 2021 - CLICK HERE
- Essential Workers & Employees: When & How to Get Vaccinated - Mar. 13, 2021 - CLICK HERE
- COVID-19 Vaccination and other Medical Procedures - Mar. 12, 2021 - CLICK HERE
- What to Do if You Have an Allergic Reaction After Getting A COVID-19 Vaccine - Mar. 04, 2021 - CLICK HERE
- EARLY RELEASE: The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices' Interim Recommendation for Use of Janssen COVID-19 Vaccine - United States, February 2021 - Mar. 02, 2021 - CLICK HERE
U.S. Food and Drug Administration
- FDA and CDC Lift Recommended Pause on Johnson & Johnson (Janssen) COVID-19 Vaccine Use Following Thorough Safety Review - Apr. 23, 2021 - CLICK HERE
COVID-19 Testing Information
Visit our 'Georgia Department of Public Health' drop down window below for more information including testing sites, what to do if you're sick or exposed, and what do your test results mean.
COVID-19 Information for Your Health
For information for your health during the COVDI-19 pandemic, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) - CLICK HERE
Click below to open / close the drop down windows
Georgia Board of Funeral Service - CLICK HERE
COVID-19 INFORMATION
The Board strongly encourages licensees to continue to support one another, be mindful of potential exposure, use best practices to prevent infection and help slow the spread of COVID-19, and adhere to the terms of the Governor's Executive Orders to ensure the health, safety and welfare of both licensees and the general public.
Click HERE to see Governor Kemp's most recent Executive Orders relating to COVID-19 and the Public Health State of Emergency.
Click HERE for up to date information and guidance from the Georgia Department of Public Health, including Funeral and Mortuary Science Guidance, which can be found HERE.
Click HERE for up to date information and guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, including information for Funeral Home Workers, which can be found HERE, and Funeral Guidance for Individuals and Families, which can be found HERE.
Click HERE for up to date information and guidance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) on the COVID-19 Funeral Assistance Program.
To report issues of noncompliance with any of the executive orders you should call the state's hotline at 844-442-2681. The hotline can be used for asking about symptoms related to COVID-19, finding out if someone should get tested, reporting possible scams related to COVID-19, and alerting the state about non-compliant businesses.
IMPACT ON TESTING
Pearson VUE resumed full testing on May 1, 2020, though there is limited test center capacity for scheduling to enforce social distancing. For the most up-to-date ICFSEB COVID-19 information click HERE, and for updates from Pearson VUE click HERE.
PSI test centers began reopening on May 1, 2020. Test sites are reopened where city, county, and state jurisdictions will allow, however, as the safety of candidates and PSI’s employees remain a top priority, sites will only be open for scheduling at 50% of their capacity in order to enforce social distancing procedures. PSI has also enacted a number of new policies surrounding enhanced sanitation procedures, allowable personal protective equipment for candidates, and flexible rescheduling. PSI is now mandating that ALL candidates wear face masks at all times while in the test center. If a candidate fails to bring and wear a face mask during the examination, they will be requested to leave the test site. An outline of the steps being taken to ensure candidate and employee safety can be found HERE. It is important to note that due to the backlog of candidates and testing centers operating at reduced capacity, scheduling availability may not be immediate. Situations are arising where candidates need to be rescheduled to ensure procedures are adhered to. When a cancellation must happen, PSI will begin rescheduling candidate appointments by most recently scheduled, prioritizing candidates that have held their appointments the longest. Please check your email and voicemails routinely to review any pertinent exam appointment communication from PSI and avoid unnecessary travel. For questions, PSI can be best reached at 855-744-0314.
Board Office Operations Update
In response to Governor Kemp’s recommendation that state employees work remotely, the Professional Licensing Boards Division has implemented telework options for its staff. Effective March 16th, the Professional Licensing Boards Division will be closed to visitors. Constituents are encouraged to utilize web resources for online transactions and to answer frequently asked questions. For additional information you may contact the call center at 404-424-9966. Staff will be available to provide guidance by email.
Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) - CLICK HERE
COVID-19 Information
- CLICK HERE - Georgia Department of Public Health COVID-19 Daily Status Report
- CLICK HERE - Administrative Orders for Public Health Control Measures
COVID-19 Testing in Georgia
Testing is available to all Georgians who request it, whether they have symptoms or not.
- CLICK HERE - Find a Public Health Testing Locations
- CLICK HERE - Commercial Testing LocationsFrom DPH: The content in the COVID-19 Test Site Finder below is provided and maintained by Castlight: COVID-19 Resource Center. The private testing sites are not endorsed, vetted, or managed by DPH. Individual test providers can set their own testing fee. Ask about the cost, availability, and requirements for testing when you call for an appointment.
- What Does My Test Mean?
Even with a negative test result, continue to practice standard safety protocol.
CLICK HERE - Interpreting Your Results
- How Does COVID-19 Testing Work?
There are two different types of tests for COVID-19: viral tests and antibody tests.
CLICK HERE - COVID-19 Testing in Georgia
- After You Are Tested
You should isolate yourself while you wait for test results. If you have a sample taken at one of these locations, it is essential to remain at home and away from other family members as much as possible to prevent the possible spread of disease.
- COVID-19 International Travel Letter
CLICK HERE
If You're Sick or Exposed to COVID-19
- Identify Your Contacts
Each confirmed case of COVID-19 will work with trained DPH staff to identify everyone they've been in contact with to prevent additional spread of the disease.
CLICK HERE - Contact Tracing to Stop the Spread of COVID-19
- Isolate if Sick
If you have tested positive for COVID-19 infection, you must follow home isolation protocol.
CLICK HERE - Isolation Guidance
- Quarantine if Exposed
If you were exposed to someone with COVID-19, monitor your health for 14 days from your last possible exposure and quarantine at home.
CLICK HERE - Quarantine Guidance (CLICK HERE for a pdf)
PPE NEEDS - Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) - District Health Office Directory -
It is important to contact your county’s office directly to inquire about their capabilities to issue death certificate and local mandates or orders which may affect your business.
In addition, the Georgia Emergency Management Agency, with the assistance of the Georgia Department of Public Health, continues to request PPE supplies through the Federal system. To notify officials of your PPE needs.
- Contact your local health department. Note, some areas may refer you to another contact and it is important to follow their instructions.
- Following this process is important as it ensures a central line of communication to accurately track the need counts for Georgia and ensures accurate requests to the Federal level.
- Remember, resources will be allocated to the 'hot spots' throughout the country and state.
Georgia Department of Public Health - District Health Office Directory
Click on the graphic on the left to download the file.
Request for Status of Morgue Bed Availability
Facilities with morgues have been asked by the Department of Public Health (PDH) to update their morgue bed availability status daily by visiting the Morgue Availability Reporting Tool- for emergency use HERE. This is the morgue bed availability reporting tool used to report daily availability, normal and surge capacities, location and points of contact which can be completed on a phone, laptop or desktop computer. The information collected may be used by emergency managers to help support each other during these turbulent times.
Georgia State Office of Vital Records - CLICK HERE
IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT CONCERNING COVID-19
Greetings from the State Office of Vital Records,
We understand that many other offices have closed, or limited their functions to essential services due to the coronavirus (COVID-19).
For Vital Records, we would consider the top priority essential services to be 1) Issuing disposition permits, and 2) registering death records. We believe that these functions can largely be accomplished through e-mail, fax, or online through GAVERS.
A secondary priority would be issuing certified copies of birth and death records. If a county has access to their facility in order to print records, we ask that they consider issuing certificate orders by mail. That will limit the visitors to the building, but still allow customers to receive their certificates.
Lastly, good communication will be crucial during this time. We ask that county registrars communicate any changes in local operations to stakeholders like funeral directors, coroners, and birth hospitals. Please be alert for any additional communications from Georgia DPH and the State Office of Vital Records. We will share more information as it becomes available. The response to COVID-19 is changing rapidly, and we appreciate everyone’s cooperation.
Sincerely,
Chris Harrison
Guidance for Certifying COVID-19 Deaths
AGEG has received questions regarding the Guidance for Certifying COVID-19 Deaths. We have been in communication with Chris Harrison, MPH, Georgia State Registrar, Deputy Director. Please review the additional information from Mr. Harrison below.
Generally speaking COVID-19 should not be on line A. If COVID-19 is the underlying cause of death it would be listed on the lowest line used of lines A-D. In the attached guidance document that we sent there was screenshot that showed COVID-19 listed on line B (it doesn’t seem to have the screenshot in the scan you sent). None of the guidance we have sent or shared from the CDC has COVID-19 on the first line.
The way to think of the cause of death lines is:
The patient died of Line A, which was cause by Line B, which was caused by Line C, which was caused by Line D.
A sequence for a COVID-19 death could be something like:
acute respiratory failure (line A), which was caused by pneumonia (line B), which was caused by COVID-19 (line C).
If COVID-19 were listed on the first line, it would mean the COVID-19 was caused by acute respiratory failure, which doesn’t make sense and wouldn’t be accurate.
- The first line (A) should contain the immediate cause of death. That is, whatever condition the patient was experiencing in the minutes or hours prior to death. For example, “Acute respiratory failure” could be an immediate cause of death, with a duration of “minutes”
- Listed below this could be intermediate conditions (if applicable), like “bilateral pneumonia” or “sepsis” with an appropriate duration like “days” or “weeks”
- On the lowest line used would be the condition that cause the entire chain of events above. This is where the COVID-19 should go.
- Chronic conditions that might be important to consider because the put the patient at risk (asthma, hypertension, diabetes, etc.) should be listed in Part II as significant conditions, because they cannot cause COVID-19 infection (only the pandemic strain of the virus does that).
Chris Harrison, MPH
State Registrar
Deputy Director, Data Integrity & Analytics
State Office of Vital Records
Georgia Department of Public Health
CLICK HERE to utilize the links included in the guidance and for a printable version.
Governor Brian P. Kemp - CLICK HERE
"Governor Kemp Issues New COVID-19 Guidance Executive Order"
APRIL 30, 2021
Key provisions of the new executive order:
1. Modifies the social distancing and sanitation requirements for residents and visitors to “strongly encouraged.”
2. Eliminates the restaurant and bar table distancing requirements and workers mask requirement.
3. Eliminates all specific requirements for gyms and fitness centers, movie theaters, body art studios, estheticians, hair stylists, and massage therapists.
4. Reduces the requirements for Conventions.
5. Eliminates the requirement that childcare facilities prohibit all unnecessary visitors.
6. Provides that Live Performance Venues, regardless of seating capacity, are only required to follow the guidelines for all Organizations, and such venues may implement additional measures in conjunction with the performer or organizer of an event.
7. Maintains that professional, collegiate, and high school sports organizations and events shall operate pursuant to the rules or guidelines issued by their respective league, conference, or association.
8. Clarifies that graduation ceremonies are only required to follow the guidelines for all Organizations.
Providing additional guidance for Empowering a Healthy Georgia in response to COVID-19
It is ordered that unless otherwise note, the provisions in this order shall be effective from
May 1, 2021 at 12:00 A.M. until May 30, 2021 at 11:59 P.M.
04.30.21.01
Providing additional guidance for Empowering a Healthy Georgia in response to COVID-19
Click on the graphic on the left to download the file.
AGEG encourages you to review and follow all guidance contained in the Executive Order, from the Georgia Department of Public Health, and from the Centers for Disease Contol and Prevention (CDC) for measures your business should take to mitigate the exposure and spread of COVID-19 among your workforce and families you serve.
IV. Industry, Commerce, & Organizations
That all "organizations" that continue in-person operations during the effective dates of this Order shall implement measure which mitigate the exposure and spread of COVID-19 among its workforce. Such measures may include the following:
- Any measures that have been proven effective to controls the spread of COVID-19;
- Screening and evaluating workers who exhibit symptoms of COVID-19;
- Requiring workers who exhibit symptoms of COVID-19 to not report to work or to seek medical attention;
- Positng signage at the entrances to the facility stating that individuals who have been diagnosed with COVID-19, have symptoms of COVID-19, or had contact with a person that has or is suspected to have COVID-19 within the past fourteen (14) days and have not completed the post-exposure quarantine protocol shall not enter the facility;
- Enhancing sanitation as appropriate;
- Disinfecting frequently touched surfaces regularly, including but not limited to PIN entry devices, signature pads, and other point of sale equipment, door handles, and light switches;
- Increasing space between workers' worksites to maintain social distancing;
- Permitting workers to take breaks and meals outside, in their office or personal workspace, or in such other areas where proper social distancing is attainable;
- If the organization engages volunteers or has members of the public participate in activities, prohibiting volunteering or participation in activities for persons diagnosed with COVID-19, have exhibited symptoms of COVID-19, or having had contact with a person that has or is suspected to have COVID19 within the past fourteen (14) days and having not yet completed the post-exposure quarantine protocol;
- Ensuring ventilation systems to operate properly and increasing circulation and purification of air within facilities as practicable;
- If the organization provides childcare services, complying with the regulations for "Childcare Facilities" included in Section VI of the order titled "Education & Children;" and
- Any food service areas within an organization's facility must adhere to the guidelines set forth in Section III of this order titled "Restaurants & Bars."
All residents and visitors of the State of Georgia are strongly encouraged to:
- Practice Social Distancing.
- Wear face coverings as practicable while outside their homes or place of residence, except when eating, drinking or excercising outdoors.
- Pracitice sanitation in accordance with the guidelines published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
II. Definitions
- (Item 3) "Fully Vaccinated" shall mean for any person that tow (2) or more weeks have passed since said person's receipt of one dose of a single-dose COVID-19 vaccine or receipt of the second dose in a two-dose COVID-19 vaccine series.
- (Item 5) "Local Option Face Covering Requirement" shall mean a requirement imposed by a municipal, county, or other government entity that individual wear face masks or face covering when not able to maintain Social Distancing from non-cohabitating person that is permitted by the terms of this Executive Order.
- (Item 7) "Organization" shall mean any business, establishment, corporation, non-profit corporation, organization, convention, event or other entity.
- (Item 9) "Post-Exposure Quarantine Protocol" shall mean that in accordance with Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Georgia Department of Public Health guidelines, any person who has had close contact (sic (6) feet or closer for a cumulative total of fifteen (15) minutes or more with a person that has or is suspected to have COVID-19 within the past fourteen (14) days is required to either:
- Quarantine at their home or place of residence for fourteen (14) days form the date of most recent exposure;
- Quarantine at their home or place of residence for at least ten (10) days from the date of most recent exposure, then practice extreme diligence in monitoring for Symptoms of COVID-19, wearing a face covering, and social distancing until fourteen (14) days have passed since the date of most recent exposure; or
- Quarantine at their home or place of residence for at least seven (7) days from the date of most recent exposure if a COVID-19 test was taken no earlier than day five (5) of quarantine and a negative result is received, then practice extreme diligence in monitoring for Symptoms of COVID-19, wearing a face covering, and social distancing until fourteen (14) days have passed since the date of most recent exposure.
- If the exposed person has:
- Been fully vaccinated; or
- Recovered from illndess due to laboratory confirmed COVD-19 infection, has already met criteria to end isolation, and is within ninety (90) days following the onset of symptoms of the initial laboratory confirmed COVID-19 infection or ninety (90) days of the first positive COVID-19 test result if they were asymptomatic during the initial infection;
the person shall not be required to quarantine but shall actively monitor for Symptoms of COVID-19.If at any time during the Post-Exposure Quarantine Protocol time period a person experiences Symptoms of COVID-19, that person shall seek a COVID-19 test, isolate until test results are received, and proceed in accordance with the test results and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Georgia Department of Public Health guidelines.
- (Item 11) “Social Distancing” shall mean keeping space between yourself and other people outside of your home or place of residence. Persons practicing Social Distancing should stay at least six (6) feet from other people, avoid assembling in groups, avoid crowded places, and avoid large crowds. This provision shall not apply to cohabitating persons, family units, or roommates residing together in private homes, whether inside or outside of their homes or place of residence.
- (Item 12) "Symptoms of COVID-19" shall mean symptoms identified by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as symptoms of COVID-19 and shall include at least the following: fever or chills; cough; shortness of breath or difficulty breathing; fatigue; muscle of body aches; headache; new loss of taste or smell; sore throat; congestion or runny nose; nausea or vomiting; and diarrhea.
- (Item 13) "Threshold Requirement" shall mean the prevalence in a county of confirmed cases of COVID-19 over the previous fourteen (14) days is equal to or greater than one hundred (100) cases per one hundred thousand (100,000) people according to the Georgia Department of Public Health. For more information about this review pages 22-23.
Renewing the Public Health State of Emergency in response to COVID-19
It is ordered that the Public Health State of Emergency shall terminate on Sunday, May 31, 2021, at 11:59 PM,
unless it is renewed by the Governor.
unless it is renewed by the Governor.
04.23.21.01
Renewing the Public Health State of Emergency last renewed on March 31, 2021, in response to COVID-19
Click on the graphic on the left to download the file.
Additional Resources:
- Georgia’s Statewide Executive Order: Guidelines for Businesses - CLICK HERE
- Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA)
- Guidance on the Essential Ciritcal Infrastructure Workforce - CLICK HERE
- COVID-19: Hotlines and Helplines: (844) 442-2681
ADDITIONAL STATE RESOURCES
- COVID-19: State Services in Georgia - CLICK HERE
- Georgia Department of Economic Development - Georgia’s Statewide Executive Order: Guidelines for Businesses - CLICK HERE
- U.S. Small Business Administration - Coronavirus (COVID-19): Small Business Guidance & Loan Resources - CLICK HERE
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Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) - CLICK HERE
- CLICK HERE for the CDC COVID-19 section
- CLICK HERE for More Resources about COVID-19
Guidelines / Information
- CLICK HERE - Ventilation in Buildings - Mar. 23, 2021
- CLICK HERE - COVID-19 Testing Overview - Mar. 17, 2021
- CLICK HERE - What to Do If You Are Sick - Mar. 17, 2021
- CLICK HERE - When to Quarantine - Mar. 12, 2021
- CLICK HERE - When You Can be Around Others After You Had or Likely Had COVID-19 - Mar. 12, 2021
- CLICK HERE - Funeral Guidance for Individuals and Families - Dec. 28, 2020
- CLICK HERE - COVID-19 Critical Infrastructure Sector Response Planning - Dec. 3, 2020
- CLICK HERE - Collection and Submission of Postmortem Specimens from Deceased Persons with Known or Suspected COVID-19
Dec. 2, 2020 - On This Page
- Background
- Recommended Postmortem Specimens
- Recommended Biosafety and Infection Control Practices
- Collection of Postmortem Specimens
- Submission of Specimens for COVID-19 Testing
- Submission of Fixed Autopsy Tissue Specimens to CDC
- Cleaning and Waste Disposal Recommendations
- Transportation of Human Remains
- CLICK HERE - What do funeral home workers need to know about handling decedents who had COVID-19? - Nov. 10, 2020
- CLICK HERE - FAQs for Medicolegal Death Investigators - Nov. 2, 2020
- CLICK HERE - Personal Protective Equipment: Questions and Answers - Aug. 8, 2020
- CLICK HERE - Optimizing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Supplies - July 16, 2020
The National Personal Protective Technology Laboratory (NPPTL)
- CLICK HERE - Counterfeit Respirators / Misrepresentation of NIOSH-Approval - Mar. 26, 2021
- CLICK HERE - NIOSH-Approved N95 Particulate Filtering Facepiece Respirators - Mar. 01, 2021
- CLICK HERE - Respirator Trusted-Source Information / Ancillary Respirator Information / Fit Test FAQs
- CLICK HERE - FDA’s emergency use authorization list
- CLICK HERE - FDA’s eligibility criteria for alternatives to N95 respirators
CDC's Emergency Operations Center (EOC) is Available for Notification/Urgent Consultation
Medical examiners, coroners, and pathologists should immediately notify their local or state health department in the event of the identification of a deceased person with known or suspected COVID-19. State and local health departments who have identified a deceased known or suspected COVID-19 case can notify CDC’s Emergency Operations Center (EOC) at 770-488-7100 for urgent consultation if an autopsy is being considered or submission of autopsy tissue specimens or postmortem swabs to CDC for COVID-19 testing is desired. The EOC will assist local/state health departments to collect, store, and ship specimens appropriately to CDC, including during afterhours or on weekends/holidays.
Department of Homeland Security (DHS) - CLICK HERE
- CLICK HERE - Department of Homeland Security’s Response to COVID-19
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) - CLICK HERE
As always, we caution you to be aware of email and phone scams. If you receive an email which seems suspicious don't click on links or open attachments. Note the email address associated with the message or phone number associated with the call.
From FEMA - Coronavirus Rumor Control
There have been reports that scammers are pretending to be the government, contacting people by robocall, text message, email and other outreach. These scammers say they can get people financial help during the COVID-19 pandemic, and then ask for money or personal information, like your Social Security, bank account or credit card number. This is a SCAM.
Don’t trust anyone who offers financial help and then asks for money or personal information. Federal and local disaster workers do not solicit or accept money. The Department of Homeland Security, FEMA, U.S. Health and Human Services and the Centers for Disease Control staff never charge for disaster assistance.
The Federal Trade Commission scams page has tips to help you avoid scams online, on the phone, by text and through email. If you see a scam, please report it to the Federal Trade Commission: ftc.gov/complaint.
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) - CLICK HERE
- CLICK HERE - Protecting Workers: Guidance on Mitigating and Preventing the Spread of COVID-19 in the Workplace - Jan. 29, 2021
- CLICK HERE for a printable pdf version - Identify risk levels and determine appropriate control measures
- CLICK HERE - Prevent Worker Exposure to Coronavirus (COVID-19)
- CLICK HERE - COVID-19 Guidance on Ventilation in the Workplace
- CLICK HERE - COVID-19 Frequently Asked Questions
This page includes frequently asked questions (FAQs) and answers related to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Questions are grouped by topic, and cover: - General Information
- Cleaning and Disinfection
- Cloth Face Coverings
- Construction
- Employer Requirements
- Healthcare
- Liability Waivers
- Personal Protective Equipment
- Posting the OSHA 300A or Equivalent Form
- Respirators and Particle Size
- Reporting
- Restrooms and Handwashing Facilities
- Retaliation
- Return to Work
- Testing for COVID-19
- Training
- Worker Protection Concerns
Order printed copies of OSHA COVID-19 posters and guidance booklets for your workplace. All items are free and available in multiple languages. Visit HERE, OSHA’s publications page, to place an order.
World Health Organization (WHO) - CLICK HERE
- CLICK HERE - Infection prevention and control for the safe management of a dead body in the context of COVID-19: interim guidance
- CLICK HERE - Q&A: Mass gatherings and COVID-19
- CLICK HERE - Maintaining essential health services during the COVID-19 outbreak
- CLICK HERE - Technical guidance publications
- CLICK HERE - Risk communication and community engagement
ADDITIONAL FEDERAL RESOURCES
- Federal Trade Commission
- Social media is no place for COVID-19 vaccination cards - Feb. 5, 2021 - CLICK HERE
- Business owners: Latest COVID scam is directed at you - Jan. 13, 2021 - CLICK HERE
- Coronavirus.gov - CLICK HERE
- USA.gov/Coronavirus - CLICK HERE
- CombatCOVID.hhs.gov - CLICK HERE
- WhiteHouse.gov - CLICK HERE
- Biden-Harris Plan to Beat COVID-19 - CLICK HERE
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3-18-20 - Letter from the AGEG Board of Directors COVID-19
Click on the graphic on the left to download the file.
Richard Jenkins
President
Darren Ford
Vice President
Lee Mack Pierce, Jr.
Secretary
Mike Cloud
Board Member
"Embalming COVID-19: Infection Control and Storage"
Pierce Chemical's COO, Lance Ray and Dr. Jzyk Ennis, PhD have recently discussed what embalmers should be thinking about as they plan to handle their first case of COVID-19. Dr. Ennis makes some great points and offers some new thoughts on the safe care of the deceased under these circumstances.
CLICK HERE to view their article.
AGEG provides COVID-19 information as a service to funeral service professionals. AGEG Members receive AGEG News emails directly with guidance, information and resources critical to their business during the pandemic. If you are not an AGEG member and have found the information useful, we hope you will join. CLICK HERE for our 2021 membership form or contact the AGEG office.
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