Indiana’s public health emergency has been extended until August 30. Governor Eric Holcomb extended his emergency declaration for a 17th time in an executive order Thursday. That will bring the emergency to almost a year-and-a-half.
In a separate order, the governor extended several COVID-19-related flexibilities. That means temporary licensing for health care workers will continue through September, and EMTs and trained National Guard members can continue to administer vaccines. The order also lets the Family and Social Services Administration waive requirements for certain programs and remain eligible for emergency federal funding.
The orders cite Indiana’s rising positivity rate and continued COVID-19 hospitalizations and deaths. The governor encourages all eligible Hoosiers to get a COVID-19 vaccine. Holcomb calls on everyone to take responsibility for their own safety and the safety of those around them. Whether or not they’re vaccinated, individuals are asked to get tested and self-quarantine if they or a household member develop symptoms or have been in close contact with someone who’s tested positive.
Meanwhile, the Indiana Department of Health continues directing congregate settings like long-term care facilities, schools, and jails to report positive cases and help with contact tracing.
