Category: Public Health

DOVER (Oct. 5, 2022)– The Delaware Division of Public Health (DPH) is announcing the state’s first two laboratory-confirmed cases of influenza for the 2022-2023 flu season, including the first pediatric case. The cases involve a New Castle County child under the age of 5, infected with influenza strain A/H3, who was not vaccinated, as well as a 32-year-old Kent County woman, with influenza strain A, who was vaccinated.

“Announcing our first two cases of the flu, just days after the start of the season, is a strong indicator for Delawareans to get their flu vaccines as soon as possible,” said Interim DPH Director Dr. Rick Hong. “The flu is a threat to our health, and getting the vaccine is the best way to protect yourself from either getting it, or at the very least reducing the severity of symptoms and illness if you do get it.”

The flu vaccine is recommended for Delawareans 6 months of age and older and can be administered at the same time as the COVID-19 vaccine. Since it takes approximately two weeks after vaccination for antibodies that protect against influenza virus infection to develop in the body, it is important to get vaccinated as early as possible to give your body time to build immunity. Getting the flu vaccine now will also provide protection during the entire flu season. The vaccine can help prevent the flu and can safeguard against serious effects such as hospitalization or death if a person who does receive the vaccine catches the flu.

During the 2021-2022 flu season, Delaware recorded more than 2,700 laboratory-confirmed flu cases. More than 150 Delawareans were hospitalized due to the flu and three people died from flu complications.

A schedule for flu vaccines at Public Health clinics for uninsured and underinsured individuals can be found at:

https://coronavirus.delaware.gov/fight-the-flu/flu-vaccine-finder. While DPH no longer holds mass community flu clinics, it is offering flu vaccines at community-based locations where the DPH mobile units also provide additional health services. Flu vaccines also are offered through physician offices, many pharmacies (including those within grocery stores) and Federally Qualified Health Centers.

To locate where flu vaccines near you are being offered, Google “CDC flu finder” and enter your ZIP code. The flu is easy to transmit, and you can get it even from seemingly healthy, but unvaccinated, children and adults. Children, older adults, and those who have chronic underlying medical conditions are most at risk for complications from the flu and are strongly encouraged to get vaccinated now.

In addition to getting an annual flu shot, Delawareans can prevent the spread of the flu the same way they can prevent COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses:

• wash hands frequently with soap and water or use alcohol-based hand sanitizers
• cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue
• maintain 6 feet of space between others, especially those who reside outside of your own home
• avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth

The flu and COVID-19 have many similar symptoms. They include fever or feeling feverish/chills, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, fatigue (tiredness), sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle pain or body aches, and headaches. Other signs and symptoms of COVID-19 that are different from flu include a change in or loss of taste or smell. If you are sick, the best thing to do is call your health care provider to see if you should get tested for COVID-19 or come in for a visit.

Those sick with the flu should stay home from work, school and other gatherings and not return until they have been free of fever– with a temperature of less than 100 degrees F (37.8 degrees C), without the use of fever-reducing medications– for at least 24 hours. People with flu symptoms should avoid close contact with well people in the household; you can give someone the flu 24 hours before you show symptoms and five to seven days after you get sick. Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water and other clear liquids. Over-the-counter medicines can provide symptom relief, but if you suspect you have influenza, call your doctor as they may decide to provide antiviral medications to help hasten recovery and prevent serious complications. This is particularly important for those who feel very sick, are pregnant or have chronic medical conditions.

For more information about the flu and where to get vaccinated, visit flu.delaware.gov or call 1-800-282-8672.

Anyone who is deaf, hard of hearing, Deaf-Blind or speech disabled can contact DPH by dialing 711 first using specialized devices (i.e. TTY, TeleBraille, voice devices). The 711 service is free and to learn more about how it works, please visit delawarerelay.com.

DPH, a division of DHSS, urges Delawareans to make healthier choices with the 5-2-1 Almost None campaign: eat 5 or more fruits and vegetables each day, have no more than 2 hours of recreational screen time each day (includes TV, computer, gaming), get 1 or more hours of physical activity each day, and drink almost no sugary beverages.

Delaware Health and Social Services is committed to improving the quality of the lives of Delaware’s citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations.

DOVER, DE (Sept. 29, 2022)– October 2 marks the official start of the 2022-2023 influenza (flu) season. The flu vaccine plays a pivotal role in helping to avoid significant flu-related illnesses, including hospitalization and death. The Delaware Division of Public Health (DPH) believes it is vital for Delawareans to protect themselves and their loved ones by getting the flu vaccine as soon as possible, particularly given the ongoing battle against COVID-19 and a potentially active flu season ahead. The U.S. often looks to the experience of Australia and New Zealand in the Southern Hemisphere during their flu season in the summer as a possible signal of what we might face. This year, the countries had a particularly active flu season.

Everyone 6 months and older should get a flu vaccine each year. Children younger than 5, older adults, pregnant women, and those with chronic underlying medical conditions are most at risk for complications from the flu and are strongly encouraged to get vaccinated now. DPH also urges vaccination for those who live or work with infants under 6 months of age and those who live or work in congregant settings such as long-term care and correctional facilities. DPH wants the public to know that the flu vaccine can be administered at the same time as the COVID-19 vaccine, which includes the new bivalent booster.

DPH is expanding its data collection and presentation capabilities this year. For the first time, in a pilot of approximately 20 Influenza-Like Illness Network (ILI Net) Providers statewide, DPH will collect and report the results of rapid flu test results. In the past, DPH has reported only laboratory-confirmed cases, thereby limiting the picture of the actual incidence of flu in Delaware for a given flu season. Since DPH is increasing the amount of data it collects and shares, comparing the data with that of past years should be done cautiously. In addition to collecting rapid flu test results, DPH will begin collecting information on other respiratory viruses such as respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) to get an expanded view of the respiratory viruses circulating during the influenza season. Later in October, DPH will make flu data available on the My Healthy Community data portal, much like it does for COVID-19. Data will still be updated weekly as in the past, but information related to flu vaccination rates in the state will be provided for the first time.

“The flu remains a serious health threat and we are already seeing influenza starting to circulate in advance of the official start of the season next week,” said Interim DPH Director Dr. Rick Hong. “The flu is contagious and has the ability to cause serious illness and even death. The vaccine is your best shot at reducing your risk of ending up in the hospital or worse. Despite recent decreases in COVID-19 cases, hospitals are still under strain, and Delawareans should continue to take steps to prevent emergency hospital visits, including getting the annual flu vaccine.”

Since it takes about two weeks after vaccination for antibodies against influenza virus infection to develop in the body, it is crucial to get vaccinated as early as possible to give your body time to build immunity. Getting the flu vaccine now will also protect people during the entire flu season. Find information about the flu and where to get it at flu.delaware.gov.

Flu vaccines are available at pharmacies (including in grocery stores), participating medical provider offices, Federally Qualified Health Centers (for their patients), and Division of Public Health clinics. While DPH no longer holds mass community flu clinics, it is offering flu vaccines at community-based locations where the DPH mobile units also provide additional health services.

Flu symptoms come on suddenly and include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, headaches, body aches, chills, and fatigue. Some signs and symptoms of flu and COVID-19 are similar, including fever, cough, sore throat, shortness of breath, runny or stuffy nose, headaches, and body aches, chills, and fatigue. Testing can effectively help you determine which illness you have. Children, older adults, and those with chronic underlying medical conditions are most at risk for complications from the flu and are strongly encouraged to get vaccinated now.

Those sick with the flu should stay home from work, school, and other gatherings and not return until they have been free of fever– with a temperature less than 100 degrees F (37.8 degrees C), without the use of fever-reducing medications– for at least 24 hours.

In addition, people with flu symptoms should avoid close contact with people in the household and stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water and other clear liquids. Over-the-counter medicines can provide symptom relief, but if you suspect you have influenza, call your doctor as they may decide to provide antiviral medications to help hasten recovery and prevent serious complications. Contacting your primary care provider is particularly important for those who feel very sick, are pregnant, or have chronic medical conditions.

DPH will again share flu-related messaging through radio, print, and social media messaging and distribute a toolkit to schools, community-based organizations, and medical providers to help encourage flu vaccination through their networks.

For more information about the flu and where to get vaccinated, visit flu.delaware.gov or call 1-800-282-8672.

Anyone who is deaf, hard of hearing, Deaf-Blind or speech disabled can contact DPH by dialing 711 first using specialized devices (i.e. TTY, TeleBraille, voice devices). The 711 service is free and to learn more about how it works, please visit delawarerelay.com.

DPH, a division of DHSS, urges Delawareans to make healthier choices with the 5-2-1 Almost None campaign: eat 5 or more fruits and vegetables each day, have no more than 2 hours of recreational screen time each day (includes TV, computer, gaming), get 1 or more hours of physical activity each day, and drink almost no sugary beverages.

Delaware Health and Social Services is committed to improving the quality of the lives of Delaware’s citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations.

NEW CASTLE (Sept. 27, 2022) – Nominations for the 2022 Governor’s Outstanding Volunteer Service Awards, which honor exemplary service and the true spirit of volunteerism by recognizing individuals, age 18 or older, and organizations who are making a difference across Delaware communities, are now open.

“Volunteers all across our state are doing incredible things on behalf of individuals, organizations and communities in need,” Governor John Carney said. “The Governor’s Outstanding Volunteer Awards offer an opportunity to nominate and honor those champions for making a difference in our state.”

Nominations will close on Oct. 13, 2022, and awardees will be honored at an evening reception on Dec. 8, 2022. Recipients of the Governor’s Outstanding Volunteer Awards must exemplify the following characteristics:

• Demonstrate sustained volunteer commitment to meeting Delaware’s most pressing human and/or environmental needs;

• Engage in meaningful volunteer service that makes a measurable difference in the community;

• Represent extraordinary acts of generosity and kindness, and through volunteerism, have an impact on Delaware communities.

To nominate an individual or organization, visit: volunteer.delaware.gov. Only electronic nominations will be accepted using the online form.

If you have questions or concerns, please contact Diane Frebert, Volunteer Services Administrator, at diane.frebert@delaware.gov

The Governor’s Outstanding Volunteer Service Awards are sponsored by the Office of the Governor, administered by the Division of State Service Centers in the Delaware Department of Health and Social Services, and the State Office of Volunteerism, with the support of the Governor’s Commission on Community and Volunteer Service.

Delaware Health and Social Services is committed to improving the quality of the lives of Delaware’s citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations.

NEW CASTLE (Sept. 27, 2022)– The Delaware Division of Social Services will issue emergency benefits for September to eligible households as part of the State’s ongoing response to the COVID-19 public health emergency.

Benefits will be issued as part of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and two cash assistance programs– Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) and General Assistance (GA). The SNAP emergency food benefit will be available on recipients’ Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards Thursday, Sept. 29. Eligible TANF and GA households will receive an emergency cash benefit check on or after Thursday, Sept. 29.

All households with open SNAP cases will receive at least $95 in emergency food benefits, to be issued as follows:

1. SNAP households receiving the maximum food benefit amount for their household size or a prorated initial benefit will receive $95 in emergency food benefits.
2. SNAP households with a calculated emergency food benefit amount less than $95 will have their emergency benefit increased to $95.
3. SNAP households with a calculated emergency benefit amount of $95 or more will continue to receive the calculated emergency benefit amount to increase the household’s monthly benefit up to the maximum benefit amount for their household size.

The emergency assistance for TANF and GA families will increase a household’s monthly benefit for each program up to the maximum benefit amount for their household size. Households that already receive the maximum TANF or GA benefit amount or that have a prorated benefit in the month of September are not eligible for the September emergency cash funds.

The Delaware Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS) has issued emergency benefits each month to eligible households since March 2020.

“For individuals and families in Delaware struggling to bounce back from the economic struggles brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, these monthly emergency benefits have been a critical bridge,” DHSS Secretary Molly Magarik said. “With COVID cases, hospitalizations and deaths declining in Delaware and across the country, we expect the day will come in the next few months that these enhanced benefits will end. In the meantime, we encourage Delawareans receiving these benefits to prepare for that day, while we continue to be grateful to the federal government and to Delaware’s congressional delegation for providing this crucial bridge.”

How the monthly emergency benefit is calculated: A household’s monthly emergency benefit equals the current maximum benefit amount for the household size minus the household’s current monthly benefit amount. For example, based on current USDA limits for SNAP benefits, if a household of one gets $100 in regular monthly benefits, that household will receive $150 in emergency benefits ($250 maximum benefit minus $100 monthly benefit).

Here are the current maximum monthly benefit amounts per household size for SNAP, TANF, and General Assistance:

Emergency SNAP Benefits

Number in SNAP Household	Maximum Benefit Amount
1	$250
2	$459
3	$658
4	$835
5	$992
6	$1,190
7	$1,316
8	$1,504
Each additional person	$188

An estimated 59,367 Delaware households will receive the emergency SNAP allotment in September, totaling about $11.9 million in emergency food benefits for the month.

Emergency cash benefits

Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)

Number in TANF Household	Maximum Benefit Amount
1	$201
2	$270
3	$338
4	$407
5	$475
6	$544
7	$612
8	$681
9	$750
10	$819

General Assistance (GA)

Number in GA Household	Maximum Benefit Amount
1	$79
2	$107
3	$144
4	$169
5	$209
6	$239

An estimated 185 households will be eligible to receive emergency cash assistance benefits in September, totaling about $24,500 in emergency benefits for the month.

In addition to the emergency benefits, households will receive their regular benefits for September on the usual issuance dates.

For more information about DSS’s benefit programs in response to the pandemic, go to division’s webpage.

To screen for and apply for benefits, go to DHSS’ online application portal Delaware ASSIST or call 1-866-843-7212.

Delaware Health and Social Services is committed to improving the quality of the lives of Delaware’s citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations.

NEW CASTLE (Sept. 26, 2022)– A small listening session held by the Division of Child Support Services (DCSS) led to more than 1,000 non-custodial parents being notified that that the suspension of their Delaware licenses has been lifted. The Division learned from a group of parents that although they were now in compliance with their child support obligation, they had never sought the return of their licenses.

DCSS Division Director Theodore Mermigos said through the extraordinary efforts by his staff to review 1,352 active child support cases dating back to 2013, DCSS was able to reinstate 86% of the licenses (1,167) to the paying non-custodial parent. Parents whose licenses were reinstated will need to pay any fees associated with having their licenses reinstated at the licensing agency. Letters are being sent by DCSS to the paying parents to notify them that the suspension of their licenses has been lifted for making consistent child support payments.

DCSS can suspend driver’s, recreational, business, and professional licenses issued by partnering state agencies for parents who owe at least $3,500 in past due child support and have not made a payment, as ordered by Family Court, in the past 60 days. Additionally, license suspensions can occur for parents who have an outstanding Capias or bench warrant issued by Family Court for failure to appear at any paternity or child support proceeding.

“The Division of Child Support Services’ License Suspension Program is one of the most active enforcement tools at DCSS,” Director Mermigos said. “We recently met with a small group of parents whose licenses were suspended years ago and they are now in compliance with their child support obligation, but they had not contacted DCSS to seek return of their licenses. We at DCSS are happy to be able to return the licenses to these parents.”

DCSS is unable to return a suspended license if an outstanding Capias or bench warrant is issued by Family Court. Parents with an outstanding Capias or bench warrant are encouraged to contact the Family Court to resolve the matter and have the outstanding Capias or bench warrant canceled.

Paying parents are encouraged to contact DCSS if they believe they have made payments for six months or more and their license has been suspended.

Any parent seeking assistance with paying their child support can contacting the Division of Child Support Services at 302-577-7171. To learn more, visit DCSS’s website.

Delaware Health and Social Services is committed to improving the quality of the lives of Delaware’s citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations.

DOVER, DE (Sept 22, 2022)– The Delaware Division of Public Health (DPH) is sharing upcoming opportunities for individuals to get vaccinated against the monkeypox virus (MPX). The current case count for MPX in the state is 35, including 23 cases in New Castle County, three cases in Kent County, and nine cases in Sussex County. Delaware continues to offer vaccinations to people at a higher risk of exposure.

Vaccine eligibility is being expanded to include all gay, bisexual and transgender or nonbinary persons having sex with men, or females having sex with gay, bisexual, non-binary, or transgender males. Delaware is also expanding vaccine eligibility to health care workers who are providing direct patient care to confirmed/suspected MPX cases in areas such as Emergency Departments, urgent cares, Federally Qualified Health Centers, DPH clinics, STI/HIV or sexual health clinics, and those at occupational risk such as laboratory staff that handle MPX specimens.

Recent data show the risk of MPX to exposed health care workers to be low even when use of personal protective equipment (PPE) is incomplete. However, to ensure the greatest level of protection against MPX, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends health care staff wear PPE consisting of gown, gloves, eye protection, and an N95 (or higher-level) respirator while caring for patients with suspected or confirmed MPX.

Eligible Delawareans may also receive monkeypox vaccinations at:

• Newark Urgent Care– Visit NewarkUrgentCare.org to view eligibility requirements and schedule an appointment. Vaccine clinics are on Thursdays, and there is no cost for the vaccine.
• Beebe Healthcare, as of Friday, Aug. 26. Individuals can schedule an appointment at beebehealthcare.org/online-scheduling. Walk-ins will not be accepted.
• DPH clinics: Individuals should call the MPX hotline at 866-408-1899 for a screening evaluation. Walk-ins at DPH clinics will not be accepted. Monkeypox vaccinations at DPH clinics will continue to prioritize individuals at highest risk after a DPH evaluation: persons known or presumed to be exposed to someone with MPX in the last 14 days, and certain individuals who have sex with men and who have had multiple sex partners within the past 14 days. As a result, appointments may need to be scheduled a few days out.

Signs and Symptoms

The symptoms of MPX are similar to but milder than the symptoms of smallpox. Symptoms usually start within three weeks of exposure to the virus. Most people who contract MPX will develop a rash, and some will develop flu-like symptoms beforehand. The flu-like symptoms may include fever, headache, muscle aches and backache, sore throat, cough, swollen lymph nodes, chills, or exhaustion. If someone has flu-like symptoms, they usually will develop a rash one to four days later.

If you suspect you are experiencing any symptoms associated with MPX you should immediately:

• Contact your health care provider and discuss your symptoms and concerns.
• Self-isolate until all lesions have resolved, the scabs have fallen off, and a fresh layer of intact skin has formed.
• Avoid being intimate with others.
• Make a list of your close and intimate contacts in the last 21 days

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It can take three to four weeks for all symptoms to fully heal. While there is no specific treatment for MPX, antivirals can be prescribed, though they are not always needed. To learn more information about monkeypox, please visit de.gov/monkeypox. DPH posts MPX case and vaccine data on the website along with resources for the general public, and provides a separate page for medical providers.

DPH launched a hotline for individuals with questions or concerns about MPX. The hotline number is 866-408-1899 and is operational Monday– Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Questions may also be emailed to DPHCall@delaware.gov. Both the hotline number and email address share staff with the COVID-19 Call Center. To learn more about MPX prevention programs and resources, visit de.gov/monkeypox.

Anyone who is deaf, hard of hearing, Deaf-Blind or speech disabled can contact DPH by dialing 711 first using specialized devices (i.e. TTY, TeleBraille, voice devices). The 711 service is free and to learn more about how it works, please visit delawarerelay.com.

DPH, a division of DHSS, urges Delawareans to make healthier choices with the 5-2-1 Almost None campaign: eat 5 or more fruits and vegetables each day, have no more than 2 hours of recreational screen time each day (includes TV, computer, gaming), get 1 or more hours of physical activity each day, and drink almost no sugary beverages.

Delaware Health and Social Services is committed to improving the quality of the lives of Delaware’s citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations.

Dover, DE (Sept. 20, 2022)– The Division of Public Health (DPH) is announcing their youth-led #MyReasonWhyDE campaign. #MyReasonWhyDE asks Delaware youth to make short Public Service Announcement (PSA) videos that promote the positive aspects of their lives that keep them happy, healthy, and drug-free, engaged citizens. Using the collective campaign ad model, like the “Got Milk?” ads, #MyReasonWhyDE is featuring the youth in our community as influencers providing a diverse set of “reasons” to choose not to use drugs.

The #MyReasonWhy campaign is part of DPH’s long-term strategy to work with partner organizations in the community and state, such as school systems, to promote resiliency and positive messaging. Youth who are interested in creating a PSA video should visit MyReasonWhyDE.com.

Through federal Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) funding, DPH teamed up with The Cause to facilitate a series of four workshops throughout the state to create the summer PSA series to educate youth on Substance Use Disorder (SUD). At the upcoming #MyReasonWhyDE celebration event, DPH will be announcing the PSAs that have met the challenge of communicating information and resources about SUD, as well as highlight the reason why youth have chosen to be drug-free and live positive lives. This event will be held on Sept. 22 at the Bellevue Theater in Wilmington’s Bellevue Community Center, with doors opening at 5:30 p.m. and the live show beginning at 6:00 p.m. All ages are welcome to attend. To register to attend in person, go to https://forms.gle/BZ7sS8TG3bDrngTK9 and to register to attend virtually, go to https://causetheworld.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZAkcu2vrzgoHdcamHl3Q8a6kcXKKX9qjTXF.

According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH, 2018-2019), approximately 4% of all people aged 12 and older used an illicit drug (not including marijuana) in the past month in Delaware. Broken down by age, 2.44% of Delaware youth between ages 12 to 17, 6.67% of adults ages 18 to 25, and 3.79% of adults aged 26 and older reported using an illicit drug such as cocaine (including crack), heroin, hallucinogens, inhalants, or methamphetamine, or misusing prescription psychotherapeutics in the past month.

The 2020 Delaware School Survey (DSS) indicates that 2% of 8th grade students reported use of an illicit drug (other than marijuana) in the past month and 5% within the past year. One in ten students reported misuse of prescription and over-the-counter medication (including pain medication) within the previous year. Yet less than half (46%) of 8th graders reported perceiving a great risk in misusing prescription medication.

It is important to educate our youth and provide alternative choices to drugs. DPH is continuing to look for partners to help grow this message. If interested, contact Katie Capelli at katie.capelli@delaware.gov

If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction in Delaware, call DHSS’ 24/7 Crisis Hotline to be connected to treatment and recovery options. In New Castle County, call 1-800-652-2929. Or in Kent and Sussex counties, call 1-800-345-6785. For free 24/7 counseling, coaching, and support, as well as links to mental health, addiction, and crisis services call the Delaware Hope Line at 833-9-HOPEDE. To search online for treatment and recovery services in Delaware or nearby states, visit HelpIsHereDE.com.

Delaware Health and Social Services is committed to improving the quality of the lives of Delaware’s citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations.

WILMINGTON (Sept. 19, 2022) – As a way to directly connect community members struggling with opioid use disorder and other behavioral health issues to treatment, recovery and prevention services, the Community Well-Being Initiative (CWBI), which began in 2021 in high-risk areas of New Castle County, will be expanded to serve targeted neighborhoods in Kent County in collaboration with Delaware State University, Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS) Secretary Molly Magarik announced today at a press conference at the Chase Center.

“This is about meeting communities where they are and offering on-the-ground support to neighborhood residents who have been significantly impacted by the opioid epidemic in our state,” Secretary Magarik said. “It is important that we are expanding the Community Well-Being Initiative to Kent County to help address the trauma and toxic stress that community members there experience as well. From the success of the New Castle County pilot, we have seen how important it is for Community Well-being Ambassadors to have lived experience and to reside in the areas they serve.”

The initiative, a partnership between the Department of Health and Social Services’ Division of Substance Abuse and Mental Health (DSAMH) and the University of Delaware’s Partnership for Health Communities, began in 2021 by identifying four ZIP codes in New Castle County– 19801, 19802 and 19805 in Wilmington and 19720 in New Castle– with high rates of fatal and non-fatal overdoses, and high rates of drug arrests. The initiative is funded through the Delaware State Opioid Response (SOR) grant from the U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).

In the pilot, 24 Community Well-being Ambassadors, who were hired by the nonprofit Network Connect and embedded in the neighborhoods, worked to identify and engage with individuals and families who typically do not seek formal treatment and recovery services for opioid and other substance use disorders. By meeting people where they are, the ambassadors, who work through host sites in the community, were able to build trust with community members. From May 2021 to March 2022, 450 community members engaged with ambassadors, for a total of 2,522 total interactions, including:

• Engaging people with behavioral health needs when they were ready to engage.
• Improving coordination across referrals and access to additional social services, including employment, housing and transportation.
• Providing prevention education and care management for opioid and other substance use disorders, along with support for mental, physical, social and spiritual well-being.
• Preparing person-centered, peer-supported, long-term treatment support for individuals, families and communities.
• Building prepared and resilient communities.

The expansion to Kent County will involve Delaware State University as the managing partner of the initiative, along with DSAMH and UD’s Partnership for Healthy Communities. Additional Kent County partners, include Network Connect, Minds in Motion Integrated Behavioral Health, the Center for Structural Equity/Community Intervention Team, GBA Consulting, and the host sites:

• Delaware Multi-Cultural Civic Organization
• DSU Biomedical, Behavioral and Allied Health Center
• DSU-Downtown
• Two additional sites (pending)

“Delaware State University is elated to be a managing partner for such a phenomenal initiative. The Community Well-being Initiative aligns with our university’s core values and mission,”

said Dr. Gwendolyn Scott-Jones, Dean of DSU’s Wesley College of Health and Behavioral Sciences. “This behavioral health integration and 21st-century case management model of service delivery executed by Network Connect is a monumental approach to addressing health disparities, psychological crises, substance-related disorders, mental health disorders and identifying social determinants that can help us better understand and improve health inequities. More specifically, the partnership with DSAMH, UD, Network Connect and other community partners is a way forward to provide a service integration model that will help people in their environments.”

“We are grateful to Delaware State University for being the managing partner of the Community Well-being Initiative in Kent County,” said Rita Landgraf, Director of the University of Delaware’s Partnership for Healthy Communities. “The strength of the Community Well-being Initiative is about the diversity of partners coming together, including the communities themselves, to support residents and families who aren’t used to seeking treatment for substance use disorder. The value of promoting health equity is critical to both UD and DSU, as is the experience of being an innovation incubator, piloting new ideas, evaluating how projects work, and learning what will provide that collective impact in our communities.”

The expansion in Kent County will involve ZIP codes– 19901, 19902, 19904 and 19934– that have high rates of fatal and non-fatal overdoses and high rates of drug arrests. The initiative, which began with Network Connect hiring staff in August 2022, will launch this fall in the communities and be staffed by 16 Community Well-being Ambassadors (CWA) and two CWA Program Coordinators.

“At DSAMH, we are excited to collaborate with so many community partners, including DSU, to embed ambassadors in these at-risk neighborhoods in Kent County,” said Division of Substance Abuse and Mental Health (DSAMH) Director Joanna Champney. “The Community Well-being Ambassadors have lived experience and provide support directly to community members in their communities. They help individuals and families identify their most pressing needs, provide relevant information, and develop strategies for addressing those needs, including a connection to behavioral health and other community services and ongoing support. Ambassadors also are trained in administering naloxone, a medication that can reverse an opioid overdose, and they distribute naloxone and other critical overdose prevention knowledge in the communities where they work.”

In the continuing New Castle County pilot, the 24 Community Well-being Ambassadors and two CWA Program Coordinators are embedded in neighborhoods and integrated with these host sites:

• Center for Structural Equity
• Game Changers
• Hilltop Lutheran Neighborhood Center
• Network Connect
• Youth Empowerment Center

Lt. Governor Bethany Hall-Long, Chair of the Behavioral Health Consortium, said the Community Well-being Initiative and the Ambassador program are helping to facilitate two of the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s (SAMHSA) goals under the State Opioid Response grants: to expand opioid use disorder/stimulant use disorder treatment engagement strategies and reduce barriers to accessing treatment, as well as to create a greater strategic focus on racial and ethnic populations in SAMHSA’s investments.

“As we saw in the targeted outreach in New Castle County and now in the expansion into Kent County, the Community Well-being Initiative is about promoting equity,” Lt. Governor Hall-Long said. “In order to encourage more community residents to seek treatment for substance use disorder, we need to have Community Well-being Ambassadors who live in the communities, collaborating with trusted community partners and building trust with the people they serve. This is another important way that we are building a stronger and healthier Delaware for more of our residents.”

“Our ambassadors really focus on everyday life skills,” said Cierra Hall-Hipkins, Co-Founder and Co-Executive Director of Network Connect. “They have people come to them with real-life situations that they, too, experienced themselves and they are able to be peer connectors– life coaches, so to speak– for everyday folks in our community. It’s a game-changer.”

In 2021, Delaware reported 515 overdose deaths, an increase of more than 15% over 2020, according to the Delaware Division of Forensic Science (DFS). In Kent County, overdose deaths increased 74% from 50 in 2020 to 87 in 2021. DFS also reported that 425 of the 515 deaths involved fentanyl, a synthetic pain reliever that is 50-100 times more potent than morphine.

NOTE TO MEDIA: A group photo from today’s press conference is attached. Here is the caption:

Community Well-being Ambassadors from Network Connect, a Wilmington nonprofit, join DHSS Secretary Molly Magarik; Division of Substance Abuse and Mental Health Director Joanna Champney; Dr. Gwendolyn Scott-Jones, Dean of Wesley College of Health and Behavioral Sciences at Delaware State University; Cierra Hall-Hipkins, Co-Founder and Co-Executive Director of Network Connect; Orlando Foreman, a Community Well-being Ambassador; and other officials after a Sept. 19 press conference at the Chase Center in Wilmington announcing an expansion of the Community Well-being Initiative into high-risk neighborhoods in the Dover area.

Delaware Health and Social Services is committed to improving the quality of the lives of Delaware’s citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations.

NEW CASTLE (Sept. 19, 2022)– Delaware Division of Child Support Services (DCSS) offices in all three counties will be closed Friday, Sept. 23, due to an in-service staff meeting. Child support customers who have in-person business are encouraged to come earlier in the week.

Account information can be accessed 24/7 by calling the Automated Assistance Line at 302-577-7171 or logging into the customer website. Information about the customer website and how to create a username and password can be found at DCSS’s website.

Delaware Child Support Services offices will return to regular hours at 8 a.m. Monday, Sept. 26.

For information about Delaware’s child support program, visit the website or the division’s Facebook page.

Delaware Health and Social Services is committed to improving the quality of the lives of Delaware’s citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations.

DOVER, DE (September 16, 2022)– The Delaware Division of Public Health (DPH) is pleased to share declines in hospitalizations, test positivity rates and the 7-day average of new positive COVID-19 cases continued for the second month in a row. Deaths also remain low. However, COVID-19 is still circulating in the community, and at higher levels in some counties. Additionally, while hospitalizations overall are down, in recent weeks they have increased in the 0-4 months age range and the 18-34 years age range. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) COVID-19 Community Levels data tracker, which was last updated on September 15, COVID-19 community levels in Kent and Sussex counties are considered medium, while levels in New Castle County are listed as low.

Recently, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and CDC have authorized the new bivalent boosters from Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna, which target two strains of COVID-19: the original strain of the virus, and two of the Omicron variants (BA.4 and BA.5), currently, the most widespread variants in the world. The updated bivalent boosters are available to all individuals 12 years of age and older who have received their primary series of vaccination at least two months before (a minimum of two doses of Pfizer, Moderna or Novavax and one dose of Johnson and Johnson). Individuals who have recently had COVID-19 are still encouraged to get a booster to optimize their protection but should consider waiting three months after they have recovered.

Changes in the virus necessitated new, updated boosters to improve protection. To reduce confusion among the public and vaccine providers, and because they do not offer the increased levels of protection provided by the bivalent boosters, the original booster formula is no longer authorized for use in those 12 and older. Medical providers may no longer administer them to anyone older than 12.

By authorizing the vaccines in September rather than waiting until later this fall, the CDC estimates the prevention of over 137,000 hospitalizations and 9,200 deaths in the first two months alone. To further support the effectiveness of vaccines and boosters in reducing serious illness, a study of the Journal of the American Medical Association indicates that during the original Omicron surge earlier this year, unvaccinated individuals were 10.5 times more likely to be hospitalized than those who were vaccinated and boosted.

Pfizer-BioNTech boosters are authorized for ages 12 and older, while Moderna is authorized for 18 years of age and older. Regardless of which brand of vaccine you previously received, you can get any bivalent booster for which you are eligible. As of this time, only the monovalent boosters targeting the original strain are available for children 5 through 11 years of age. Parents are encouraged to vaccinate their children now with the primary series and most current boosters when eligible until the bivalent boosters are authorized for this age group. With the rise in hospitalizations among those ages 0– 4 years old, parents of young children are particularly encouraged to get their children vaccinated.

DPH strongly encourages everyone 12 and older to get their bivalent booster as soon as they are eligible, and well in advance of any possible surge in the late fall or winter. Individuals may also get a booster at the same time as they get their annual flu vaccine, but it is recommended to do so in different arms. Bivalent boosters are available at DPH clinics, many pharmacies, Federally Qualified Health Centers and some community events. You can find a list of locations at de.gov/getmyvaccine. or at vaccines.gov. More details on the bivalent booster can be found at de.gov/boosters.

The webpage also has a link to a flier for the public which highlights some similarities between the labels of bivalent boosters and some primary series vaccines. Those getting a booster are encouraged to print and take a copy of the flier with them, or pull it up on their phone’s web browser, and ask the vaccine provider to show you the vial that your bivalent booster is being drawn from so you can confirm it is the correct one. It is an important step in being an educated health consumer and advocate for your personal health.

The below data is as reported on Delaware’s My Health Community data portal on Thursday, Sept. 15, 2022.

COVID-19 Cases and Hospitalizations:

• Total positive cases since March 11, 2020: 305,517*
• 7-day daily average of new positive cases: 196.1, a decrease of 83.3 average new positive cases reported since Aug 18, 2022
• 7-day daily average for the percentage of total positive tests: 12.5 percentage points, a decrease of 5.9 percentage points reported since Aug 18, 2022
• Hospitalizations: 121 current hospitalizations; critically ill: 14
• Total COVID-19 deaths: 3,080, an increase of 44 since last month (11 regularly reported, and 33 from a review of Vital Statistics between June and August)

*Case and testing data are based on reporting of lab-confirmed COVID-19 tests only. The number of COVID-19 cases in the community is higher than what is reported because of the use of at-home test kits.

COVID-19 Vaccinations:

• Total number of doses administered in Delaware: 1,893,787
• Percentage of Delawareans 5+ who are fully vaccinated (CDC data): 75.1%
• Percentage of Delawareans 12+ who are fully vaccinated (CDC data): 79.2%
• Percentage of Delawareans 18+ who are fully vaccinated (CDC data): 80.7%
• Percent of Delawareans who are fully vaccinated (CDC data): 70.9%

All qualifying Delawareans should get vaccinated. For a location near you, visit de.gov/getmyvaccine.. Delaware’s latest COVID-19 vaccination statistics can be found under the Vaccine Tracker dashboard at de.gov/healtycommunity

COVID-19 Case Vaccination Status Report:

The following reports capture a weekly breakdown of non-boosted cases, deaths, and hospitalizations for the time frame of Sep 5– Sep 11, 2022.

Non-boosted: Case– Hospital– Death

Weekly Overview (09/05/22– 09/11/22)	# of Non-boosted Cases
Total Non-boosted	886
Total Cases	1288
Percent of Non-boosted Cases	64%

Non-boosted Hospitalized cases	# of Cases
Total Non-boosted Hospitalized Cases	84
Total Hospitalized Cases	136
Percent of Non-boosted Cases	61%

Non-boosted Deaths	# of Cases
Total Non-boosted Deaths	0
Total COVID-19 Deaths	1
Percent of Non-boosted Deaths	0%

Note:

Case and Hospitalization Count: based on RTS (Report to State Date)

Death: based on DoD (Date of Death)

Long-term Care Statistics:

As of Thursday, September 15, 2022, there have been a total of 4,573 positive COVID-19 cases involving long-term care residents, and 979 residents of Delaware long-term care facilities have died from complications related to COVID-19.

Resources:

Individuals with general questions about COVID-19 should call Delaware 2-1-1, individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing can text their ZIP code to 898-211, or email delaware211@uwde.org. Hours of operation are:

• Monday– Friday: 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
• Saturday: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Medically related questions regarding testing, symptoms, and health-related guidance can be submitted by email at DPHCall@delaware.gov.

DPH will continue to update the public as more information becomes available. For the latest on Delaware’s response, go to de.gov/coronavirus.

Anyone who is deaf, hard of hearing, Deaf-Blind or speech disabled can contact DPH by dialing 711 first using specialized devices (i.e. TTY, TeleBraille, voice devices). The 711 service is free and to learn more about how it works, please visit delawarerelay.com.

DPH, a division of DHSS, urges Delawareans to make healthier choices with the 5-2-1 Almost None campaign: eat 5 or more fruits and vegetables each day, have no more than 2 hours of recreational screen time each day (includes TV, computer, gaming), get 1 or more hours of physical activity each day, and drink almost no sugary beverages.

Delaware Health and Social Services is committed to improving the quality of the lives of Delaware’s citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations.