Overwhelmed by Case Road, Natrona County Health Department Reduces Contact Tracing | Casper

Forty-five residents of Natrona County have died from the virus. Some people are in their 50s and 60s, while others are young and might have lived for years without COVID-19, but doctors share anecdotally.

According to the county health department, 941 new COVID-19 cases were reported in the county last week.

Health Director Anna Kinder told the County Health Commission that she has hired 20 new employees this year, most of whom are currently working on contact tracing. However, the workload is still overwhelming. She told the Natrona County School District Board on Monday that the contact tracer had a telephone list of 800 people.

The department has created a web page for residents who test positive for COVID-19 and need documentation to exempt them from work and other activities. That website, casperpublichealth.org/i-tetsted-positive/Provides a FAQ tab and a way to request a quarantine letter. However, there is a disclaimer.

“Note that the dramatic increase in positive cases can delay the reporting and subsequent documentation of test results that may be required by employers, schools, etc.,” the site said. Stated. “CNCHD strives to contact positive cases as quickly as possible and provide the resources needed to stay home.”