If You Suffer From Chronic Pain and Have Thought About Suicide as A Way Out – You are Not Alone and There is Hope for a Better Life
Learn ways to manage suicide risk factors and 6 strategies for improving your quality of life.
Kelly Norris MA, LPC – Kelly Norris Counseling & Psychotherapy, LLC
If you or a loved one is in crisis or experiencing suicidal thoughts, call Colorado Crisis Services at (844) 493-8255 or text “TALK” to 38255. In case of imminent danger or emergency, dial 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
Living with chronic pain can really wear on a person emotionally and may even feel unbearable. It is easy to become frustrated, and for that frustration to develop into despair, hopelessness, and depression. It may not be surprising, then, that chronic pain sufferers may be at an increased risk of having suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Those suffering from chronic pain often experience co-occurring problems which are also associated with increased risk for suicide. These include depression, anxiety, sleep problems, social isolation, unemployment, and financial problems.
Chronic pain can cause significant disruption and impact almost every aspect of a person’s life. It’s not just the pain itself that chronic pain sufferers have to deal with, but also the secondary effects of the pain or illness on things like sleep, mood, concentration, mobility, energy, stress levels, and so on. On top of that, there could be unwanted side effects from medications and other medical interventions intended to treat pain and medical conditions. The impact on a person’s life can be significant and extensive, impacting just about every area of life, including (but not limited to): work, school, relationships, hobbies, exercise, and recreation.
Chronic pain can become so debilitating, that it may no longer be possible to work or continue with school. This major life change can be experienced as a deep and painful loss and can bring about difficult feelings such as grief, sadness, shame, worthlessness, hopelessness, and helplessness. Financial insecurity can add a great deal of stress on top of all of this, and increased dependence on others may lead to feeling like a burden on those who provide support. Unemployment, depression, hopelessness, worthlessness, and feeling like a burden are all risk factors for suicidality. It is possible to have a meaningful and purposeful life with a disability. Consider what is most important to you, your values and passions, and find a way to feasibly incorporate these things into your life. For example, my mom loved her rescue dogs and cared greatly about animal welfare. She was in severe, chronic pain, and was barely able to move on her own. Though her hands were nearly paralyzed, she was still able to go on Facebook, using her mobile phone, and help an animal rescue organization connect pets with foster families and forever homes. This was something that was very near to her heart, and it allowed her to make a positive impact, all from bed.
When you don’t feel well so much of the time, it can be hard to socialize and maintain relationships. It can feel lonely if others don’t seem to understand what you are going through, especially when you have an “invisible” illness instead of an obvious disability. You may also start to feel a burden on other people. These things may prompt you to withdraw from loved ones and become isolated. However, it is extremely important to maintain a strong support network, surrounding yourself with at least a few loved ones who are understanding and supportive. We lean on other people to help us get through difficult times. We tend to be happier and more emotionally resilient when we have quality relationships, and we may even feel better when we are in the company of those we love. On the other hand, a limited or lacking support system may increase our risk for depression and suicidal thoughts/actions. Joining a support group can help to build your social support network while meeting others who understand what it is like to live with chronic pain. You can search the internet for online support communities that offer zoom teleconference meetings. One example is PainConnection.org.
It is possible to create a life that is worth living, even with chronic pain. There are many things that you can do to better manage, cope with and even reduce your pain. Listed below are just a few suggestions. This is not medical advice nor is it a substitute for professional medical or psychiatric advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Never ignore professional medical advice in seeking treatment because of something you have read in this article. In case of mental health or medical emergency, dial 911 immediately.
- Mindfulness Meditation: Research suggests that practicing mindfulness meditation can significantly reduce the intensity of physical pain. This relief is often immediate and enduring. You can find more information, and a guided 10-minute meditation for pain management, by visiting this post from Headspace. The Headspace mobile app offers a great introductory module for beginners to mindfulness meditation. This kind of meditation can bring about improvements in other areas besides physical pain, such as mood, relaxation, sleep and concentration, and it can help to reduce anxiety, depression, anger and other difficult emotions. Check out the list of Resources at the end of this article for more information and recommendations, including a free online mindfulness course offered by Monash University.
- Progressive Muscle Relaxation (PMR): Progressive Muscle Relaxation (PMR) is another technique with many possible benefits, including pain relief, stress/anxiety reduction, and improved sleep. There are tons of guided practices that you can find through an online search. Be sure to discuss with your doctor before starting this practice.
- Prioritize Self-Care: Do at least one thing a day that brings joy or pleasure. Read or listen to a book, enjoy some music, bask in the sun, write a thank-you note – whatever works for you. Make time to relax. Practice deep breathing or another relaxation technique that helps you to ease tension in your body and mind. Releasing tension in your body, as much as you are able, can help to alleviate some of the pain. If you are interested in learning relaxation techniques for pain management, check out the Resources section below.
- Utilize Your Support Network: Create a support system of people you love and trust, whom you can turn to and depend on to be there for you. Utilize your supports. If you are feeling sad, lonely, depressed, frustrated, hopeless […] whatever you’re feeling, if you need support, reach out! Even if you don’t quite feel comfortable opening up, or you’re afraid that you are going to inconvenience someone or scare them away, or you just feel like being alone. Don’t let fears and assumptions get in the way of getting the support that you need. The people that love you want to be there for you. If you don’t have much of a support network, build one. Join a chronic pain support group – You Are Not Alone. It can be beneficial to share with and learn from others dealing with chronic pain, in a safe and mutually supportive environment. Consider engaging in an online support community, such as PainConnection.org.
- Keep a Gratitude Journal or Positive Journal: Keep a daily journal or log that focuses on positive things from that day (eg, what went well, what did you accomplish, what made you feel happy or loved) and/or things that you are grateful for. Write at least three things per day.Individual Therapy with a Licensed Mental Health Professional: This can be a source of support and a great way to learn effective skills for coping with chronic pain, as well as any emotional distress or life disruptions that go along with it. If you are feeling depressed or have thought about suicide, tell your doctor and get connected with a therapist as soon as possible. Please know that there is hope for a better future.
If you or a loved one is in crisis or experiencing suicidal thoughts, call Colorado Crisis Services at (844) 493-8255 or text “TALK” to 38255. In case of imminent danger or emergency, dial 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
Resources for Understanding & Managing Chronic Pain
- Inner Health Studio: Pain Relief: Techniques for Pain Management and Pain Reduction
- SPINE-health from Veritas Health, LLC: Chronic Pain Coping Techniques and How to Stop Your Pain with Your Mind
- Goop: Understanding—and Treating—the Emotional and Physical Roots of Chronic Pain
- Tame the Beast and Useful Resources
- PsychCentral: Using Mindfulness to Approach Chronic Pain and 8 Ways You and Your Partner can Deal with Chronic Pain and Illness
- Monash University – Free Online Mindfulness Course: Mindfulness for Wellbeing and Peak Performance
- This Way Up: The Chronic Pain Course
- Permission to Move: Online Pain Recovery Coaching
- Pain Connection: National Support Groups for Chronic Pain
- Headspace: Meditation App and Meditation for Pain
THE NUMBER 1 KILLER OF COLORADO’S CHILDREN…
Did you know suicide is the leading cause of death for the Children of Colorado? Earlier this year, Children’s Hospital Colorado declared a “State of Emergency” in youth mental health. This mental health crisis is felt even more acutely in rural communities of Colorado due to limited resources in these areas.
MENTAL ILLNESS PLAGUES OUR NATION
Nationally suicide is the second leading cause of death for people ages 10-34, the fourth leading cause of death for those 34-54 of age, and amongst those 45-54 years old, it is the fifth leading cause of death. In the United States, every 11 minutes someone dies by suicide. Mental illness plagues a significant percentage of Americans every year. It is estimated that 1 out of 4 Americans struggles with depression each year. Of that 25% of Americans struggling with depressive symptoms, only 50% of them receive treatment. Furthermore, of those who do receive treatment through psychotherapy and/or medication, 80-90% find success in treating their depressive symptoms! Depression does not have to lead to suicide.
THE MYSTERIOUS SUICIDE BELT
Perhaps some of you have heard of the mysterious “suicide belt”. For those of you who have not, it is a mixture of Western states that have significantly higher rates of suicide than other states. The states referred to as the suicide belt typically include: Colorado, Utah, Arizona, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, and Wyoming. There are varying opinions and ideas as to why suicide rates are higher in these areas. Some ideas include easier access to firearms, more loneliness secondary to transient communities, impacts of higher altitude, etc. Suicide rates are also notably high in Colorado mountain towns. Again, there are varying opinions regarding higher suicide rates in mountain communities, but suggestions include the inability to maintain a steady and well-paying job, turning to the drug and alcohol scene, and difficulties making social connections in transient communities.
SUICIDE IS PREVENTABLE, LETS BRING AWARENESS
To many, these statistics are surprising and upsetting as Suicide is Preventable. Changing the narrative around mental health, addressing the stigma surrounding mental illness, and promoting education around protective factors are key elements to suicide prevention. In addition, providing individual and community support has become increasingly important to those struggling with mental illness. September is National Suicide Prevention Month, and as a community, Grand County came together to host the Suicide Awareness Hike. This event was organized to raise awareness for suicide prevention and provide support to those who have lost a loved one. The Suicide Awareness Hike was held on Sunday, September 12th, from 2p-5p at Snow Mountain Ranch Leggett Building. This was the first event of its kind in Grand County, and hopefully the first of many annual events. The event included an easy hike, tables with resources and support, music, free food and drinks, and opportunities to remember loved ones and reflect on mental health.
Whether we work together within our own community, together as a state, or more largely within our country, it has become loud and clear that we need to work together to help those that are suffering. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline has a few helpful suggestions to help prevent suicide, as we head into our National Suicide Prevention Month:
#BeThe1ToAsk- research shows that asking someone about their suicidal thoughts actually decreased their suicidal ideation and provided the person relief
#BeThe1ToBeThere- listening to someone who is feeling depressed helps lessen their depressive symptoms, decrease suicidal ideation, and allows the individual to feel more hopeful
#BeThe1ToHelpThemConnect- helping a depressed individual create a network of support helps reduce feelings of hopelessness
Suicide is preventable, yet it is the number one killer of kids in Colorado and the number two killer of kids and young adults in the United States. As a community, let’s come together to continue to raise awareness and support for those struggling with mental illness and those who have lost a loved one to mental illness. #GrandCountyStrong
– Amanda Farrell, PMHNP
Whether you have struggled with suicide yourself or have lost a loved one, you are not alone. With a community of resources available 24/7/365, free, confidential help is available through phone, chat, or text.
If you have been following our Covid-19 Updates here or have just discovered this blog, please now visit Grand County Rural Health Network’s Blog for updates: https://gcruralhealth.org/blog/
February 26, 2021
Information shared from Grand Country Public Health https://www.co.grand.co.us/COVID19
New Demographic Data
In an effort to provide more demographic data on COVID Positive cases from Grand County residents, Grand County Public Health (GCPH) has added a new page to its COVID Dashboard. The “COVID Positives by Classification” page can be accessed by clicking the “View Additional Statistics” link under the pie chart in the lower-left corner of the COVID Dashboard. The data includes all Grand County resident COVID positives since March 2020 summarized by Age, City of Residence, Gender, Ethnicity, Race, and Type of COVID test performed (PCR, antigen, etc…) and will be updated once a week on Saturdays.
County & State Vaccine Dashboards
At the beginning of February, Grand County updated its COVID Dashboard to include vaccine data. The current data includes vaccine doses administered by all local providers, including Safeway in Fraser and City Market in Granby. Reports are updated each Tuesday and include both 1st and 2nd doses.
The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) has also created a vaccine data dashboard that includes county-level vaccine administration data in beta. The goal of the expanded data dashboard is part of the state’s commitment to prioritize data transparency throughout the COVID-19 response, to inform an equitable vaccine distribution process, and ensure accountability. The State’s new beta version of the county-level vaccine administration includes: Number of doses administered, Number of doses administered per 100,000 population, Doses distributed (sent to providers in the county), Doses distributed per 100,000 people, and the Difference between percent of doses distributed and percent of the state population.
Please note that the CDPHE Vaccine Dashboard reports data by an individual’s primary county of residence regardless of where their shot was given. Conversely, Grand County’s data is reported as the number of doses given in this county regardless of the patient’s home address. Thus, if trying to compare the dashboards, please take these differences into account.
Lastly, until the COVID vaccine is widely available and a level of community immunity is achieved, it is imperative that everyone keeps following public health protocols and protective measures to mitigate this virus–wear a mask, physically distance, avoid gatherings, stay home when you’re sick, and wash your hands.
County Dial Status
While we have improved on our dial status, we are not out of the woods yet. We are approaching the Spring Break season and foresee that larger numbers of tourists will be coming into the county. Therefore, we need to stay vigilant in our efforts to curb the spread.
The great work by the community to help stop the spread has allowed us to lift the red dial level restrictions. GCPH will continue to monitor our case rates and positivity. We will also continue to assess our ability to lessen restrictions. We need to have at least a 7 day trend in either direction prior to adjusting our capacities. We will take into account disease activity throughout the county, numbers of individuals on quarantine, anticipated dIsease events, and the potential strain bouncing back and forth between levels can put on businesses and event planning.
PHO Extension
On Thursday, February 25, Grand County Public Health signed an Extension Order of the June 26, 2020, Standing Public Health Order. The extension expands the Standing PHO’s authority through April 30, 2021. The June 26th Standing Public Health Order authorizes Best Overarching and Activity-Specific Protective Measures detailed in the Grand County COVID Suppression Plan and Playbooks. The Order also continues the requirement that all businesses, events, and activities in Grand County complete the Compliance Verification Form.
Colorado Exposure Notifications
For a while now, Colorado has been promoting its Colorado Exposures Notification App for iPhone and Android users. The app allows users to be notified when another user they have been near within the past 14-days tests positive for COVID-19. The Exposure Notifications only work if both people have the app installed and Bluetooth is turned on, and the individual who tested positive chooses to initiate the push notification service to potentially exposed users.
Because the push notification will not identify who, when, or where you were potentially exposed, GCPH advises that if you have been diligent about COVID protective measures and you get a notification about potential exposure, that you should monitor for symptoms, continue all best protective measures, and get tested at one of our free antigen testing sites. If you have not been diligent about masking, washing hands, distancing, limiting gatherings, and staying home when sick, you should follow standard quarantine protocols in addition to getting tested.
February 21, 2021
Information shared from Grand Country Public Health https://www.co.grand.co.us/COVID19
GRAND COUNTY, CO – On February 21, 2021, Grand County Public Health (GCPH) issued an Amendment Authorization Order to the June 26, 2020 Standing Public Health Order that officially terminated the February 12, 2021 Temporary Amendment Order. That order had placed temporary heightened restrictions on specific businesses and activities from February 13 through February 26, 2021. The termination order goes into effect tomorrow morning, February 22, 2021 at 8am.
After being named the county with the second highest transmission rate in the State of Colorado, by the second week in February, Grand County Public Health had a difficult decision to make. It was time to move into Level Red restrictions based on Governor Polis’ new Dial 2.0 framework. The options were to either move the entire county into Level Red restrictions or just the portion of the county with the highest disease activity. After noting a significant disease trend throughout the Fraser and Winter Park area, including a major outbreak at Winter Park Resort, GCPH elected to institute targeted restrictions related to specific businesses and activities determined to be high transmission sources.
As alluded to in the February 13th press release, investigations of COVID outbreak cases linked back to 2 specific businesses that were asked to pivot to curbside. These businesses asked for transparency with public health. The investigation has been fully completed and vetted and revealed that 11 patron and 1 employee cases were linked to those 2 businesses in Fraser and Winter Park.
Fortunately, thanks to a steady decline in new COVID cases over the last week, Grand County dropped to Level Orange metrics on February 18, 2021. This persistent decrease has given Public Health Director Abbie Baker the assurance that our numbers are moving in the right direction and that the temporary Red restrictions were no longer needed.
Ms. Baker commented, “It was the Governor’s intent with the new Dial, and its 7-day metrics as opposed to the previous 14-day metrics, to allow counties to move more swiftly in and out of higher level restrictions based on current disease trends. That is exactly what we did.”
With the termination of the Temporary PHO, all businesses, events, and activities in Grand County are now in Level Orange capacities.
If our numbers continue to decline, Grand County may soon have the opportunity to institute the GrandStar program. GrandStar is a state-approved variation of Colorado’s “5 Star” Certified Business Variance Program that allows businesses to expand operations by implementing safety measures beyond what is already required by public health orders and guidelines to help slow the spread of COVID-19. Once active, the GrandStar Program will allow businesses that achieve and maintain the 5-star certification to operate with capacities at one level lower than the County’s current level of restrictions. For example, certified GrandStar restaurants will be able to operate at Level Yellow capacities when other restaurants in the county are limited to Level Orange capacities. The Winter Park Chamber of Commerce is currently spearheading the GrandStar efforts and is limiting applications to restaurants and gyms in the Fraser Valley area, but the hope is that other chambers and towns will soon join in to expand the program across the county. To learn more about GrandStar, visit https://www.playwinterpark.com/grandstar.
February 19, 2021
Information shared from Grand Country Public Health https://www.co.grand.co.us/COVID19
So far, clinics in Grand County have administered around 3,425 doses as of early this week. These totals include 1st and 2nd doses.
Grand County is currently vaccinating phases 1A, 1B.1 and 1B.2. Unfortunately, due to the inconsistent vaccine deliveries and limited vaccine supply, it is taking longer to vaccinate all eligible individuals than we would like. Furthermore, because we are now over a month into the vaccine distribution process, our local providers are also having to balance the need for both 1st and 2nd doses in each vaccine shipment. Accordingly, we ask for your patience in getting an appointment, and we will reach out to you when we have a vaccine for you.
Regarding second doses, the CDC states that 2nd doses of COVID-19 Vaccine may be administered 28 to 42 days post 1st vaccination. We will work to make sure you receive your 2nd dose within that time frame. Nevertheless, if you received your 1st vaccine in Grand County, the provider you received your 1st vaccine at will contact you when they have a 2nd dose available for you. You do not need to call them to be scheduled, they will call you.
The Grand County Individual Vaccine Registration Form remains the best way to get your name on the list to be vaccinated locally. The local providers have access to this list and check it regularly to see who is registering under their clinic. Especially for Middle Park Health and Grand County Public Health, you do not need to be a patient of theirs to register for a vaccine from them.
If you are looking for alternate ways to get the vaccine and are not opposed to traveling, please note that COVID vaccines do not need to be given in your county of residence. If you are willing and able, and you meet the phase qualifications, you may go to the front range to get a vaccine. Various pharmacies, such as Walgreens, CVS, Safeway, and King Soopers, are offering vaccine appointments. In fact, our local City Market may have vaccine appointments available. Please keep in mind that you should, if at all possible, get your 2nd dose at the same location you got your 1st dose. This is imperative if you get the Pfizer vaccine as Grand County does not offer the Pfizer vaccine.
It is also important to note that vaccine shipments have been delayed due to extreme weather in the last week across the nation. This has impacted many organizations’ ability to plan and distribute vaccines this week and possibly next week. Appointments will be made as soon as more vaccine is received.
Vaccine FAQ
To aid in answering common questions, Grand County Public Health has created a Vaccine FAQ. Middle Park Health has also created their own MPH Vaccine FAQ. Please check out these documents to quickly find the answers to some of our most common questions. If you have a question you believe should be included in the FAQ, please email [email protected].
Virtual Meetings
The COVID pandemic has been going for nearly a year now, and it is safe to say that we are all sick of it (no pun intended). That being said, the COVID-19 virus does not appear to be done with us just yet. Now is not the time to let our guard down and forget all the protective measures we have been implementing for so long that help us stay open.
Please remember to follow these basic protections wherever you go: masking, washing hands, social distancing, continuing to stay in small groups, limiting personal interaction between groups, not going out in public when we are sick.
Additionally, it is still best to meet virtually whenever possible. Small indoor, in-person events (including meetings) are allowed under Event Guidelines and with prior approval through Grand County’s Compliance Verification Form. However, if a virtual option is feasible, it should still be utilized as a means of promoting public health and safety as well as inclusivity of individuals who cannot, or wish not to, attend in person.
Scam Warning
A number of our at-risk community clients have been contacted by people saying that they are Grand County Public Health or the Grand County Rural Health Network, and that they needed the client’s Social Security Number and Debit Card information to get them a scheduled appointment for a COVID-19 vaccination. DO NOT GIVE OUT THIS INFORMATION and report the call to the Grand County Sheriff’s Office at 970-725-3343.
February 15, 2021
Information shared from Grand Country Public Health https://www.co.grand.co.us/COVID19
Fellow Residents:
I feel the need to clarify the actions taken by the Grand County Public Health Department (GCPH).
Our county has had sustained increased case counts since mid-January. Until the end of January, the cases were spread across the county. However, in the last few weeks, there has been a substantial trend of cases coming from Fraser and Winter Park residents.
With the sustained high transmission rates for Grand County, we were in a situation where we needed to move into Level Red restrictions for at least part of the county by Saturday, February 13. Fortunately, thanks to our lower hospitalization rates and our population being less than 20,000 residents, we had the opportunity to be selective with how we moved to Level Red restrictions.
With 70% of the cases in the last 14 days coming from Winter Park and Fraser, my initial proposal to the State (Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, CDPHE) was to focus Level Red restrictions in those towns with the highest transmission. Upon further analysis of case investigations, there were three specific locations in Fraser and Winter Park indicated as common sources of viral spread.
I proposed to the state that we use this data to focus our increased restrictions on only those locations where transmission is occurring, and they agreed to let us use this approach. Two of the three businesses are small, locally owned businesses. In an effort to maintain working relationships with those businesses, we opted not to call them out by name. They are not a threat to community health at this point in time. Those businesses have met the additional restrictions willingly and have not been asked to close. Local support resources have been applied to help these businesses survive the reduction in business. Thank you to the Town of Fraser, the Town of Winter Park, Winter Park/Fraser Police Department, Winter Park Resort, Winter Park Chamber of Commerce, and Dr. Darcy Selenke for contributing to these conversations and working with the public health department and local businesses.
While unconventional, this approach seemed a better alternative than implementing Level Red restrictions across the entire county and/or enforcing Level Red restrictions on all restaurants in Fraser and Winter Park. If this approach does not result in lower transmission rates for Grand County, there will be expansion of higher restrictions. Yet, if our case rates decline more rapidly than expected, there is also an opportunity to lift restrictions more quickly.
Public Health has been working with Winter Park Resort since before they opened in December to try to mitigate disease spread. Until recently, their efforts had the desired effect. They provide alternate isolation locations for positive cases, testing for employees, and have a robust contact tracing program. They are willing to terminate employees that are not cooperating with isolation or quarantine orders and have followed through. They have also implemented stricter policies in their employee housing with the same consequence of termination for non-compliance. Despite the Resort Management’s best efforts to contain the spread among employees, GCPH, in consultation with the State and Winter Park Resort, decided to declare an outbreak at the Resort not only to inform the community of the situation but also to provide increased support from the State on testing options, analysis of protocols, and containment efforts.
It is important to remember that our residents’ and visitors’ response to the containment protocols affects us all. Personal behaviors have a greater impact on our ability to open than business operations. I know our community can continue to pull together to get us through to recovery. I know we can do better – follow masking and distancing guidance, limit your exposures, get tested and stay home when you are sick, and when you are able to, get the vaccine.
I want to see us go from 2nd highest transmission in the State to one of the lowest as soon as possible. That depends on how we pull together and respond now. We can do this!
Your new Grand County Public Health Director,
Abbie Baker-MPH, CHES
February 12, 2021
Information shared from Grand Country Public Health https://www.co.grand.co.us/COVID19
GRAND COUNTY, CO – On February 12, 2021, Grand County Public Health (GCPH) issued a new Temporary Amendment Order to the June 26, 2020, Standing Public Health Order. The new temporary amendment reflects Level Red restrictions for target areas in Grand County that have seen high disease activity and recent outbreaks. These heightened restrictions are to be in effect from Saturday, February 13, 2021, at 12:01 am until Friday, February 26, 2021, at 11:59 pm. The Temporary Amendment Order includes the following:
- Temporarily amending Grand County Public Health Director’s June 26, 2020 Standing Public Health Order, and any previous amendments, from Saturday, February 13, 2021 at 12:01 am until Friday, February 26, 2021 at 11:59 pm.
- Activities to Be Amended and Updates to Playbook (note: these updates will be reflected in the relevant activity specific playbook and include the date of update):
- Playbook: Events Playbook; Activity: Update language to reflect restrictions on Indoor Events and Gatherings, not to include Worship. Update Indoor Event Specific Protective Measures to reflect that all indoor events, both public and private gatherings within the Town limits of Winter Park and the Town of Fraser shall cease unless operating under strict protective measures and approval through Grand County Public Health.
- Playbook: Restaurant Playbook; Activity: Update language to reflect restrictions on dining in. Update Restaurant Specific Protective Measures to reflect Level Red restrictions for The Winter Park Resort based restaurants and specific businesses identified as places where outbreak transmission had occurred in the Towns of Winter Park & Fraser. These businesses will move to take out, curbside, delivery, to go, or outdoor dining. Up to 5 members of the public are allowed inside at a time to pick up food or place an order, given specific precautions are taken by the facility to maintain a 6-foot distance. Outdoor dining is limited to one (1) household per group. Bars shall remain closed.
- Playbook: Quick Reference Chart; Activity: Update capacities and restrictions. To update capacities and restrictions for indoor events and gatherings and restaurant activities to reflect the above Activity Specific Protective Measures.
GCPH has determined that recent high disease activity and outbreaks can be attributed to community spread among individuals who are considered primary residents. Illness among visitors is not reflected in Grand County’s case counts. The goal of implementing these additional measures is to reduce Grand County’s rising case rates by targeting the areas where disease spread and recent outbreaks have been identified. We are focusing on where the greatest amounts of transmission are taking place in an effort to avoid further impacts on the county as a whole. During week two, transmission rate trends will be reassessed. If there is a notable downward trend and Level Orange rates have been achieved, Level Red restrictions will be lifted.
“I know that our community can do better and I want to challenge everyone to do whatever is necessary to move us to Level Blue because right now we are moving in the wrong direction. Only then can we be on the right path toward recovery.”, stated Abbie Baker, Grand County Public Health Director.
Winter Park Resort and other restaurants in the area have been proactive in implementing these measures in order to address the recent case trends and this Temporary Amendment Order serves to support their ongoing response. The businesses that will enact the pivot to curbside or outdoor service will not be specifically identified as the transmission occurred among local patrons. These businesses are working collaboratively with GCPH, taking extra measures to mitigate the transmission of disease and are committed to bringing down the case rates in the county. Businesses not targeted in this Amendment Order will continue their operations in accordance with all Level Orange restrictions, keeping public health and safety in mind. It will take the commitment of every sector of our community in order to get our case rates down.
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February 8, 2021
Information shared from Grand Country Public Health https://www.co.grand.co.us/COVID19
Joint Statement from Grand County Public Health and Winter Park Resort
GRAND COUNTY, CO – On the week of February 8, 2021, Grand County Public Health (GCPH) will be reporting to the state an outbreak at Winter Park Resort (WPR) among resort employees. This declaration allows more state resources to be pulled in to aid with suppressing COVID activity in the WPR employee group. WPR, GCPH and CDPHE will continue to monitor the outbreak until two incubation periods (28 days) have passed with no new outbreak-related COVID-19 positive cases. Through case investigations, it has been determined that these cases have not been traced back to transmission through interaction with visitors but, rather, from social gatherings outside of the workplace and congregate housing.
WPR has worked closely and been transparent with state and local public health authorities since the onset of the pandemic and in recent weeks to navigate these dynamic circumstances. WPR has an onsite testing site that they have managed since December and has consistently utilized GCPH testing sites as deemed necessary.
Throughout the past few months, WPR has implemented robust contact tracing among employees which has helped GCPH and a CDPHE contact tracing support team has been enlisted as needed during this outbreak. WPR has also enlisted a CDPHE epidemiology/hygiene consult to further investigate changes that could be made that could suppress COVID activity among employees.
CDPHE and WPR are proactively enacting protocols that allow more state resources to be used in aid of suppressing COVID-19 activity in the WPR employee group, including increased testing and this announcement. WPR, GCPH and the Grand County Board of Health (BOH) will utilize all local and state resources in order to address these cases and support the community.
It is important to remember that it is every individual’s personal and professional responsibility to make the right decisions and hold each other to the safest standards possible. Please continue to take preventative measures to protect yourself and others.
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