Morristown VA Increases Protocols As COVID Cases Rise

MORRISTOWN, NJ — With COVID-19's presence rising again, stricter protocols, including social distancing, have been reinstated at all VA New Jersey Health Care System sites and clinics, including the Morristown location.

Based on the CDC's Community Transmission levels — which are based on new COVID-19 cases and the percentage of positive tests — the Morristown clinic is adjusting its COVID-19 safety protocols.

Within the last week, Morris County reported an increase of 1,705 confirmed positive tests. Earlier this month, New Jersey reported 5,309 confirmed positive tests, the most since the winter omicron wave in late January.

Read more: 'High' COVID Risk In Morris County, Masks Recommended Indoors

The VHA COVID-19 Health Protection Level is currently high and will be updated as needed on Mondays.

"Our local Veterans are resolute about receiving their care at our facility and we want to keep them safe during the ups and downs of COVID-19 community spread, said John A. Griffith, Acting Executive Medical Center Director. "Instead of increasing or decreasing access to care, safety protocols will be adjusted based on COVID-19 levels in the community."

Masks are required regardless of the level, but requirements for self-screening, visitation, and physical distancing vary.

The new requirements include:

• Masks are required
• Screening is self-required
• Care team-approved visitors only
• Physical distancing is required

COVID-19 cases in New Jersey have steadily increased throughout May, but COVID hospitalizations have remained stable.

In the previous week, the case rate in Morris County was 453.4 people per 100,000. However, only 48 people per 100,000 in Morris County were admitted to the hospital for COVID-19 in the previous week, accounting for only 2.6 percent of local hospital beds.

For questions and answers regarding the VHA COVID-19 Health Protection Levels, visit va.gov/coronavirus-veteran-frequently-asked-questions.