Changes are being made to our lives every day in response to the coronavirus pandemic. With shutdowns and suggested quarantines people are searching for answers and assistance.
Updates on these changes are being made to KyCovid19.Ky.Gov each day, in addition to the governors live address on Facebook at 5pm daily.
A COVID-19 hotline has also been created in order to answer any questions you may have (800) 722-5725. This is operated by healthcare professionals at the Ky Poison Control Center.
When to Seek Care
If you are experiencing mild symptoms of COVID-19 please stay home in order to avoid spreading this novel virus. If you have any questions about your symptoms or when to seek care, please call your local healthcare provider or health department.
Symptoms include:
- Fever
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
If you are sick and feel you have a medical emergency, please call your doctor or seek medical care. While healthcare providers are asking those with mild symptoms to stay home, they are prepared to care for those who need it.
Seek medical attention immediately if you are experiencing these symptoms:
- Difficulty breathing
- Persistent pain or pressure in your chest
- New confusion or inability to rouse
- Bluish tint to lips or face
Health Departments
Bullitt County Health Department 502-543-2415
These counties in central Kentucky are all part of the Lincoln Trail Health District and share the same website.
Hardin County Health Department 270-765-6196
Larue County Health Department 270-358-3844
Marion County Health Department 270-692-3393
Nelson County Health Department 502-348-3222
Washington County Health Department 859-336-3989
Louisville Metro Department of Public Health 502-574-6530
Unemployment
Thousands of Kentuckians temporarily lost their jobs when Governor Beshear ordered restaurants and bars to close to the public on March 16. In response to these closings several changes have been made to unemployment in order to help those who have been laid off, lost hours, or are quarantined due to the coronavirus. To apply for unemployment visit kcc.ky.gov or call 502-564-2900.
In a typical week the Kentucky unemployment office receives around 2,000 claims each week. However, on March 17 there were more than 9,000 claims in just a single day. In response to this great influx, a new alphabetized, staggered schedule has been implemented in order to reduce wait times and stress on the system.
Unemployment claims will be filed according to last name:
Sunday: A-D
Monday: E-H
Tuesday: I-L
Wednesday: M-P
Thursday: Q-U
Friday: V-Z
Non-profit organizations are also stepping up to help Kentuckians who are suffering financially from this pandemic. The Lee Initiative provides funding and meals for restaurant workers who have lost their job. You can call the Lee Initiative at 502-636-0783, they are also available on their website and a Facebook page.
Services
You may apply for Medicaid by calling the Kentucky Healthcare Customer Service line at 855-459-6328. For more information on Medicaid visit Department for Medicaid Services.
Public assistance programs can be applied for on the Benefind website or by calling 855-306-8959.
Community food pantries are still working hard to serve those in the community that are food insecure. Protocol and hours of operation continue to change as our situation evolves. Bread for Life Community Food Pantry in Bardstown is updating their Facebook daily to ensure everyone that needs their services can get them. Bread for Life can also be reached by phone at 502-348-7270
Here are their operating hours as of March 20, 2020
Monday 9am-3pm
Tuesday 9am-3pm
Wednesday – Closed
Thursday 9am-5:30pm
Friday 9am-3:30pm
Saturday – Closed
They will also be handing out senior citizen commodity boxes at the Nelson County Fairgrounds on March 25.
St. Matthews Area Ministries is now open by appointment only on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday. Call 502-893-5704 to schedule an appointment or visit their Facebook for more information.
If these food banks do not service your area but you are in need of food assistance visit Dare to Care or give them a call at 502-966-3821.
Reporting Issues
If you have witnessed price gouging during this crisis, contact the Office of the Attorney General Consumer Protection hotline at 888-432-9257 or fill out this online form.
In an effort to increase social distancing, Governor Beshear has ordered non-essential businesses to close their doors to the public. However, several businesses throughout the state have refused to comply. If you see a business not complying with health and safety recommendations please report them by calling 1-833-KY-SAFER or (833)-597-2337
Information on COVID-19
The CDC’s website is the best resource for information on staying healthy, caring for the sick, and general information on COVID-19.
