Today’s update includes the designation of pregnant women as part of the “at risk” group for COVID-19 and the Governor’s plans to stockpile PPE in preparation for rising cases of the virus in Indiana. 

HEALTH

On April 1, 2020, The Indiana State Department of Health stressed that pregnant women are now part of the “at risk” group. By placing pregnant women in the “at risk” group, it moves them up on the priority list for testing if they begin to show symptoms of COVID-19. Allowing pregnant women to get tested sooner will hopefully help mitigate any damage or further damage by the virus to both mother and baby.

Although pregnant women are now in the “at risk” group, they will still be permitted to have their significant others in the delivery room as planned, unless the significant other is displaying any symptoms of the virus. However, no visitors beyond the significant other will be allowed. These efforts are necessary to protect both mother and baby as well as prevent the spread of COVID-19 by keeping visitors away from anyone who has contracted the virus.

SUPPLIES

COVID-19 is now in 83 counties across Indiana and, just like in many states, protective medical gear is running critically low. The Indiana State Department of Health (“ISDH”) announced that it has been able to fill any personal protective equipment and other equipment requests from Indiana hospitals, but they are working on stockpiling as much personal protective gear as possible. Their goal is to be prepared as the surge of COVID-19 cases in Indiana begins.