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State of AlaskaCOVID-19 (Coronavirus) Information

COVID-19 Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to common questions from the Office of Governor Mike Dunleavy, Alaska Department of Health and Social Services, and Alaska Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management.

Print a PDF Copy of all of the Frequently Asked Questions Here.

Top Questions

Common Answers for Health Mandates & Topics

General FAQs

What is COVID-19?

A new virus, called a novel coronavirus, was first identified in Wuhan, Hubei Province, China in December 2019. The outbreak of the respiratory illness resulting from infection with the virus, called COVID-19, has since spread internationally and in the United States. Case counts are growing rapidly each day. The first case in the United States was announced on Jan. 21, 2020. The World Health Organization declared a global public health emergency on Jan. 30 and the United States declared a national public health emergency on Jan. 31. COVID-19 was declared a global pandemic by the WHO on March 11 and Governor Mike Dunleavy signed a statewide emergency declaration in Alaska that same day. Because this is a new strain of coronavirus, there is still much to learn and information changes rapidly. See the CDC Situation Summary at www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/cases-updates/summary.html

Is it like the flu?

No. While other coronaviruses cause a variety of respiratory illnesses, including the common cold, this is a new coronavirus, never before identified in humans.

How does COVID-19 spread?

It is believed that the primary methods of transmission are person-to-person spread and from contact with contaminated surfaces and objects. COVID-19 is very easily spread, even by people who do not have symptoms, which is why maintaining at least six feet of distance between people is so important.

What are the symptoms of COVID-19?

If you think you’ve been exposed to COVID-19 and develop a fever and symptoms such as cough or difficulty breathing, call your health care provider for medical advice. Illnesses from COVID-19 have ranged from mild symptoms to severe illness and death. The following symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure:
  • Fever
  • Cough
  • Fatigue
  • Shortness of breath
If you develop emergency warning signs for COVID-19 get medical attention immediately. Emergency warning signs include (list is not all inclusive):
  • Trouble breathing
  • Persistent pain or pressure in the chest
  • New confusion or inability to arouse
  • Bluish lips or face
See the CDC symptoms page for more information and to access an online symptom checker: www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/symptoms-testing/symptoms.html Providence Alaska Medical Center also has an online assessment tool at: www.providence.org/patients-and-visitors/coronavirus-advisory

How do I keep from getting the virus?

The science is definitive that maintaining six feet or more from other people will greatly diminish your risk of getting the virus. This, and washing your hands, not touching your face, and wiping down surfaces are the best public health guidance about preventing the spread of this virus. Since there are no current vaccination or antiviral treatments, the primary goal is to prevent getting the virus in the first place. Standing six feet away or more from others is the best way to do this.

How can you avoid getting sick?

The best way to prevent the transmission of respiratory infections, including COVID-19, is by practicing social distancing and good health hygiene.
  • Wash hands frequently, ideally with soap and warm water for 20 seconds. For homes without running water see Yukon-Kuskokwim Health Corporation’s recommendations for handwashing and disinfecting with household bleach: ykhc.org/covid-19-disinfection-without-running-water/
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
  • Avoid close contact with sick persons (keep a distance of at least six feet).
  • Clean surfaces with an EPA-registered low/intermediate level disinfectant; use gloves and wash hands after cleaning. See CDC recommendations for cleaning and disinfecting: cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prepare/cleaning-disinfection.html

Who is most at risk?

Older adults and people of any age who have serious underlying medical conditions may be at higher risk for more serious complications from COVID-19. The people who may be at higher risk of getting very sick from this illness include:
  • Older adults
  • People who have serious underlying medical conditions like:
    • Heart disease
    • Diabetes
    • Lung disease
Information about COVID-19 in children is somewhat limited, but the information that is available suggests that healthy children generally have mild symptoms. However, a small percentage of children have been reported to have more severe illness. Children and adults with serious chronic medical conditions are believed to be at higher risk, as well as older adults. To protect those at higher risk, it’s important that everyone practices healthy hygiene behaviors: www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prepare/prevention.html See the CDC Are You at Higher Risk for Severe Illness page at www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/specific-groups/high-risk-complications.html

What should you do if you think you’re sick?

If you’re sick with COVID-19 or suspect you are infected, you should take immediate steps to help prevent the disease from spreading to people in your home and community. Cover your coughs & sneezes and self-quarantine. Do not go into work or out in the public if you are ill with respiratory symptoms. Separate yourself from other people in your home as much as possible. See mandate 011 for more information about Alaska’s social distancing requirements: gov.alaska.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/03272020-SOA-COVID-19-Health-Mandate-011.pdf If you develop a fever, cough or difficulty breathing, call your health care provider for medical advice. More details about what to do if you’re sick, or caring for someone at your home who is sick, are here: www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/if-you-are-sick/ If you are at higher risk for serious illness from COVID-19 you should contact your health care provider early, even if your symptoms are mild.

What are Alaskans expected to do?

Mandates and recommendations are being issued daily at the state, municipal and local community levels in order to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in Alaska. Check with your local authorities for the most current guidance. State of Alaska health alerts and mandates are available on the covid19.alaska.gov website. The most important things Alaskans can do now are to: 1) protect themselves from becoming infected or infecting others; 2) avoid close contact with others; 3) stay home if sick and only to obtain or provide essential services; 4) cover coughs and sneezes; 5) wear a cloth face covering when out in public and wear a mask if sick or caring for someone who is sick (if they’re unable to wear a mask); and 6) clean and disinfect surfaces daily. See CDC’s Protect Yourself page at www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prepare/prevention.html

Should I wear a mask?

Alaska recommends wearing cloth face coverings in public settings, especially since recent studies show that the virus is often spread from people who aren’t experiencing symptoms. A mask will not necessarily prevent you from catching the virus. However, it will limit YOU from spreading the virus if you are infected, and reduce the projection of a sneeze or cough. For more information please see Alaska Health Alert 010: http://dhss.alaska.gov/dph/Epi/id/SiteAssets/Pages/HumanCoV/SOA_04032020_HealthAlert010_ClothFaceCoverings.pdf And CDC guidance: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/cloth-face-cover.html

What are the current health mandates and alerts in Alaska?

Health mandates are issued by Governor Dunleavy, Alaska’s Chief Medical Officer Dr. Anne Zink and DHSS Commissioner Adam Crum. They outline actions Alaskans are required to take. Health mandates at posted to the governor’s website at https://covid19.alaska.gov/health-mandates/ Health alerts are issued by Dr. Zink and Commissioner Crum. They provide strong recommendations for actions Alaskans should take. Health alerts are available on the COVID-19 website at https://covid19.alaska.gov/health-alerts/

How can I get a test for COVID-19?

Testing is becoming more readily available across the state. Currently, only those who have been referred by their doctor are eligible to be tested. You can read the current testing guidance for providers testing here: dhss.alaska.gov/dph/Epi/id/SiteAssets/Pages/HumanCoV/AKCOVIDTestingGuidance.pdf If you feel sick, have been traveling, or believe you’ve been in contact with someone exposed to the coronavirus, call your health care provider and tell them about your symptoms and exposure. They will decide whether you need to be tested, but keep in mind there is no treatment for COVID-19 and people who are mildly ill may be able to isolate and care for themselves at home. Please do not visit a doctor’s office, clinic or hospital emergency room without calling ahead to assure the health of all patients.

What can I do to help manage my stress and anxiety?

Many people are experiencing feelings of distress and anxiety due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The evolving and long-term nature of this situation puts everyone under a great deal of stress for an extended period of time. Please know you are not alone, and there are things you can do and resources to help you through this time. If you feel overwhelmed with emotions like sadness, depression or anxiety; feel like you want to harm yourself; or just need someone to talk to, please reach out. If you’re worried about someone and not sure if they need help, it’s ok to just ask!
  • In an emergency, call 9-1-1
  • Careline Alaska, Alaska’s suicide prevention and “someone to talk to” line is available 24/7 at 877-266-4357 (HELP) and is free and confidential; or text 4help to 839863 between 3-11 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday.
  • Disaster Distress Helpline is available at 800-985-5990 or text TalkWithUs to 66746. TTY 800-846-8517
Remember, while staying up-to-date with the news is important, constantly reading about COVID-19 may make you feel nervous, anxious and stressed out. Instead of staying glued to your news feeds, consider scheduling times during your day to check the news and social media and then take a break from watching, reading, or listening to news stories and do activities to support yourself. Go for a walk or get some exercise, make time to unwind and do activities that you enjoy, and connect with friends (while practicing physical distancing).

I am homeless or at risk of losing my housing.  Where can I go for a place to stay?

Although people experiencing homelessness are exempted from the requirement to remain in their residence, there are ongoing efforts to provide temporary housing. See the list of Community Resources for Food and Shelter at the end of this document.

I do not feel safe staying at my residence. Who can I call?

If you are experiencing an imminent threat to your physical safety, please call 911. See the list of Domestic Violence Shelters and Crisis Lines at the end of this document.  

What type of counseling resources are available to state employees?

Most state employees and their families have access to an Employee Assistance Program (EAP). EAPs typically offer confidential assessments, counseling, referrals and other services and information to employees and their families free of charge. Your EAP can support you as you tackle health and well-being issues, including COVID-19 related anxiety; they are geared to provide assistance with difficulties you might encounter at work, family or personal relationship problems, stress, depression, grief, addiction and recovery, and more. AlaskaCare Members (ACOA, APEA, AVTECTA, CEA, IBU, MEBA, TEAME, and Exempt Employees) ASEA Health Trust Members (GGU and PSEA Employees) For MMP Members
  • Call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to talk to a professional counselor: 1-877-234-5151
  • More information at: lifeworks.com
    • Company name: MMP
    • Password: 5100

Who can I call for more information?

If you are sick, think you’ve been exposed to COVID-19, or want to know if you should be tested, call your health care provider. Please call ahead before you go into a clinic, doctor’s office or emergency room. If you don’t have a health care provider, contact your local Public Health Center: http://dhss.alaska.gov/dph/Nursing/Pages/locations.aspx Alaska 2-1-1 is a great resource to answer your general questions about COVID-19 and to assist with other needs such as school closures, loss of jobs, and more. But please know that it is NOT a screening tool. For Alaskans who live in areas where 2-1-1 can’t be accessed, you can call 800-478-2221. You may also find answers to your questions on the DHSS website, coronavirus.alaska.gov, or on your official local websites. We know these are difficult and uncertain times. Please be patient and kind with everyone.

With schools closed, what types of resources are there for parents?

Check with your child’s school and school district as they are bringing distance learning options online for students. DHSS’ Play Every Day Campaign is also providing tips and ideas on how to keep kids active and healthy while social distancing. Visit the Play Every Day webpage at dhss.alaska.gov/dph/PlayEveryDay/Pages/ and follow them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/playeverydayAK/

Is there anything else Alaskans can do?

Share facts, not rumors! Seek out reputable sources online and on social media and share their information with your friends, family and networks. Here are just a few good places to start:

I work for a municipal or Tribal government. Do I need to submit a plan?

The requirement to submit a protective plan only applies to private sector businesses. There is no requirement for federal, state, local or Tribal government organizations to submit a plan for review. The expectation is that government agencies are enacting all appropriate measures to safeguard their workforce, and prevent the potential spread of the virus between communities in Alaska. Please ensure all of your employees and vessels are following the guidance of the Governor’s health mandates and alerts as well as your internal protective measures: gov.alaska.gov/home/covid19-healthmandates/

Where can I find economic relief resources for businesses?

Here are several places where you can find resources for businesses:

Where can I find economic relief resources for individuals?

Please visit the Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Development for the most up-to-date information related to the COVID-19 pandemic:

How does this affect my PFD?

On April 9, 2020, Governor Dunleavy signed into law SB 241, which extends two important protections for Alaskans during this public health emergency:
  1. The deadline to file for your PFD has been extended to April 30, 2020.
  2. If you’ve been out of state for an extended time due to COVID-related reasons, you may still be eligible for the PFD if you notify the commissioner of the Alaska Department of Revenue or the commissioner’s designee that you expect to be absent from the state for a continuous period on or after March 11, 2020.
Read SB 241 at www.akleg.gov/PDF/31/Bills/SB0241Z.PDF. Visit the Permanent Fund Division for more information at pfd.alaska.gov.

Your page does not tell us the specifics of positive cases.  Are you going to give detailed information, such as where infected people work or live?  Why isn’t information given by zip code?

We want to keep Alaskans as informed as possible on COVID-related issues.  Part of this process involves hard work by the epidemiology team to investigate and trace all contacts by a person who tests positive so that anyone at risk can be notified. We cannot disclose protected health information of individual people.  Part of respecting all Alaskans is respecting the lives of Alaskans who have tested positive for this virus, and not putting them at unnecessary risk by disclosing personal information. Because we are a HIPAA compliant organization, we cannot report information for towns or villages with <1,000 residents.  Geographic information at a granular level in combination with other information that we report may inadvertently identify a patient.  This is to protect the privacy and confidentiality of patients. For information about inadvertently identifying persons – please visit HIPPA for more information about the legal and ethical reasons we protect people’s rights to privacy. Please be assured that when there is information that is vital to preventing spread, we will share what is needed.  

COVID-19 Health Mandates

COVID-19 infections are continuing to spread across the country and Alaska. In an effort to slow the spread of the virus and prevent our health care system from being overwhelmed, Alaska is taking steps now.

Why are the mandates so important?

Mandates are only issued if, after careful consideration, they are deemed necessary to protect the lives of Alaskans. These mandates are designed to prevent the spread of COVID-19, which can cause severe illness and death, even in an individual of any age without underlying conditions.  They are also designed to protect the ability of Alaskans to access medical care for non-COVID reasons.

What if someone isn’t complying with the mandates?

Alaskans are expected to comply with all mandates.  These measures have been put in place to flatten the COVID-19 curve and protect the health of all Alaskans. Alaskans who disregard the mandates are putting themselves and their communities at risk. To report non-compliance, send an email to investigations@alaska.gov. DHSS will treat the sender’s identity as confidential information and protect it to the maximum extent state and federal law permit.

Who enforces the mandates?

State and local law enforcement are authorized to enforce individual compliance.  In addition, some state boards and commissions have investigative and enforcement powers  and may take enforcement action against a licensee when warranted.  The primary focus is on education and voluntary compliance with the mandates.  Law enforcement will respond to complaints and educate the public when they see violations that jeopardize the safety of individuals or the community. However, individuals who recklessly violate the mandates do risk both civil fines and criminal prosecution. See gov.alaska.gov/home/covid19-healthmandates/ for more details on these penalties.

Can the mandates be changed?

Yes. As the situation changes and more information is available, the governor and public health officials can issue new orders and directives as needed.  

Health Mandate 016: Reopen Alaska Responsibly Plan – Phase I-A

Reopening Alaska’s businesses is vital to the state’s economic well-being, and to the ability of Alaskans to provide for their families. At the same time, everyone shares in the obligation to keep Alaska safe and continue to combat the spread of COVID-19. As a result, businesses and employees must, to the extent reasonably feasible, continue to take reasonable care to protect their staff and operations during this pandemic. Meanwhile, all Alaskans have an obligation to help promote public health and fight this pandemic by continuing to follow public health guidance regarding sanitizing, handwashing, and use of face masks. Those that are at high risk of infection are encouraged to continue to self-quarantine, to the extent possible, and strictly follow social distancing mandates and advisories.

This Mandate addresses and modifies a number of prior Mandates and Health Care Advisories, as appropriate, to implement Phase I of the “Reopen Alaska Responsibly Plan.”  

Attachment D: Non-Essential Public Facing Businesses Generally (Not Including Retail)

Modifies Mandate 011 to allow businesses to resume operations.   What is still closed? Bars and entertainment venues (e.g. theaters, bowling alleys, bingo parlors, gaming centers)   My business is listed in Attachment A: Alaska Essential Services and Critical Workforce Order.  Does Attachment D apply to my business? No.  Essential businesses operate under Attachment A, and non-essential businesses operate under Attachment D.

Attachment E: Retail Businesses

Modifies Mandate 011 to allow businesses to resume operations.

Attachment F: Restaurants Dine-In Services

Modifies Mandate 03.1 to allow restaurants to resume limited dine-in service.  

Attachment G: Personal Care Services

Extensively modifies Mandate 09.   What are “Personal Care Services”? In this context, personal care service means businesses where the service provided, by their nature, place individuals in close contact with each other.

What is allowed? As part of the Governor’s plan to re-open Alaska responsibly, all personal care services can resume operations as long as the service providers follow steps necessary to keep their staff and customers safe, and prevent the spread of COVID-19. These services include, but are not limited to, hair and nail salons, day spas and esthetic locations, barber shops, tattoo shops, tanning facilities, body piercing locations, rolfing, reiki, lactation consultants, and acupressure.   What is required?

Personal care service providers need to follow strong social distancing, hygiene, and cleaning protocols.   You can find the specifics at https://gov.alaska.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/016-Attachment-G.pdf.

  All providers must also comply with their existing regulatory, statutory, and licensing requirements and should consult with their licensing board for additional direction on standards for their industry.  

What happens if someone doesn’t do what this mandate says?

Businesses violating the order can be subject to civil penalties. Violations may be reported to investigations@alaska.gov.  

Attachment H: Non-Essential Non-Public-Facing Businesses

Modifies Mandate 011.  

Attachment I: Childcare and Day Camps

Modifies Mandate 011.  

Attachment J: Fishing Charters

Modifies Mandate 011.  

Attachment K: Gyms and Fitness Centers

Modifies Mandate 03.1.  

Attachment L: Lodging and Overnight Camping

Modifies mandate 011.

Attachment M: Intrastate Travel/Outdoor Day Activity

Modifies Mandates 011 and 012.  

Attachment N: Social, Religious, and Other Gatherings

Modifies Mandate 011.  

Health Mandate 015: Services by Health Care Providers

Do ALL employees have to wear face masks/covers?

Yes. Universal masking procedures are required. Staff who do not have direct contact with patients may use face cloth coverings, while those involved in direct patient care must use surgical masks.

The mandate states that health care facilities should be deploying universal masking procedures in coordination with the “facility infection control program.” Is there a resource that a small practice without the resources or staff for such a program and refer to?

The CDC has guidelines on how to prepare your practice for COVID to include printed resources and patient messaging. In addition, the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) has created a Checklist to Prepare Physician offices for COVID-19: www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/preparedness-resources.html www.aafp.org/dam/AAFP/documents/patient_care/public_health/COVID-19%20Office%20Prep%20Checklist.pdf

How do we obtain cloth masks for face coverings for general staff or patients?

The DHSS COVID website includes information regarding how to create, use and clean masks for personal or employee use: http://dhss.alaska.gov/dph/Epi/id/Pages/COVID-19/coveryourface.aspx There are also numerous local companies producing masks at a grass root level including several Facebook groups dedicated to sourcing homemade masks to those that need them.  Ex: ‘Facebook Alaska Mask Makers’, ‘Fairbanks Mask Makers’ among others. DHSS has created a PPE Flowchart to help offices determine the appropriate level of PPE: http://dhss.alaska.gov/dph/Epi/id/SiteAssets/Pages/COVID-19/healthcare/PPE%20Flowchart.pdf

How do offices put in requests for masks for clinical personnel?

Facilities and providers are expected to source their own personal protective equipment including masks, through normal supply chains.  If unable to obtain adequate PPE, the facility/provider cannot provide services. Under certain circumstances, providers of urgent/emergent procedures (such as hospitals) unable to source PPE should reach out to their local emergency operations center (EOC). Your local EOC will provide the resources requested if available, or they will submit your request for further processing to the State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC).

Should surgeons and providers be tested before returning to the operating room on May 4?

In general, guidelines indicate that testing should only be conducted if screening criteria are met and/or the person is symptomatic. Outside of exceptional circumstances, surgeons and providers do not need to be tested before resuming services on May 4.  

Do I have to get tested and how do we obtain testing?

For non-urgent/non-emergent surgery, the patient must be tested.  The patient should work with their provider to determine where to obtain this test. The Alaska Section of Epidemiology (SOE) has provided guidance for COVID19 testing in Alaska. We encourage communities and providers to find ways to provide testing that may be needed for their patients. Contact your local facilities for specific on-site instructions. http://dhss.alaska.gov/dph/Epi/id/SiteAssets/Pages/HumanCoV/AKCOVIDTestingGuidance.pdf Facilities: smaller systems and critical access hospitals should find a close, high throughput lab to send samples if unable to do on their own.

When is a test for patients required?

Routine/non-invasive services: All health care facilities must screen all patients for recent illness, travel, fever or recent exposure to COVID-19 and, to the extent that is possible, begin testing all admitted patients. Non-urgent/non-emergent procedures (effective date May 4): All health care facilities must screen all patients for recent illness, travel, fever or recent exposure to COVID-19 and, to the extent that is possible, begin testing all admitted patients. Aerosolizing procedures such as suctioning, intubation, or breathing treatments require a negative PCR for SARS-CoV-2 must be obtained within 48 hours prior to the procedure. This should ideally be completed as close to the time of the procedure as possible, but any PCR test may be used. These procedures place both workers and patients at increased risk of exposure, and may result in adverse effects on patients with COVID-19. This does not change the need for PPE – all routine and non-invasive services should still use adequate PPE – including and N95 masks for aerosolizing procedures.  If they cannot obtain these on the market than routine procedures should not be done. Urgent and Emergent Services: The health and well-being of the patient must be prioritized.  There should not be unnecessary delays in urgent or emergent procedures that could impact the health of the patient. Admission: We recommend all patients who come to the emergency department with symptoms get tested, and all admitted patients get tested. We do not recommend delaying admission to the emergency department for a test. Each facility should use PPE and report PUI as before according to their process. Surgery: All patients should be tested within 48 hours of surgery; where this is not possible, the facility must use rigorous screening procedures and treat patients as though they are positive for COVID-19.   Procedures with increased risk of exposure: should have patients tested prior to the procedure to the extent reasonably possible; where this is not possible, the facility must use rigorous screening procedures and treat patients as though they are positive for COVID-19. Again, the health and well-being of the patient is the first priority. If your facility cannot meet the 48-hour deadline for a test and it would adversely affect the patient to postpone the procedure, the mandate allows rigorous screening procedures to be used while test results are pending. A test should still be administered, and if the surgery is elective, you should wait until the result is received prior to performing surgery.

Is there a standard guideline for determining if a health care service, such as an elective surgery, can be delayed eight weeks?

Each surgical office is using an in-house task force or review committee to determine the acuity and/or urgency of a patient’s need for surgery. The objective is to weigh hospital capacity, PPE and potential exposure to surgical personnel against whether a delay in surgical intervention beyond eight weeks would result in patient harm.  

Are there specific requirements for different practice areas?

All existing statutory, regulatory or licensing requirements applicable to health care providers or health care facilities remain in place. Mandate 015 does not require any provider or facility to reopen or resume services. Licensing boards can determine if individual health care provider types can safely perform services or service types given health care constraints, including PPE or testing availability, or the nature of services including length of time of exposure, personal contact and ability to provide environmental mitigation strategies.

Which date applies to my practice?

April 20: routine, non-invasive-type services that require minimal protective equipment and follow all protocols in Section II of mandate 015. May 4: procedures including surgeries and intensive procedures. Testing may be required. Procedures that cannot be delayed beyond eight weeks without posing a significant risk to quality of life (these procedures differ from routine services allowed to resume on April 20 – for instance, routine yearly physical exams can resume on April 20, while a surgical procedure can resume May 4).

Will I lose my unemployment benefits if I don’t resume providing services?

You are strongly encouraged to contact an Unemployment Insurance technician to discuss your individual circumstances. If your employer requests that you return to work but you do not believe it is a safe environment, you should provide detailed information to the UI technician to determine if you fall under an existing eligibility category under Pandemic Unemployment Assistance or if your circumstances justify a “just cause” to continue your unemployment benefits.

My employer says I have to come back to work, but isn’t providing masks/face coverings and/or setting up enhanced protocols.

The employer has the duty to ensure the health of staff as well as patients in order to resume services under Mandate 015. This includes providing adequate protective equipment such as masks and face coverings, as well as conducting mandatory screening of patients.

Are abortion procedures included in this mandate?

Yes, as a procedure occurring within a health care facility by a health care provider. Whether the particular circumstances indicate that a delay beyond eight weeks will pose a significant risk to quality of life is a clinical decision to be made by the provider.    

Health Mandate 014: Non-Congregate Sheltering Order

What does this mandate do?

This mandate does not add restrictions or requirements on citizens or businesses or affect congregate settings, generally. It does not require new quarantines. This mandate is designed to enable the State of Alaska to provide housing to people displaced by COVID-related issues with the support of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Because of the contagious nature of COVID, it’s important that non-congregate settings be available.

Are first responders and health care workers required to use this non-congregate quarantine housing?

No. If a first responder or health care worker would like to be quarantined to protect their family, the State Emergency Operations Center will be able to help them obtain this temporary housing.

What does “homeless” mean?

This term should be understood under the FEMA usage: a homeless person is someone displaced by a disaster. If you are displaced from your home setting due to COVID-related issues, you could be included in this definition of people eligible for temporary, non-congregate quarantine housing.  

Health Mandate 012: Intrastate Travel – Limiting travel between communities to critical infrastructure or critical personal needs

What is the purpose of mandate 12?

The purpose of this mandate is to control the movement of individuals within Alaska in order to prevent, slow and otherwise disrupt the spread of the virus that causes COVID-19.    

How is “community” defined?

  Common sense applies – normal usage of location names and understanding of geographic separation applies when asking about community boundaries.  For instance, Eagle River, Palmer, Wasilla, and Anchorage are all separate communities.    

Are employees of essential services and critical infrastructure permitted to travel?

Yes, but essential services and critical infrastructure entities are recommended to limit their travel within Alaska to key personnel, in order to mitigate the risk to their own employees and the communities where they operate. However, those entities are required to submit a travel plan or protocol consistent with mandates.   Is commercial fishing considered an essential service, and can fishing vessels sail port to port? Yes, commercial fishing is an essential service and part of critical infrastructure. Fishing vessels can sail to port to port in Alaska, but have the responsibility to monitor their crew for signs and symptoms, report any issues to the appropriate authorities, and mitigate the risk of exposure to the small communities in which they operate.  

Is oil production, shipping, and refining essential?

Yes.    

Can I recreate with others outside my family?

You are not prohibited from recreating with others outside your family, but you must stay six feet away from non-household members.          

Health Mandate 011: Statewide Social-Distancing

 

Health Mandate 010: International and Interstate Travel – Order for Self-Quarantine

Issued March 23 and is in effect until May 19, 2020. Find full text and attachments available at https://gov.alaska.gov/home/covid19-healthmandates/

What does Health Mandate 10.1 mean and what is its purpose?

Health Mandate 10.1 has been implemented to help control the entry into Alaska from areas outside the state to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. All people arriving in Alaska, whether resident, worker or visitor, are required to self-quarantine for 14 days and monitor for illness. Arriving residents and workers in self-quarantine should work from home, unless they support critical infrastructure (see Attachment A).

What does the mandate say?

“All people arriving in Alaska, whether resident, worker or visitor, are required to self-quarantine for 14 days and monitor for illness. Arriving residents and workers in self-quarantine, should work from home, unless you support critical infrastructure.”  See Attachment A – Alaska Critical Workforce Infrastructure

How will this be tracked?

Travelers arriving in Alaska will fill out a declaration form online at https://ready.alaska.gov/Form or at the Canadian border (for essential travel only), when they arrive and indicate where they will be self-quarantining for 14 days.

What should a traveler do immediately upon arriving in Alaska?

Anyone arriving in Alaska should go directly from the airport to the designated quarantine location they identified on the mandatory State of Alaska Travel Declaration Form.

I don’t have any symptoms, do I have to self-quarantine?

All people arriving in Alaska, regardless of their perceived health, whether resident, worker or visitor, are required to self-quarantine for 14 days and monitor for illness. Arriving residents and workers in self-quarantine should work from home, unless they support critical infrastructure (see Attachment A). While in quarantine, you should monitor for symptoms according to health guidance from the CDC and the State of Alaska.

Can I quarantine at home?

Yes, if you are an Alaska resident, your designated quarantine location is your residence.

What if I’m visiting?

If you are a visitor or worker, your designated quarantine location is your hotel room or rented lodging.

I have a trip with layovers, different methods of transportation, or stops.  Do I have to quarantine for 14 days at each stop?

When travel consists of multi-segment (e.g. flight connections and layovers) or multimodal (e.g. combination of flight and driving) transportation, travelers do not need to quarantine for 14 days at every stop.

If the traveler leaves the airport or stops for a period of time longer than necessary to replenish supplies or fuel, the traveler must comply with quarantine protocols for the duration of the stop or absence from the airport.  The traveler does not need to submit a Declaration for every such stop during the trip.

  Can I have a family member pick me up? Travelers may use taxis, ride sharing, and personal transportation to their quarantine location. Travelers may be transported to their final destination by friends or family members, following social distancing protocols.  The person providing transportation is not subject to a 14-day quarantine.  However, all mandates including Social Distancing and Intrastate Travel remain in full force, and apply to any potential provider of transportation.

I’m in a hotel room.  Can I go outside and walk on the sidewalk?

No.  You may not go to any public spaces, including sidewalks.  You can only leave your room for medical care.   I have a yard, can I go outside during quarantine? Yes.  Your own private yard, connected to your quarantine residence, is not a public area.  

Can people under quarantine take their pets to the vet in an emergency?

If you are under a post-travel quarantine under Mandate 10, there is no exception for veterinary visits.

What happens if someone doesn’t follow this mandate?

Failure to follow this order is punishable by a fine of up to $25,000, or imprisonment of not more than one year, or both pursuant to Alaska Statute 12.55.035 and Alaska Statute 12.55.135.

If I know a business or individual that isn’t following this mandate, who should I report this to?

Violations may be reported to investigations@alaska.gov. DHSS will treat the sender’s identity as confidential information and protect it to the maximum extent state and federal law permit.

How long do I have to stay in quarantine?

You should stay at your designated location for 14 days or until you leave the state, if less than 14 days.

If I’m sick, may I go to the doctor?

Yes. You may leave your designated quarantine location only for medical emergencies or to seek medical care. Please call your doctor before going to their office or facility.

Can I go to meetings or exercise areas in my quarantine location?

Do not visit any public spaces. Those include pools, meetings rooms, fitness centers, restaurants and more.

May I have visitors at my quarantine location?

No visitors are allowed, other than doctors, health care providers or other critical infrastructure service providers. See Attachment A.

What if someone is living with me at my quarantine location?

If someone else is at your location, you must comply with social distancing guidelines, including remaining at least six feet away from others, and frequently cleaning surfaces. If you need help accessing food, please contact your local jurisdiction to request help.

If I can’t leave, how do I get food at my quarantine location?

Many grocery stores deliver food, and delivery services can bring food from restaurants, all of which can be dropped off outside the door to prevent contact.

Some travelers and businesses providing critical infrastructure are exempted. What is considered critical infrastructure?

A variety of professions and businesses support critical infrastructure, including health care, first responders, financial institutions and more. Find the full list at: https://gov.alaska.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/03232020-COVID-19-Health-Mandate-010-Attachment-A.pdf

What should you do if your business or employees support critical infrastructure and you have travelers coming in from out of state?

If your business is included in Attachment A, and your workers must travel to enter Alaska, you need to submit a plan or protocol for maintaining critical infrastructure to the Department of Commerce, Community and Economic Development by 3 p.m. March 24, “outlining how you will avoid the spread of COVID-19 and not endanger the lives of the communities in which you operate, of others who serve as a part of that infrastructure or the ability of that critical infrastructure to function.” Plans may be submitted to akcovidplans@ak-prepared.com.

Example: What if a telecommunications provider is wondering if it needs to enforce quarantine requirements on its in-state employees who have been on vacation out of state, and are now returning?  (Note that communications providers have been deemed “essential” critical infrastructure).

The provider (company) needs to submit their business implementation plan to akcovidplans@ak-prepared.com. That plan should articulate how the company is protecting workers and customers with respect to the mandate and guidance for quarantine and social distancing. If the employee cannot comport with the company guidance and recommendations for social distancing, we suggest the company have that employee stay home.

Example: I work for a moving company, and I drive across the U.S.-Canadian border frequently, but I’m alone in my truck. Do I still have to quarantine for 14 days after arriving in Alaska?

Critical infrastructure is not exempt from quarantine, but some of quarantine time might be served while working, pursuant to the company mitigation plan.  Moving and trucking companies are considered critical infrastructure, but they are asked to have a mitigation plan on how to avoid the public and help to prevent the spread of COVID-19. This plan should be submitted to akcovidplans@ak-prepared.com.

Example: What if someone is traveling back to their home from out-of-state but have a stopover in another community on their way home? What does this person need to do?

Transient accommodations, including temporary lodging at the stopover location at a hotel, is permissible. The same applies for those travelers with overnights due to weather or other extenuating circumstances on their journey home. The traveler should follow quarantine protocols during stops.

Example: If someone is traveling back to a village but stopping in Anchorage, does that person need to quarantine in both communities?

The person traveling must quarantine when they arrive at their home or employee lodging at the final destination. This person does not need to quarantine in Anchorage. Travelers should state the final destination, not intermediary destinations.

What if my critical infrastructure business or operation relies on outside travelers, but they won’t be entering Alaska prior to April 21, do I have to submit a plan?

No.

I have been traveling to various communities within Alaska, does this impact me?

At this time, travel within the state of Alaska is not restricted by this mandate, though public health guidance in Health Alert 009 issued March 20 calls for avoiding non-essential in-state trips.

My spouse is in the military and will be arriving in Alaska, does this impact traveling military personnel?

All people arriving in Alaska, whether resident, worker or visitor, are required to self-quarantine for 14 days and monitor for illness. Arriving residents and workers in self-quarantine should work from home, unless they support critical infrastructure (see Attachment A).

I am in the military and my dependents will be arriving in Alaska, how does this impact military dependents?

All people arriving in Alaska, whether resident, worker or visitor, are required to self-quarantine for 14 days and monitor for illness. Arriving residents and workers in self-quarantine should work from home, unless they support critical infrastructure (see Attachment A).

Will the mandatory declaration form be collected at the highway border as well as airports?  What state agency will be collecting the Declaration forms at the airports and will they be given to municipalities and or law enforcement agencies?  What will be done with the forms? Are they public records?

As of April 24, 2020, forms are not being collected at the airport.  You must either submit your form electronically at https://ready.alaska.gov/Form, or fill out the form and email it to: 2020_COVID-19@ak-prepared.com All forms will be collected and provided to Alaska Department of Health and Social Services staff in all locations, and will be secured and stored with DHSS. They will not be given to municipalities or to any local, state or federal law enforcement agencies. If in the future a misdemeanor criminal investigation is ongoing, law enforcement will request specific documentation (evidence) from the department, which will be processed in the customary way documentation is provided during criminal investigations, ensuring protocols for chain of custody are applied. The State of Alaska is developing the procedures and collection protocols for forms at land border crossings. The same protocols will apply for collection and preservation.      

Community Resources for Food and Shelter

Location Organization Facility Notes
Alaska Covenant House 755 A Street, Anchorage, AK 99501 Phone: 907-272-1255 (800) 999-9999 – Teen Crisis Line (800) 999-9915 TDD Teen Crisis Line Homeless, runaway & at-risk youth age 13-20
Anchorage Catholic Social Services Br Francis Shelter- wheelchair/walker accessible 1021 E 3rd Ave Anchorage, AK 99501 (907) 277-1731 Women/Couples- Ben Boeke Men- Sullivan Wheelchair/walker users- Br. Francis
Anchorage Anchorage Gospel Mission 2823 E Tudor Rd Anchorage, AK 99507 (907) 563-5603 For men. Picture ID required. Must pass breathalyzer.
Anchorage The Henry House 545 E 4th Ave Anchorage, AK 99501 907-274-5253 Adults with special needs who can function independently. Must be alcohol/drug free & follow house rules
Anchorage Lutheran Social Services of AK Transitional Living Program 1303 W. 33rd Ave Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 272-0643 ext 14 Transitional Housing/Shelter (907) 272-0643 ext 221 Men- secondary agency referral required & much be actively receiving case management
Anchorage Bean’s Café Bean’s Café 1101 E 3rd Ave Anchorage, AK 99501 (907) 274-9595 Women/Couples- Ben Boeke Men- Sullivan Wheelchair/walker users- Br. Francis
Anchorage Catholic Social Services Clare House 4110 Spenard Rd Anchorage, AK 99517 (907) 563-4545 Moms & their children
Anchorage Downtown Soup Kitchen Hope Center 240 E 3rd Ave Anchorage, AK 99501 (907) 277-4302 ext 105 Homeless Women who are clean & sober
Anchorage Salvation Army McKinnell House 1712 A St Anchorage, AK 99501 (907) 375-3500 Emergency shelter for homeless families w/ children
Anchorage Salvation Army Anchorage (Korean) 2100 DeArmoun Rd Anchorage, AK 907-349-9080 Korean
Anchorage Municipality of Anchorage Anchorage Emergency Shelter for Families During COVID+C7-19 Crisis (907) 440-7493 Families
Anchorage & Mat-Su Choosing our Roots 307 E Northern Lights Blvd Ste 101 Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 764-6623 LGBTQ+ Individuals age 13-24 who are homeless or marginally housed.
Fairbanks Fairbanks Rescue Mission 723 27th Ave Fairbanks, AK 99701 (907) 452-5343 ext 102  Women’s Shelter (907) 452-5343 ext 103 Men’s Shelter (907) 452-5343 ext 112 Veteran’s Single adults, adults w/ children, homeless vets. < 18 w/o guardian until guardian located. Must not be a danger to others.
Fairbanks Bread Line, Inc. Stone Soup Café 507 Gaffney Rd, Fairbanks, AK 99701 Breakfast M-F 7:30-9:30AM
Fairbanks No Limits, Inc. No Limits Warming Center 1616 South Cushman St. 10AM-2PM weekdays & Sunday, lunch
Fairbanks The Bridge Encampment Outreach Warming Center JP Jones Center 2400 Rickert Fairbanks, AK (907) 799-5270 3/31/20 M-F 1PM-6PM, supper (4-6)
Fairbanks Salvation Army 1602 10th Ave Fairbanks, AK (907) 452-3103
Fairbanks area Fairbanks Youth Advocates The Door Youth Shelter 138 10th Ave Fairbanks, AK 99701 (907) 374-5678 Youth 12-18
Haines Haines Christian Center Assembly of God 201 Union St Haines, AK 99827 (907) 766-2126 Individuals & families
Juneau  Juneau Cooperative Christian Ministry The Glory Hole 247 S Franklin St Juneau, AK 99801 (907) 586-4159 Main (907) 586-4304
Juneau (Southeast) Gastineau Human Services Corporation Juno House 5597 Aisek St Juneau, AK 99801 (907) 780-3044 Adults
Kenai Salvation Army 201 N. Forrest Dr & 2nd Kenai, AK (907) 283-3879
Kenai Friendship Mission 14639 N Spur Hwy Kenai, AK 99611 (907) 283-5277 (907) 953-0693 Cell phone Men
Kenai Kenaitze Indian Tribe Kenaitze/Salamatof Housing Services 150 N Willow St Kenaitze Indian Tribe Professional Cente Kenai, AK 99611 (907) 335-7200 (907) 335-7230 Service/Intake Income qualified AN/AI with suitable criminal background check meeting program self-sufficiency residence agreement
Ketchikan First City Homeless Services 400 Main St Lower Level First United Methodist Church Ketchikan, AK 99901 (907) 225-0888 Homeless day services
Ketchikan & Prince of Wales Ketchikan Committee for the Homeless 628 Park Avenue Ketchikan, AK 99901 (907) 247-6242 Resident Direct Line (907) 225-4194
Kodiak Br. Francis Shelter Kodiak 410 Thorsheim St Kodiak, AK 99615 (907) 486-5610 Adults
Mat-Su Salvation Army 12271 E. Palmer Wasilla Hwy Palmer, AK 907-745-7079
Mat-Su Family Promise Mat-Su 561 W Nelson Rd Wasilla, AK 99654 (907) 357-6160 Mat-Su resident
Mat-Su My House 300 N Willow St, Wasilla, AK 99654 (907) 373-4357 Teens
Nome Nome Community Center Nome Emergency Shelter Team 2nd Ave & Division Nazarene Church Karmun Christian Education Center Nome, AK 99762 (907) 443-5259
     

Domestic Violence Shelters and Crisis Lines

Location Organization Facility Notes
Valdez Cordova Borough Advocates for Victims of Violents Domestic Violence Shelter (800) 835-4044 Statewide Crisis Line (907) 835-2999 Crisis Line
Anchorage Abused Women’s Aid in Crisis (AWAIC) 100 W. 13th Ave Anchorage, AK 99501 Crisis Line: (907) 279-0100
Anchorage Beacon Hill 2807 Arctic Boulevard Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 227-0925 Service/Intake 24 Hour Safe Families Help line Voluntary child placement for families in crisis
Barrow North Slope Borough NSB/DHSS – Arctic Women in Crisis 4470 Northstar St Barrow, AK 99723 (907) 852-0261 (800) 478-0267 24-hour Crisis Line Victims of violence
Bering Straits Native Region Bering Sea Women’s Group (800) 570-5444 Toll-Free (907) 443-5444 Crisis Line Victims of or at risk for violence
Dillingham Safe & Fear-free Environment 21 G St Dillingham, AK 99576 (800) 478-2316 Toll-Free 24 Hour Crisis Hotline (907) 842-2316 Emergency 24 Hour Crisis Hotline Victims of violence
Emmonak & surrounding villages Emmonak Women’s Shelter 207 Delta Street Emmonak, AK 99581 (907) 949-6345 Emergency Cell Phone (907) 949-1434 Emergency Crisis Line Women who are victims of violence & their children (male children up to age 18)
Fairanks, North Pole, Salcha Love in the Name of Christ of the Tanana Valley 818 26th Avenue Fairbanks, AK 99701 (907) 452-3876 Main (907) 452-5683 Service/Intake Families w/ at least 1 child < 18, pregnant mothers, & families working on reunification
Fairbanks / Interior Interior Alaska Center for Non-violent Living 726 26th Ave Ste 1 Fairbanks, AK 99701 (907) 452-2293 (800) 478-7273 24-hour Hotline Victims of violence & their children
Homer, Southern Kenai Peninsula South Peninsula Center 3776 Lake Street Homer, AK 99603 (907) 235-7712 (907) 235-8943 Emergency Crisis Line Victims of violence
Juneau Aiding Women in Abuse and Rape Emergencies Emergency Crisis Line (907) 586-1090; (800) 478-1090 Outside Juneau
Kenai Leeshore Center 325 S Spruce Street Kenai, AK 99611 (907) 283-9479 Main (907) 283-7257 Emergency 24-Hour Crisis Line
Kenai, Mat-Su, Anchorage Southcentral Foundation Willa’s Way Safe Home (907) 729-6300 AN/NA women & their children (including boys) <18 who are victims of domestic violence
Ketchikan, Southern Southeast Alaska Women in Safe Homes 2002 1st Avenue Ketchikan, AK 99901 (907) 225-9474 Emergency (907) 228-4099 (800) 478-9474 Toll-Free Female victims & children of domestic violence, sexual assault & other violent crimes
Kodiak Kodiak Women’s Resource & Crisis Center 422 Hillside Kodiak, AK 99615 (907) 486-6171 (888) 486-3625 Toll-Free Crisis Line (907) 486-3625 Emergency Crisis Line
Mat-Su, Fairbanks, Kenai, Anchorage Alaska Family Services (907) 746-8026 (866) 746-4080 Outside Palmer/Wasilla Women who are victims of violence & their children
Mat-Su, Fairbanks, Kenai, Anchorage Alaska Family Services (866) 746-4080 Outside Palmer/Wasilla (800) 799-7233 24-Hour Crisis Line Abused mothers w/ substance use disorders
Northwest Arctic Maniilaq Association Family Crisis Center 733 2nd Avenue Kotzebue, AK 99752 (907) 442-3724 (888) 478-3969 Toll-Free Crisis Line Victims of violence & children removed from their homes by the State of Alaska
Seward, Moose Pass, Crown Point, Hope, Cooper Landing Seaview Community Services 302 Railway Ave Seward, AK 99664 (907) 224-5257 (907) 362-1843 Domestic Violence Crisis Line (907) 224-3027 Emergency Crisis Line Victims of violence
Sitka, Angoon, Kake, & Port Alexander Stikans Against Family Violence (907) 747-3370 (800) 478-6511 Toll-Free Crisis Line (907) 747-6511 Crisis Line Women & children victims of violence
Tanacross Tanacross Village Council 1001 Tanacross Ln Tanacross, AK 99776 (907) 883-5024 AN/IA women & their children
Tanana Chiefs Conference & Doyon Region Tanana Chiefs’ Conference Client Development Center 122 1st Ave Ste 600 Fairbanks, AK 99701 (907) 452-8251 (800) 478-6822 Toll-Free In AK (800) 770-8251 Toll-Free Outside AK Families in crisis
Unalaska, Dutch Harbor, Aleutians East & Aleutians West Boroughs Unalaskans Against Sexual Assault & Family Violence 156 W Broadway Unalaska, AK 99685 (907) 581-1500 (800) 478-7238 24 Hour Crisis Line Women& children impacted by violence or homeless/stranded in Unalaska/Dutch Harbor
Yukon Kuskokwim Delta Region Tundra Women’s Coalition 248 6th Avenue Bethel, AK 99559 (800) 478-7799 Toll Free Crisis Hotline (907) 543-3456 Crisis Hotline Victims of violence
 

Office of Governor Mike Dunleavy
(907) 465-3500
www.Gov.Alaska.gov

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Department of Health and Social Services
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www.Dhss.Alaska.gov

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Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management
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