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Animal Control

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1. Who is served?

Animal Control services are for the residents of East Chicago. During 2002 at least one out of seven residents of the city have used these services.

2. What is the service description?

The Animal Control Department is responsible for controlling stray and unlicensed animals in the community. It is also responsible for assisting in the resolution of other problems relating to animals.

Such problems include:

• Any animal which is in violation of any City Ordinance
• Any animal who is being abused
• Humane capture of  any animal which has intruded in a resident’s home
• Removal of dead or injured animals from the streets

3. What happens to the animals that bite a person?

Any animal that is not licensed nor has received immunizations against rabies and which is reported to have bitten an individual will be impounded. The animal will then be quarantined at the Animal Shelter for a period of ten days:

• If the animal is not up to date on its rabies shots the owner can resume possession of the animal by obtaining a pre-paid rabies immunization receipt. Only then will the animal be released.
• If the animal’s rabies shots are up to date, the animal can be quarantined at the owner’s discretion.
• In the case of stray animals or any animal who’s owner did not keep up to date the rabies shots, the impoundment fee is $5. Any impounded animal can be claimed by their owner upon compliance with maintaining proof of rabies shots and impoundment fees.

4. What are the pet owners responsibilities?

Licenses

No person shall keep or harbor any dog/cat of any age within city limits unless a license has been issued. All licenses shall be issued for one year beginning with 1st day of January. The yearly license fee is $2 for a female and $1 for a male or spayed female.

Tags

Dogs and cats must wear identification tags or collars at all times when off the premises of the owners.

Waste Maintenance

The owners of every animal shall be responsible for the removal of any excreta deposited by his/her animal on public walks, recreation areas, or private property.

Animals In Heat

Every female cat or dog in season shall be confined in a building or secure enclosure in such a manner that such female cat or dog cannot come into contact with another animal except for planned breeding.

5. What happens to animals running lose?

Any animal found running at large will be impounded. Proof of rabies immunizations, immunization shot record, city registration, photos of owner and pet together (social media posts or camera roll acceptable) and impoundment fees well be required in order to release any animal. The Initial fee is $5 for the first day, plus $2 for each additional day the dog/cat has been impounded. After three working days, if the animal impounded has not been claimed by its owner, it will become the property of the Animal Control Division.

6. What types of animals does the animal control division pick up?

The types of animal that are picked up are:

• Cats
• Dogs

The following animals fall under specific conditions. If opossums, raccoons, and squirrels pose a nuisance you must either call Indiana DNR ( 1-800-457-8283 ) or you must rent a trap from the animal control division through the city controller's office. East Chicago Animal Control does not exterminate or deal with wildlife, nor does Animal Control enter private residences under any condition.

• Opossums (must be in trap)
• Raccoons (must be in trap)
• Squirrels (must be in trap)

Please call to verify if we can handle your animal trapping case.

7. Can cages be rented to capture an animal lingering in the premises of a resident’s home?

The Animal Shelter has cages that can be rented out to those residents who have an animal roaming in their home or around their premises. 

Cage rentals are a flat $25.00 fee for a 15 day duration. No refunds if animal is caught before the duration is up. If you need the rental for more than the allotted 15 days you must rent the trap for an additional $25.00.

Contact 219-391-8364 for animal control rental procedure.

8. Who should I call to report an injured, sick, or dead deer?

To report deer please contact The Department of Natural Resources Customer Service Center at 317-232-4200 or 877-463-6367, Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

9. I have concerns about wildlife.

In most wildlife cases East Chicago Animal Control does not deal with roaming opossums, raccoons, squirrels, deer, coyotes, etc. (animals that are not dogs or cats; excluding feral cats) In the case of these listed animals  contact The Department of Natural Resources Customer Service Center at 317-232-4200 or 877-463-6367 or 1-800-457-8283, Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

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Birth Certificates

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1. What the new birth registry means for you.

Notice: Early January 2021 Indiana State Department of Health implemented a new digital registry system. 

As a result, many certificates have not transferred into the new registry. 

Please call the East Chicago Health Department Vital Records division at (219) 391-8413 to check the availability of East Chicago records before making in office visits, mail orders, or online orders. 

If your record exists with East Chicago and is not available through the digital archives a request must be made by the Health Department to Indiana State in order to generate the record. 

This process may take several weeks due to short staff. Please plan your prior obligations accordingly. 

Please note the Health Department is not liable for any appointments or expiration dates known to the requester. 

No document can be produced for the client to appease appointments or expiration dates.

2. Is this birth certificate a legal document?

Yes. All East Chicago birth certificates are stamped with the Health Officer signature, and given a textured seal. This certificate is legal and can be used for:

• Bureau of Motor Vehicles / Department of Motor Vehicles
• Government Assistance Program Verification
• Government Verification
• Job Verification
• Passports

This certificate does NOT include mother's maiden name or time of birth.

This certificate is NOT a long form certificate and NOT valid for an Apostille seal application. 

This certificate is NOT valid for dual citizenship applications.

3. Does this birth certificate include my time of birth and mother’s maiden name?

No. Should you need the time of birth or mother’s maiden name to be displayed on your certificate, you must request a long form birth certificate which can only be obtained through the Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH). 

Please contact ISDH at 317-233-2700 for further information.

4. Is this a long form birth certificate? How can I obtain a long form birth certificate?

No. A long form birth certificate can only be obtained through the Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH). 

Please contact ISDH at 317-233-2700 for further information.

5. Can I request an Apostille seal from East Chicago?

No. Should you need an Apostille seal to prove dual citizenship or international verification you need to contact the Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH) at 317-233-2700. The procedure will include requesting the long form birth certificate from the ISDH to then send to the secretary of state for the seal.

6. Can I come to the East Chicago Health Department office for my birth certificate?

Only if you were born in East Chicago, Indiana. If you are purchasing a certificate for yourself, you will need your valid driver’s license or valid state ID. If you do not have valid ID please refer to which documents you will need. 

If you are purchasing a certificate for next of kin please refer to acceptable relatives and documents they will need.

Please refer to office hours and acceptable forms of payment.

7. Can I get a social security card from here?

No. Local health departments are not affiliated with the social security office. Should you need a card for a child or a replacement card, you may seek any social security office near you.

8. Do I need an appointment to get my birth certificate?

No. An appointment is only necessary if you are getting an amendment to your birth certificate or you are requesting a paternity affidavit.

9. How long will the in office visit take?

Visits usually take 10 to 20 minutes. Certificates are printed and given in hand during your visit. Coming into the office, you will fill an application with your information and present your valid driver’s license, valid state ID, or 3 alternative documents. The process will take 10 to 20 minutes depending upon the traffic within the office.

10. My child was recently born, when will the certificate be ready?

Birth certificates are generally ready in 2 to 3 weeks. So long as the child was born at St. Catherine’s hospital in East Chicago Indiana, the certificate for newborns will be generated between 2 to 3 weeks and parents will need to produce the birth announcement form from the hospital and proper identification.

The announcement form is not absolutely needed, you will need to fill the certificate application instead.

11. I was adopted. Can I get my certificate here?

No. As per state, all adoptions are to be taken care of via Indiana State Department of Health 317-233-2700.

12. What will I need to get my birth certificate?

You will need to provide a valid license or valid State ID. The minimum documents we require for certificates is a valid driver’s license or valid state ID meaning it has not expired, it is not a photocopy, and it is not a temporary print out. As per state requirement, we do not accept the temporary paper ID. Please refer to alternative documentation if you do not have a valid license or ID.

13. I do not have a valid driver’s license or state ID. What can I do?

You will need to provide three alternative documents. If you do not have a valid license or ID we require a minimum of 3 alternative documents. Below is a list of acceptable identification:

Acceptable Documentation (Need 3 Docs)

• Social security card
• School records or transcript
• School diploma or equivalent
• 30 day paystub with name
• 30 day renter’s receipt with name
• 30 day utility bill with name
• 30 day hospital bill or clinic bill with name
• Any credit card statement with name
• Bank statement with name
• U.S. Passport
• Matrícula Consular card

We Do Not Accept The Following

• Expired license or ID
• Temporary paper ID from BMV/DMV
• Passports from foreign countries
• Voter cards from foreign countries
• Library cards
• Xerox copies of original documents

If you do not have 3 different documents from the list above please call the department for further information 219-391-8413.

14. Is the BMV issued temp paper ID accepted?

No. As per State law (2018) the East Chicago Health Department cannot accept the temporary paper ID.

You must have a valid driver’s license, valid state ID, or 3 alternative documents in order to request the certificates.

15. Who can pick up my birth certificate in the case I cannot pick up my own?

State law dictates No aunt, uncle, cousin, niece, nephew, ex-spouse, unlisted father, step parent (not listed on certificate), or non-relative may pick up your certificate without power of attorney or direct interest documentation.

The only relative who has the authority to pick up your certificate (with appropriate ID) is :

• Mother or Father (Must be listed on certificate.)
• Grandmother or Grandfather (Must be parent of a parent listed on the record & show birth certificate of said parent of grandchild & valid ID.)
• Brother or Sister over the age of 18 (With their own birth certificate & ID.)
• Wife or husband (With marriage license & ID.)
• Court appointed legal guardian or appointed power of attorney (Must provide guardianship papers with court seal & valid ID.)
• Attorney representing person named on record (Must provide direct interest spelled out on letter head or court documents.)
• State and Federal agencies (Must provide work ID as well as direct interest spelled out on letter head, court documents, or signed authorization from client.)
• Social agency (Must provide work ID as well court documentation or signed authorization from client.)
• Genealogy - Individual named on certificate must be 75 years old and deceased (Must provide proof of death.)

To verify direct relationship we will cross reference the names on the certificate & ID with who is petitioning for the certificate.

16. I am recently incarcerated, recently released from incarceration, in a shelter, in an institute, or am homeless. How can I request my birth certificate?

In most institutions and shelters the available social worker or lawyer firm can advocate for your certificate. Please refer to the below items you will need to advocate on behalf of a client. 

If you are requesting a certificate on behalf of yourself and find yourself in any of these situations, please call the East Chicago Health Department at 219-391-8413 to review your case.

17. I am a social worker, shelter representative, or lawyer firm requesting a certificate for my client. What do I need?

The agency or representative is still responsible for sending a formal request on a client’s behalf through office visit, mail, or online order. All methods will require the advocate’s work ID (in place of the individual’s license of ID), request on office letterhead, and payment.  Contact East Chicago Health DPT 219-391-8413.

• Attorney representing person named on record (Must provide direct interest spelled out on letter head or court documents.)
• State and Federal agencies (Must provide work ID as well as direct interest spelled out on letter head, court documents, or signed authorization from client consenting to services.)
• Social agency (Must provide work ID as well court documentation or signed authorization from client consenting to services.)

Please note that the Health Department does not provide vouchers for birth certificates. The advocating entity or individual is responsible for payment.

Certificate Application

Birth Certificate (English)

Birth Certificate (Spanish)

Death Certificate (English)

Death Certificate (Spanish)

18. Can I call ahead for my birth certificate and can I pay over the phone?

No. This office needs to verify who you are with your legal identification. This office does not take payment over the phone.

19. Can I request my certificate through the mail?

Yes. Depending on the location you are mailing from we advise the round trip mail to be between 10 and 16 business days. Mail ordering is still dependent upon State Laws concerning valid identification and familiar relation.

1. Photocopy of valid driver’s license, state ID, or 3 alternative documentation
   • If you are ordering a relative or spouse's birth certificate, please refer to the list of documents you will need to provide with the order.
2. Must fill out the birth request form: English    Spanish, or provide a handwritten/typed note with the following information.
   • Birthday month/day/year
   • Both parents name
   • Full name at birth
   • Mother’s maiden name
   • Telephone to be reached at
3. Final documents:
   • Payment is exclusively in money order form, and made out to East Chicago Health Department
   • Each Certificate copy will be $12, for more copies please multiply accordingly - No personal checks or cash, or it will be sent back.
   • Include self-addressed, self-stamped envelope for return.
4. Must be mailed to:
   100 W Chicago Avenue
   East Chicago IN, 46312, Suite 100 A
   Attn: Vital Records

Alternatively, you may print the certificate application from the website and mail it with a photocopy of valid driver’s license, valid state ID, or 3 alternative documentation, money order, and self-addressed stamped envelope.

You may call the East Chicago Health Department 7 business days after mailing your forms to see if we have received it and if it has been put back into the mail, 219-391-8413.

20. Can I purchase my certificate online?

Yes. Below are the instructions for online ordering. There will be a difference in price for online ordering versus mail or office visit, and it will require a fax. Online ordering is faster than mail ordering but will come at slight fee increase. There is regular mail shipping (7 to 10 business days) or UPS overnight (2 to 3 business days) shipping available. Without faxing your items to the Health DPT will Not know your order exists and will remain incomplete. You will be charged without receiving the certificate.

Online ordering is still dependent upon State Laws concerning valid identification and familiar relation.

1. Access the VitalChek website  (This is a verified website also used by State.)
2. Select order birth certificate
3. Select state of Indiana
4. Select city of East Chicago
5. Health Department will be – East Chicago Indiana Department of Public Health (Do not select Indiana State. Indiana State will take 3-4 months to process.)

Shipping

• There are two shipping methods 1 regular mail (no cost) 2 UPS Air ($17.50) shipping will automatically select UPS, unselect if not wanted.
• Each certificate is $12, website charges $8.50
• In total Regular mail order for 1 certificate is $20.50, UPS for 1 certificate is $38. If you are in need of multiple certificates the shipping fee and service charge does not increase, only certificate fee will increase.

To Complete Your Order

• After you put in debit/credit information and purchase you must download and print this page. That will be your authorization form which must be faxed to the East Chicago Health Department to complete your order. Fax number will be on the authorization form. You will also fax a photocopy of your valid license or state ID with the confirmation page. If you do not have a valid drivers or ID please refer to acceptable documents.
• If you are ordering a relative or spouse’s birth certificate, please refer to the list of documents you will need to provide with the order.
• If you are from an agency, institution, or lawyer please refer to required documentation.
• For your convenience you can access fax services from public libraries, UPS stores, FedEx stores, and currency exchanges.
• Faxed orders will be processed before 12 pm Central time.
• This authorization form and photocopy of license/ID or documents are required to complete your order. Without the fax the Health Department will not know the order exists and the company will take your payment regardless if the Department sends the certificate. No documents are ever faxed or emailed to you, the fax is from you, the customer, to our office for verification.

You may call the East Chicago Health Department at  219-391-8413 to verify we have received your fax.

21. What will my relative need to get my certificate?

Depending on the relation to you, different relatives will need different documentation. 

• Mother - Will need valid driver’s license or valid state ID.
• Father - So long as the father’s name is on your certificate, father will need valid driver’s license or valid state ID.
• Paternal Grandparent - Paternal grandparents of grandchild will need their own son’s certificate and valid driver’s license or valid state ID.
• Maternal Grandparent - Maternal grandparents of grandchild will need their own daughter’s certificate and valid driver’s license or valid state ID.
• Sibling - So long as the sibling is over the age of 18 and has at least one parent in relation, they will need their own certified birth certificate (not xeroxed) and a valid driver’s license or valid state ID.
• Wife/Husband - To pick up for spouse you will need your marriage license and your valid driver’s license or valid state ID. If you do not have the marriage license you will need to request it from the Lake County Clerk 219-755-3440.
• No aunt, uncle, cousin, ex-spouse, or non-relative may pick up your certificate, unless they have direct interest such as court appointed guardianship, court appointed custody, estate beneficiary, inheritor, life insurance beneficiary, bank account closer, or other agency that requests the birth certificate.

Your relation needs to show a direct kinship to you. A relation should have at least one parent similar to the record on file to obtain the certificate.

22. My name and/or other information on my birth certificate is incorrect. What can I do?

If your name or any other information is incorrect on your East Chicago issued birth certificate, or you had a legal name change through the courts and you were born in East Chicago, we advise you to call our department 219-391-8413. You will need to bring the official court papers with you to change the certificate, and will only need to pay for the certificate.

You may or may not need to set an appointment to have your name amended depending on your case. Amendments have a fee of $25, and $12 for new certificate.

23. My name has been changed, how do I get a new certificate?

If you had a legal name change through the courts and you were born in East Chicago, we advise you to call our department 219-391-8413. You will need to bring the official court papers with you to change the certificate, and will only need to pay for the certificate.

You may or may not need to set an appointment to have your name amended depending on your case. Amendments have a fee of $25, and $12 for new certificate.

24. The name on my birth certificate is different than my current documents. Can i get this name on my certificate?

If the current name on documents, ID, and/or information is different on the certificate (regardless if this change occurred within any time of that individual's lifetime or at the discretion of a parent or guardian or institution) and was not changed within the courts or via a legal name change amendment, this "current name" is not legal and will not reflect on the birth certificate. If you would like your "current name" to be reflected on the birth certificate you will have to call the East Chicago Health Department at 219-391-8413 to discuss your case. 

Pending the permission from Indiana State Department of Health to complete this change, this process will be called a name change amendment. Please refer to the information here to view the process.

25. Can I request a birth certificate from any Health Department?

No. All birth records are stored by the state and county in which that person was born including overseas military births. 

Different State

If you were born in a different state you must contact the state health department from the state you were born. 

Different Country

If you were born in a different country, contact the Indiana State Department of Health for more information 317-233-2700.

26. I was born in Lake County can I request a birth certificate from East Chicago?

Yes and No. While East Chicago is within Lake County, the East Chicago Health Department only prints certificates for those born within East Chicago. Call the East Chicago Health Department at 219-391-8713, which is located at:
100 W Chicago Avenue
Suite 100 A
East Chicago, IN, 46312 

City of Gary

If you were born in the city of Gary you must contact the Gary Health Department 219-882-5565 located at
1145 W 5th Avenue
Gary, IN 46402.

Other Cities Beside East Chicago or Gary

If you were born in Lake County elsewhere than East Chicago or Gary you must contact the Lake County Health Department at 219-755-3655. The Lake County Health Department is located at:
2900 W 93rd Avenue
Crown Point, IN 46307

27. What is considered genealogy?

Genealogy- Individual named on certificate must be over 75 years old and deceased (Must provide proof of death.)

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Certificate Amendments

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1. I am seeking an amendment on my certificate. What do I need?

Per State, the laws surrounding birth amendments will be changing. We advise clients to call our office at 219 391-8413 to review your case.

The Amendment is a legally binding change to your certificate. Once you have signed and should the information be incorrect, the state will consider this legally binding and will not be rectified at the local level therefore after, but will have to be changed through the courts. Once you amend your certificate at the local level you can no longer amend your certificate through the local level and must go through the courts therefore after. You may review the needed documents for the amendment in the next question. You will need 2 different documents, and must be ten years or older. The documents you provide must reflect the correct spelling you want to be displayed on your certificate.

Appointment Availability

Appointments are only available on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays for 9 or 10 a.m, except days that fall on the first or the last of the month. 

Fee

Amendments are $25 and a new certificate is $12.

2. What documents do I need for my amendment?

You will need 2 different documents reflecting your intended name spelling. 

Items of documentary evidence to permit amendment of a birth record are listed below. This list does not include all acceptable documents, but includes those most frequently used. The documents must be over ten (10) years old to be acceptable as evidence.

• Baptismal Certificate - May be obtained from the Church.
• School Records- Entry into grade school is most valuable. May be obtained from County Superintendent or school office. School records must show the name and location of the school.
• Life Insurance Policies- Application page (usually located inside the original policy). The name of the Insurance Company, policy number, and date of issue must be included (photocopies are acceptable.)
• Application for Marriage License or Marriage Certificate - Available from the County Clerk of the County in which the license was obtained.
• Voter's Registration- May be obtained from the County Clerk of the County in which the voter is registered.
• Military Discharge Papers- or draft registration card.
• Census Record- Copies of census records must be obtained from the Bureau of Census, Pittsburg, Kansas. Instructions and the form for requesting a search of the Census (except 1890) are available from 1880 to 1960.
• Employment Records- Available from Personnel Office. Record should show PLACE OF EMPLOYMENT and the date the record was created.
• Records of Trade, Professional or Fraternal Organization- Usually available from the secretary of the organization.
• Birth Record of Children- The original record of birth is on file at the State Department of Health (if born in Indiana) and will show the age of the parents at the time of birth, State staff members will check one record when provided the name, place, date of birth, and parents. (This should be the oldest child.)
• Hospital Record of Birth- May be obtained from the Medical Records office in the hospital where the delivery occurred.
• High School Diploma- A photocopy is acceptable.

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Court & Clerk FAQ's

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1. When is my court date?

Contact City Court at 219-391-8489 or go to: https://public.courts.in.gov/mycase/#/vw/Search

2. How much is my court cost, traffic tickets fee, or court disposition?

Contact City Clerk at 219-391-8491

3. Do I have a warrant?

Contact City Court at 219-391-8489

4. What are the payment hours?

Payments can be made Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday from 8:30 am to 3:30 pm. On Thursday payments can be made from 8:30 am to 6:30 pm.

5. What payment types do you accept?

The Clerk's office accepts cash, money order, debit or credit card payment. No personal check are accepted. All cash bond have to be posted in CASH ONLY.

6. How do I pay online?

If you would like to pay online, use the following link to view the Clerk's website. We currently use MuniciPAY as our credit/debit card vendor. You MUST know your case number and EXACT amount that you owe to pay online.

7. Are there fees to make payments online?

Yes, our vendor charges for a service fee for credit/debit card payments.

8. How much is the service?

The amount of the service fee is dependent on the amount that you are paying. Prior to completing the payment you will be informed of the service fee.

9. Do you take payments over the phone?

No, the only payment options are to come into the office or pay online.

10. How do I turn myself in on a warrant/bench warrant?

If you have bond, you can turn yourself in the East Chicago Police Department. You will have to post the bond and you will be given a new court date on your bond receipt.

If you do not have a bond you will be held until the next available court date.

If you want to turn yourself in and go to court the same day, you can turn yourself in the East Chicago Police Department any Monday, Wednesday or Friday before 6:00 am. On Thursday you have to turn yourself in before 11:00 am.

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COVID-19 Información en español

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1. ¿Hay pruebas locales?

(ENLACE) enlace a todos los sitios de prueba provistos por ISDH

A continuación se encuentran los lugares de prueba conocidos con requisitos de preinscripción. Llame a estos sitios directamente para obtener más información. Si no está seguro acerca de las pruebas, puede consultar el centro de llamadas del Departamento de Salud del Estado de Indiana (ISDH) para obtener una aclaración.

Si necesita ver el mapa generado por el estado para los sitios de prueba dentro del estado de Indiana, el siguiente enlace lo llevará allí. Haga clic aquí para ver el mapa de pruebas estatales.

• Puede consultar la línea directa COVID del Departamento de Salud del Estado de Indiana para obtener más información. Haga clic para la página web de ISDH .

Línea directa de ISDH: 317-233-7125

ISDH después de horas Línea directa: 219-233-1325

ISDH Línea gratuita las 24 horas, los 7 días de la semana: 877-826-0011

• ¡Nuevo! Covid Drive Thru

  Ciudad Escolar de East Chicago, Edificio Administrativo

  1401 E. 144th St, Este de Chicago, IN, 46312

  Fechas:

  19 de agosto - 21 de agosto

  24 de agosto - 30 de noviembre

  Solo días de semana

  
  

  Veces:

  8:00 am - 12:00 pm

  12:30 pm a 4:30 pm

  5:00 pm - 8:00 pm

  Seguro aceptado, Gratis sin seguro

• Sitio de prueba de Walgreens

720 W Chicago Ave

East Chicago, IN 46312

Prueba autoadministrada

Precio: gratis

Abierto los siete días de la semana de 9 a.m. a 9 p.m.

• Centro de salud de Marram

Ubicación

3229 Broadway, Gary, IN 46409

Planificación

- Con cita

Horas

Lun - Jue: 8:30 AM - 7:00 PM Vie: 8:30 AM- 5:00 PM Sáb: 8:30 AM -12: 00PM

Requisitos para ser probado

- Exposición: Marram sintomático realiza pruebas para los residentes del área noroeste de Indiana que pueden haber estado expuestos al virus COVID-19 y / o para aquellos residentes que potencialmente exhiben síntomas del nuevo virus corona.

Opciones de pago

El centro ayudará a los pacientes con los formularios de Elegibilidad Presunta de Indiana según sea necesario y el centro también puede facturar a los seguros comerciales por los servicios.

Información del contacto

Teléfono: 219-806-3000.

• NW Indiana ER & Hospital

Ubicación

7904 Cabela Dr, Hammond, IN 46324

Horas

Lun-Dom: 10 AM-10PM

Requisitos para ser probado

Opciones de pago

Aceptar todos los seguros comerciales con un costo inicial de $ 0 para aquellos con seguro aceptado. Si no tiene seguro, también tenemos opciones de precios asequibles disponibles.

Información del contacto

Teléfono: (219) 554-9911

• ubicacion HealthLinc

1313 W Chicago Ave, East Chicago IN 46312

Planificación

- Con cita -

Días: martes y jueves

Información del contacto

Teléfono: 219-398-9685

Resultados de la prueba

Siga las instrucciones proporcionadas al realizar la prueba.

• El hospital franciscano de Michigan City y Crown Point está realizando pruebas locales con restricciones y bajo preinscripción. Si necesita más información, póngase en contacto con sus ubicaciones de perspectiva. Haga clic para la página web franciscana .

Campus franciscano de Crown Point: 219-681-6912

Campus franciscano de la ciudad de Michigan: 219-877-1474

• Midwest Express Clinic  está realizando pruebas limitadas para pacientes de alto riesgo, trabajadores de atención médica y socorristas en nuestras ubicaciones de Munster, Crown Point, Merrillville y Schererville, Indiana. Todos los pacientes interesados en la prueba COVID-19 deben registrarse y enviar información de identificación y seguro en línea . Consulte la página web de Midwest Express Clinic  para obtener más información.

Munster - (219) 513-2000

Schererville - (219) 440-7373

Punto de corona - (219) 769-1362

Merrillville - 219-707-5276

• Cuidado familiar urgente

Ubicación (Drive-Thru)

1217 US HWY 41, Schererville, IN 46375

Planificación

- Con cita previa en famurgentcare.com

Horas

Todos los días: de 9:00 a.m. a 5:00 p.m.

Requisitos para ser probado

- Nota del médico - Trabajador esencial - Exposición - Trabajador sanitario - Embarazada - Sintomática

Información del contacto

Teléfono: 219-769-6545

• NW Indiana ER & Hospital

Ubicación

7904 Cabela Dr, Hammond, IN 46324

Horas

Lun-Dom: 10 AM-10PM

Contacto (219) 554-9911

• Ubicación

10343 Indianapolis Blvd, Highland, IN 46322

Planificación

- Con cita

- Entrar

- Programación vía web disponible

Horas

Lun-Vie: 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Requisitos para ser probado

- Trabajador esencial

- Exposición

- Trabajador de la salud

- embarazada

- sintomático

Las pruebas de COVID-19 se pueden administrar a: Todos los pacientes con síntomas de COVID-19; Todos los trabajadores de la salud, personal de primera respuesta o pacientes expuestos que nuestros proveedores consideran en riesgo (con o sin síntomas).

 

Opciones de pago

Se aceptan la mayoría de los planes de seguro o las opciones de autopago.

2. Cómo se propaga el COVID-19

Se cree que el COVID-19 se propaga principalmente por el contacto cercano de persona a persona a través de gotitas respiratorias de una persona infectada. Las personas que están infectadas suelen tener los síntomas de la enfermedad. Algunas personas que no presentan síntomas pueden propagar el virus.

El COVID-19 es una enfermedad nueva y todavía seguimos aprendiendo acerca de la forma en la que se propaga y la gravedad de la enfermedad.

Propagación de persona a persona 

Se piensa que el virus se propaga principalmente de persona a persona. 

• Entre personas que están en contacto cercano (a una distancia de hasta aproximadamente 6 pies).
• A través de gotitas respiratorias que se producen cuando una persona infectada tose, estornuda o habla.
• Estas gotitas pueden terminar en la boca o en la nariz de quienes se encuentran cerca o posiblemente ser inhaladas y llegar a los pulmones.
• Algunos estudios recientes sugieren que el COVID-19 puede propagarse a través de personas que no presentan síntomas.

Mantener un buen distanciamiento social (aproximadamente 6 pies) es muy importante para prevenir la propagación del COVID-19.

Propagación a través del contacto con superficies u objetos contaminados

Podría ser posible que una persona contraiga el COVID-19 al tocar una superficie u objeto que tenga el virus y luego se toque la boca, la nariz o posiblemente los ojos. No se cree que esta sea la principal forma en que se propaga el virus, pero aún estamos aprendiendo acerca del virus.

Lávese las manos con agua y jabón frecuentemente. Si no hay agua y jabón, use un limpiador de manos a base de alcohol. Además, limpie de manera rutinaria las superficies que se tocan con frecuencia.

Con qué facilidad se propaga el virus

La facilidad con la que el virus se propaga de persona a persona puede variar. Algunos virus son muy contagiosos, como el del sarampión, mientras que otros virus no se propagan tan fácilmente. Otro factor que hay que tener en cuenta es si la propagación es sostenida, es decir, se propaga de manera continua de persona a persona.

El virus que causa el COVID-19 se propaga muy fácilmente y de manera continua entre las personas. La información sobre la pandemia en curso del COVID-19 sugiere que este virus se propaga de manera más eficiente que el virus de la influenza, pero no tan eficientemente como el del sarampión, que es un virus altamente contagioso.

Más información

Serie de videos en ASL: ¿Cómo se propaga el COVID-19?

3. Cómo protegerse y proteger a los demás

Los adultos mayores y las personas con afecciones subyacentes graves, como enfermedades cardíacas o pulmonares o diabetes, al parecer tienen mayor riesgo de presentar complicaciones graves a causa del COVID-19. Encuentre más información en la página ¿Tiene usted un mayor riesgo de presentar un caso grave de enfermedad?

ícono de cabeza de lado tosiendo

Cómo se propaga

• En estos momentos no existe una vacuna para prevenir la enfermedad del coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19).
• La mejor manera de prevenir la enfermedad es evitar la exposición a este virus.
• Se cree que el virus se propaga principalmente de persona a persona..
• 
  
  • Entre personas que están en contacto cercano (a una distancia de hasta aproximadamente 6 pies).
  • A través de gotitas respiratorias que se producen cuando una persona infectada tose, estornuda o habla.
  • Estas gotitas pueden terminar en la boca o en la nariz de quienes se encuentran cerca o posiblemente ser inhaladas y llegar a los pulmones.
  • Algunos estudios recientes sugieren que el COVID-19 puede propagarse a través de personas que no presentan síntomas.

Todas las personas deberían

ícono de lavado de manos

Lavarse las manos frecuentemente

• Lávese las manos con frecuencia con agua y jabón por al menos 20 segundos, especialmente después de haber estado en un lugar público, o después de sonarse la nariz, toser o estornudar.
• Si no dispone de agua y jabón, use un desinfectante de manos que contenga al menos un 60 % de alcohol. Cubra todas las superficies de las manos y frótelas hasta que sienta que se secaron.
• Evite tocarse los ojos, la nariz y la boca sin haberse lavado las manos.

ícono de personas con flechas

Evitar el contacto directo

• Evite el contacto cercano con personas que están enfermas
• Quédese en casa tanto como sea posible.ícono de pdfícono de sitio externo | [Englishícono de pdfícono de sitio externo]
• Ponga distancia entre usted y las demás personas.

• Recuerde que algunas personas que no tienen síntomas pueden propagar el virus.
• Mantener distancia con los demás es especialmente importante para las personas que tienen mayor riesgo de enfermarse gravemente.

ícono de cabeza con mascarilla

Cubrirse la boca y la nariz con una cubierta de tela para cara al estar rodeados de personas

• Usted podría propagar el COVID-19 incluso si no se siente enfermo.
• Todos deberían usar una cubierta de tela para cara cuando salen de sus casas, por ejemplo, para ir a la tienda de comestibles o para buscar otros productos necesarios.
  • Las cubiertas de tela para cara no se deberían usar en niños menores de 2 años ni en personas con problemas respiratorios o que estén inconscientes, incapacitadas o no sean capaces de quitárselas sin ayuda.
• La cubierta de tela para cara es para proteger a las demás personas en caso de que usted esté infectado.
• NO use una mascarilla destinada a los trabajadores de la salud.
• Siga manteniendo una distancia de aproximadamente 6 pies de las demás personas. La cubierta de tela para cara no reemplaza las medidas de distanciamiento social.

ícono de caja de pañuelos desechables

Cubrirse la boca al toser y estornudar

• Si se encuentra en un ámbito privado y no tiene puesta la cubierta de tela para la cara, recuerde siempre cubrirse la boca y la nariz con un pañuelo desechable o con la parte interna del codo al toser o estornudar.
• Bote los pañuelos desechables usados a la basura.
• Lávese las manos inmediatamente con agua y jabón por al menos 20 segundos. Si no dispone de agua y jabón, límpiese las manos con un desinfectante de manos que contenga al menos un 60 % de alcohol.

ícono de limpieza

Limpiar y desinfectar

• Limpie Y desinfecte diariamente las superficies que se tocan con frecuencia . Esto incluye las mesas, las manijas de las puertas, los interruptores de luz, los mesones, las barandas, los escritorios, los teléfonos, los teclados, los inodoros, los grifos, los lavamanos y los lavaplatos.
• Si las superficies están sucias, límpielas. Lávelas con agua y detergente o jabón antes de desinfectarlas.
• Luego, use un desinfectante de uso doméstico. La mayoría de los desinfectantes comunes para el hogar registrados en la EPAícono de sitio externo funcionarán.

4. Si está enfermo o debe cuidar a alguien

Qué hacer si está enfermo

Si tiene fiebre, tos u otros síntomas, podría tener COVID-19. La mayoría de las personas tienen una enfermedad leve y logran recuperarse en casa. Si cree que pudo haber estado expuesto al COVID-19, contacte de inmediato a su proveedor de atención médica.

• Haga un seguimiento de sus síntomas.
• Si tiene un signo de advertencia de emergencia (incluida dificultad para respirar), busque atención médica de inmediato.

Medidas para ayudar a prevenir la propagación del COVID-19 si está enfermo

Tome estas medidas:  Si tiene COVID-19 o cree que podría tener COVID-19, tome estas medidas para cuidarse y ayudar a proteger a otras personas de su hogar y su comunidad.

ícono de casa con persona adentro

Quédese en casa, excepto para conseguir atención médica

• Permanezca en el hogar. La mayoría de las personas con COVID-19 tienen una enfermedad leve y puedan recuperarse en casa sin atención médica. No salga de su casa, excepto para buscar atención médica. No visite áreas públicas.
• Cuídese. Descanse y manténgase hidratado.
• Manténgase en contacto con su médico. Llame antes de recibir atención médica. Asegúrese de obtener atención médica si tiene problemas para respirar o tiene algún signo de advertencia de emergencia, o si considera que se trata de una emergencia.
• Evite el transporte público, los vehículos compartidos y los taxis.

ícono de cama

Manténgase alejado de otras personas

En la medida de lo posible, permanezca en una misma habitación y alejado de otras personas y mascotas en su casa. También debería usar otro baño, si tiene uno disponible. Si necesita estar con otras personas o animales dentro o fuera de su casa, use una cubierta de tela para cara.

• Vea COVID-19 y los animales si tiene preguntas sobre las mascotas.

ícono de temperatura alta

Vigile sus síntomas

• Los síntomas de COVID-19 incluyen fiebre, tos u otros los síntomas. La dificultad para respirar es un síntoma más grave que significa que debe recibir atención médica.
• Siga las instrucciones de cuidado de su proveedor de atención médica y departamento de salud local. Las autoridades de salud locales le brindarán indicaciones sobre cómo verificar sus síntomas y notificar la información.

¿Cuándo buscar atención médica?

Si tiene alguno de estos signos de advertencia de emergencia* de COVID-19, pida atención médica de inmediato:

• Dificultad para respirar
• Dolor o presión persistente en el pecho
• Confusión o dificultad para estar alerta que no haya tenido antes
• Coloración azulada en los labios o el rostro 

*Esta lista no incluye todo. Consulte a su proveedor de servicios médicos por cualquier otro síntoma grave o que lo preocupe.

Llame al 911 si tiene una emergencia médica: informe al operador que tiene, o cree que podría tener, COVID-19. De ser posible, colóquese una cubierta de tela para cara antes de que llegue el personal de servicios médicos.

ícono de celular

Llame antes de ir al médico

• Llame antes. Muchas visitas médicas de rutina se están posponiendo o realizando por teléfono o telemedicina.
• Si tiene una cita médica que no puede posponer, llame al consultorio de su médico e infórmeles que tiene o podría tener COVID-19. Esto ayudará al personal del consultorio a protegerse y proteger a otros pacientes.

ícono de cabeza con mascarilla

Si está enfermo, use una cubierta de tela para la cara sobre su nariz y boca

• Debería usar una cubierta de tela para la cara, que cubra la nariz y la boca si debe estar rodeado de otras personas o animales, incluidas las mascotas (incluso en su casa).
• No necesita usar la cubierta de tela para cara si está solo. Si no puede ponerse una cubierta de tela para la cara (por ejemplo, porque tiene dificultad para respirar), cúbrase de alguna otra manera al toser y estornudar. Procure mantenerse a al menos 6 pies de distancia de otras personas. Esto ayudará a proteger a las personas que lo rodean.

Nota: Durante la pandemia del COVID-19, las mascarillas de uso médico están reservadas para los trabajadores de la salud y cierto personal de respuesta a emergencias. Es posible que deba improvisar una cubierta de tela para la cara con una bufanda o un pañuelo.

ícono de caja de pañuelos desechables

Cúbrase la nariz y la boca al toser y estornudar

• Cúbrase la boca y la nariz con un pañuelo desechable al toser o estornudar.
• Bote los pañuelos desechables usados en un cesto de basura con bolsa.
• Lávese las manos inmediatamente con agua y jabón por al menos 20 segundos. Si no dispone de agua y jabón, límpielas con un desinfectante de manos a base de alcohol que contenga al menos un 60 % de alcohol.

ícono de lavado de manos

Límpiese las manos con frecuencia 

• Lávese las manos con frecuencia con agua y jabón por al menos 20 segundos. Esto es de suma importancia luego de sonarse la nariz, toser o estornudar, después de ir al baño, y antes de comer o preparar comidas.
• Use un desinfectante de manos si no tiene agua y jabón. Use un desinfectante de manos a base de alcohol con al menos un 60 % de alcohol, y cubra toda la superficie de sus manos frotándolas entre sí hasta sentirlas secas.
• El agua y el jabón son la mejor opción, en especial si las manos están visiblemente sucias.
• Evite tocarse los ojos, la nariz y la boca con las manos sin lavar.
• Consejos sobre el lavado de manos

ícono de no

Evite compartir artículos del hogar de uso personal

• No comparta platos, vasos, tazas, cubiertos, toallas o ropa de cama con otras personas de su casa.
• Luego de usar estos artículos, lávelos bien con agua y jabón o colóquelos en el lavaplatos.

ícono de limpieza

Limpie todas las superficies de "contacto frecuente" todos los días

• Limpie y desinfecte las superficies de contacto frecuente en la "habitación del enfermo" y el baño. Permita que otra persona limpie y desinfecte las superficies en las áreas comunes, pero no su habitación y baño.
• Si un cuidador u otra persona necesita limpiar y desinfectar la habitación o el baño de una persona enferma, debe hacerlo según sea necesario. El cuidador u otra persona debe usar mascarilla y esperar tanto como sea posible luego de que la persona enferma haya usado el baño.

Las superficies de contacto frecuente incluyen teléfonos, controles remotos, mostradores, mesones, manijas de puertas, grifería del baño, inodoros, teclados, tabletas y mesas de noche.

• Limpie y desinfecte las áreas que puedan tener sangre, heces o líquidos corporales en su superficie.
• Use limpiadores y desinfectantes de uso doméstico. Limpie el área u objeto con agua y jabón u otro detergente si está sucio. Luego, use un desinfectante de uso doméstico.
• 
  
  • Asegúrese de seguir las instrucciones que figuran en la etiqueta para garantizar un uso seguro y eficaz del producto. Muchos productos recomiendan mantener la superficie húmeda durante algunos minutos para asegurar la eliminación de los microbios. Muchos también recomiendan tomar ciertas precauciones, como usar guantes y asegurarse de tener buena ventilación mientras esté usando el producto.
  • La mayoría de los desinfectantes de uso doméstico registrados en la EPA deberían ser efectivos. Podrá encontrar una lista completa de desinfectantes aquíícono de sitio externo.
  • Guía completa para la desinfección

ícono de salir de casa

Cómo discontinuar el aislamiento en el hogar

Las personas con COVID-19 que se han quedado en su casa (aislamiento en el hogar) pueden finalizar este aislamiento bajo las siguientes condiciones:

• Si no se hará la prueba para determinar si aún es contagioso, puede salir de su casa cuando se cumplan estas tres condiciones:
  • No haber tenido fiebre durante al menos 72 horas (es decir, tres días completos sin fiebre, sin el uso de medicamentos para reducirla)
    Y
  • que hayan mejorado los otros síntomas (por ejemplo, que hayan mejorado su tos y dificultad para respirar)
    Y
  • que hayan pasado al menos 7 días desde la aparición de los síntomas
• Si se hará la prueba para determinar si aún es contagioso, puede salir de su casa cuando se cumplan estas tres condiciones:
  • Que ya no tenga fiebre (sin el uso de medicamentos para reducirla)
    Y
  • que hayan mejorado los otros síntomas (por ejemplo, que hayan mejorado su tos y dificultad para respirar)
    Y
  • tener resultados negativos en dos pruebas seguidas, con 24 horas de diferencia. Su médico seguirá las directrices de los CDC.

En todos los casos, siga las guías de su proveedor de atención médica y departamento de salud local. La decisión de finalizar el aislamiento en el hogar debería tomarse con el asesoramiento de su proveedor de atención médica y departamentos de salud estatal y local. Las decisiones locales dependen de las circunstancias locales.

Si tiene alguna otra duda sobre su cuidado, comuníquese con su proveedor de atención médica o llame a su departamento de salud estatal o local.

ícono de servicios médicos

Para profesionales de atención médica

No existe ningún tratamiento antiviral específico que se recomiende para el COVID-19. Las personas con COVID-19 deben recibir cuidados de apoyo para ayudar a aliviar los síntomas.  Para los casos graves, el tratamiento debe incluir atención médica para apoyar el funcionamiento de los órganos vitales.

• Cómo evaluar y realizar exámenes de detección a pacientes por COVID-19
• Control y prevención de infecciones en entornos de atención médica
• Guía para discontinuar el aislamiento

5. Cuidar a una persona enferma en casa o en otros entornos que no son de atención médica

Consejos para cuidadores

Si cuida a una persona con COVID-19 en entornos que no son de atención médica, siga estos consejos para protegerse y proteger a otras personas. Sepa qué hacer cuando una persona tiene síntomas de COVID-19 o cuando le diagnosticaron el virus. Esta información también alcanza a las personas con pruebas de laboratorio con resultado positivo que no manifiestan síntomas.

*Nota: Los adultos mayores o las personas de cualquier edad con afecciones subyacentes graves, como enfermedad pulmonar crónica, afecciones cardiacas graves o diabetes, corren mayor riesgo de enfermarse gravemente a causa del COVID-19. Las personas con mayor riesgo de enfermarse gravemente deben llamar a sus médicos ni bien aparecen los síntomas.

Brinde apoyo y ayude a cubrir las necesidades básicas

• Ayude a la persona enferma a seguir las instrucciones de cuidado y medicamentos de su médico.
  • En la mayoría de los casos, los síntomas duran pocos días y las personas se sienten mejor después de una semana.
• Pruebe si los medicamentos de venta sin receta médica, como el acetaminofeno, ayudan a la persona a sentirse mejor.
• Procure que la persona enferma beba mucho líquido y descanse.
• Ayúdela con las compras de comestibles, a surtir sus medicamentos y acceder a otros artículos que puedan necesitar. Evalúe recurrir a un servicio de entrega a domicilio de los artículos siempre que sea posible.
• Cuide a sus mascotas y limite el contacto de la persona enferma con sus mascotas siempre que sea posible.

Esté atento a los signos de alarma

• Tenga a mano el número de teléfono del médico de la persona que cuida.
• Use la herramienta de autoverificación de los CDC, que puede ayudarle a decidir si es necesario pedir atención médica.
• Si el estado de la persona empeora, llame a su médico. Para emergencias médicas, llame al 911 y dígale al operador de despacho que la persona tiene o podría tener COVID-19.

Las personas con signos de advertencia de emergencia por COVID-19 deben llamar al 911 de inmediato. Los signos de advertencia de emergencia incluyen*:

• Dificultad para respirar o falta de aire
• Dolor o presión persistente en el pecho
• Confusión o dificultad para despertarse de aparición reciente
• Coloración azulada en los labios o el rostro 

*Estos no son todos los síntomas o signos de emergencia.

Protéjase si cuida a una persona enferma

Limite el contacto

El COVID-19 se propaga entre las personas en contacto estrecho (a una distancia de hasta aproximadamente 6 pies), a través de las gotitas respiratorias que una persona produce al hablar, toser o estornudar.

• Siempre que sea posible, el cuidador no debe estar en contacto con una persona con mayor riesgo de enfermarse gravemente a causa del COVID-19.
• Use una habitación y un baño separados: si es posible, la persona enferma debe permanecer en su propia "habitación o área para personas enfermas", alejada de las demás personas. Si es posible, la persona enferma debe usar otro baño.
• Espacios compartidos: si debe compartir el espacio, procure que haya buena circulación de aire en el ambiente.
  • Abra la ventana y encienda un ventilador (si es posible) para aumentar la circulación de aire.
  • Mejorar la ventilación ayuda a eliminar las gotitas respiratorias del aire.

Evite recibir visitas: evite cualquier visita innecesaria, especialmente si se trata de personas con riesgo más alto de enfermarse gravemente.

Coman en habitaciones o áreas separadas

• Manténgase alejados: la persona enferma debe comer (o se la debe alimentar) en su propia habitación, siempre que sea posible.
• Lave los platos y utensilios con guantes y agua caliente: use guantes para manipular los platos, tazas/vasos o cubiertos utilizados por la persona que está enferma. Lávelos con jabón y agua caliente o en el lavavajillas.

Límpiese las manos después de quitarse los guantes o manipular artículos usados.

Evite compartir artículos personales

• No compartan cosas: no comparta platos, tazas/vasos, cubiertos, toallas, ropa de cama ni artículos electrónicos con la persona enferma.

Cuando usar una cubierta de tela para la cara o guantes

• Persona enferma:
  • La persona enferma debe usar una cubierta de tela para la cara cuando está cerca de otras personas en el hogar y cuando sale (incluso antes de ingresar al consultorio del médico).
  • La cubierta de tela para la cara ayuda a evitar que una persona enferma propague el virus a otras personas. Contiene las gotitas respiratorias para que no lleguen a otras personas.
  • No se deben colocar cubiertas de tela para la cara a niños pequeños menores de 2 años, ni a personas con dificultad para respirar o que no estén en condiciones de quitarse la cubierta sin ayuda.
•  Cuidador:
  • Use guantes al tocar o tener contacto con sangre, deposiciones o fluidos corporales como saliva, moco, vómito y orina. Bote los guantes en un cesto de basura con bolsa.
  • Un cuidador puede usar una cubierta de tela para la cara al cuidar a una persona enferma. Sin embargo, se desconoce el efecto de protección (es decir, qué eficacia tiene la cubierta de tela para la cara para proteger a las personas sanas de la inhalación del virus).
    • Para evitar enfermarse, recuerde poner en práctica las medidas preventivas cotidianas: lavarse las manos con frecuencia, evitar tocarse los ojos, la boca y la nariz si no se lavó las manos, limpiar y desinfectar superficies con frecuencia.

Nota: Durante la pandemia del COVID-19, las mascarillas de uso médico están reservadas para los trabajadores de la salud y cierto personal de respuesta a emergencias. Es posible que deba improvisar una cubierta de tela para la cara con una bufanda o un pañuelo. Conozca más aquí.

Límpiese las manos con frecuencia 

• Lávese las manos: lávese las manos frecuentemente con agua y jabón por al menos 20 segundos. Instruya a todos los integrantes del hogar para que hagan lo mismo, especialmente después de haber estado cerca de la persona enferma.
• Desinfectante de manos: si no hay agua y jabón disponibles, use un desinfectante de manos que contenga al menos un 60 % de alcohol. Cubra todas las superficies de las manos y frótelas hasta que sienta que se secaron.
• No tocar: evite tocarse los ojos, la nariz y la boca sin haberse lavado las manos antes.

Consejos sobre el lavado de manos

Limpie y luego desinfecte

En la casa

• Limpie y desinfecte las superficies y artículos de "contacto frecuente" todos los días: esto incluye mesas, manijas de las puertas, interruptores de luz, manijas, escritorios, inodoros, grifos, lavabos y artículos electrónicos.
• Si está sucia, limpie el área o el artículo con agua y jabón. Luego use un desinfectante de uso doméstico.
  • Recuerde seguir las instrucciones de la etiqueta para garantizar que está usando el producto de manera segura y eficaz. En el caso de muchos productos, la recomendación es mantener la superficie húmeda por unos minutos para eliminar los gérmenes. Muchos fabricantes de productos también recomiendan usar guantes, garantizar una buena circulación de aire o quitar el producto con un paño o enjuagarlo después del uso.
  • La mayoría de los desinfectantes de uso doméstico deberían ser eficaces. Puede ver un listado de los desinfectantes registrados en la EPA aquíícono de sitio externo.
  • Para limpiar artículos electrónicos, siga las instrucciones del fabricante de todos los productos de limpieza y desinfección. Si no hay indicaciones disponibles, use toallitas a base de alcohol o un rociador que contenga al menos un 70 % de alcohol.

Habitación y baño

• Si usa una habitación y un baño separados: solo debe limpiar el área en torno a la persona enferma cuando sea necesario, por ejemplo cuando está sucia. Esto ayuda a limitar el contacto con la persona enferma.
  • Si se siente bien, la persona enferma puede limpiar su propio espacio. Entréguele a las persona enferma artículos de limpieza personales como pañuelos desechables, toallas de papel, productos de limpieza y desinfectantes registrados en la EPAícono de sitio externo.
• Si comparten el baño: la persona enferma debe limpiarlo y desinfectarlo después de cada uso. Si esto no es posible, el cuidador y los miembros del hogar deben esperar el mayor tiempo posible para ingresar al baño y limpiarlo y desinfectarlo antes de usarlo.

Lave y seque la ropa sucia

• No sacuda la ropa sucia.
• Use guantes desechables para manipular la ropa sucia.
• La ropa sucia de una persona enferma se puede lavar con la de otras personas.
• Lave las prendas según las instrucciones de la etiqueta. Use la temperatura de agua máxima permitida.
• Quítese los guantes y lávese las manos de inmediato.
• Seque la ropa lavada, en configuración caliente de ser posible, y completamente.
• Lávese las manos después de colocar la ropa en la secadora.
• Limpie y desinfecte los botes para ropa sucia. Lávese las manos después de eso.

Use un cesto de basura con bolsa

• Bote lo guantes desechables y otros artículos contaminados en un cesto de basura con bolsa.
• Use guantes para retirar las bolsas de basura, y para manipular y desechar los residuos. Lávese las manos al terminar.
• Bote todos los guantes y mascarillas desechables, así como otros artículos contaminados, en un cesto de basura con bolsa.
• De ser posible, use un cesto de basura con bolsa exclusivo para los artículos de la persona enferma.

Monitoree su propia salud

• Los cuidadores y contactos cercanos deben monitorear su salud para detectar síntomas de COVID-19.
  • Los síntomas frecuentes incluyen fiebre, tos y dificultad para respirar. La dificultad para respirar es el signo de advertencia más grave de que puede necesitar atención médica.
• Use la herramienta de autoverificación de los CDC, que puede ayudarle a decidir si es necesario pedir atención médica.
• Si tiene dificultad para respirar, llame al 911.
  • Llame a su médico o a la sala de emergencias e infórmeles sobre sus síntomas antes de salir. Le dirán qué debe hacer.

Cuándo es seguro estar en contacto con otras personas: final del aislamiento en casa

Las personas con COVID-19 o sus síntomas que:

• se están recuperando en casa (u otro entorno no hospitalario) y
• no se harán pruebas de detección para determinar si ya no son contagiosas

pueden salir de su "habitación para enfermos" y de sus casas si:

• No tuvieron fiebre por al menos 72 horas (esto significa tres días completos sin fiebre) sin tomar medicamentos para bajar la fiebre
  Y
• Mejoraron sus otros síntomas (por ejemplo, si mejoró su tos o dificultad para respirar)
  Y
• Pasaron al menos 7 días desde la aparición de sus síntomas

Las personas con COVID-19 o sus síntomas que:

• se están recuperando en casa (u otro entorno no hospitalario) y
• se harán pruebas de detección para determinar si ya no son contagiosas

pueden salir de su "habitación para enfermos" y de sus casas si:

• Ya no tienen fiebre (sin tomar medicamentos para bajar la fiebre)
  Y
• Mejoraron sus otros síntomas (por ejemplo, si mejoró su tos o dificultad para respirar)
  Y
• Se hicieron dos pruebas de detección con resultado negativo consecutivas, con 24 horas de diferencia

Las personas que NO tienen síntomas de COVID-19, pero el resultado de su prueba de detección fue positivo y que:

• están cumpliendo el aislamiento voluntario en sus casas (u otro entorno no hospitalario)

pueden dejar su "habitación para personas enfermas" y salir de sus casas si:

• Pasaron al menos 7 días desde la fecha en que la prueba de detección fue positiva

Y

• Siguen sin tener síntomas (no tienen tos ni dificultad para respirar) desde que se hicieron la prueba

Este grupo debe seguir limitando el contacto (mantener una distancia de 6 o más de otras personas) durante 3 días más y usar una cubierta para la cara que cubra su nariz y boca si hay otras personas presentes (incluso en casa).

Para TODAS las personas

• Al salir de casa, se debe mantener una distancia de 6 pies con respecto a otras personas y usar una cubierta de tela para la cara cuando hay otras personas cerca.

Siga las guías de los proveedores de atención médica y el departamento de salud local. La decisión de suspender el aislamiento en casa se debe tomar en coordinación con su proveedor de atención médica y los departamentos de salud estatales y locales. Las decisiones locales dependen de las circunstancias locales.

Más información acerca de cuándo suspender el aislamiento en casa.

Arriba

6. Cómo limpiar y desinfectar su establecimiento

Medidas diarias, medidas cuando alguien está enfermo y consideraciones para empleadores 

Cómo limpiar y desinfectar
 Use guantes desechables para limpiar y desinfectar.

Limpie

• Limpie las superficies con agua y jabón. Practique la limpieza de rutina de las superficies que se tocan con más frecuencia.

Las superficies de contacto frecuente incluyen:
Mesas, manijas de las puertas, interruptores de luz, mesones, manijas, escritorios, teléfonos, teclados, inodoros, grifos, lavabos, etc.

Desinfecte

• Limpie el área u objeto con agua y jabón u otro detergente si está sucio. Luego, use desinfectante.
• Recomiende el uso de desinfectantes de uso doméstico registrados por la EPAícono de sitio externo.
  Siga las instrucciones que figuran en la etiqueta para garantizar un uso seguro y eficaz del producto.
  Muchos productos recomiendan:
  • Mantener húmeda la superficie por un tiempo (vea la etiqueta del producto)
  • Precauciones como el uso de guantes y asegurarse de ventilar bien los ambientes durante el uso del producto.
• También se pueden usar soluciones de cloro diluido si son apropiadas para la superficie.
  • Revise la etiqueta para confirmar si el producto blanqueador con cloro es apto para desinfección y verifique que no esté vencido. Algunos blanqueadores con cloro, como los diseñados para usar de manera segura sobre ropa de color o para blanquear, posiblemente no sean útiles para desinfectar.
  • El blanqueador con cloro que no esté vencido será eficaz contra los coronavirus si se diluye adecuadamente.
    Siga las instrucciones del fabricante para conocer la forma de aplicación y ventile el ambiente. Nunca mezcle el blanqueador con cloro con amoníaco ni con otros productos de limpieza.
    Deje la solución sobre la superficie por al menos 1 minuto.
    
    Para hacer una solución de cloro, mezcle:
  • 5 cucharadas (1/3 de taza) de blanqueador con cloro por galón de agua
    O
  • 4 cucharaditas de blanqueador con cloro por cuarto de galón de agua
• También puede utilizar soluciones con al menos un 70 % de alcohol.

Superficies blandas

En superficies blandas como pisos alfombrados, tapetes y cortinas

• Limpie la superficie con agua y jabón o utilice limpiadores apropiados para esas superficies.

• Lave los objetos (de ser posible) según las instrucciones del fabricante.Use la máxima temperatura de agua permitida y séquelos completamente.

  O

• Desinféctelos con un desinfectante de uso doméstico registrado por la EPA. Estos desinfectantesícono de sitio externo cumplen los criterios de la EPA para combatir el COVID-19.

Artículos electrónicos

En artículos electrónicos, como tablets, pantallas táctiles, teclados, controles remotos y cajeros automáticos

• Considere colocarles a los artículos electrónicos una funda que pueda limpiarse 
• Siga las instrucciones del fabricante sobre cómo usar el producto para limpiar y desinfectar.
  • Si no se incluye ninguna instrucción, use toallitas a base de alcohol o rociadores que contengan al menos un 70 % de alcohol. Seque la superficie por completo.

Ropa

Para lavar ropa, toallas, ropa de cama y otros artículos

• Lave los artículos según las instrucciones del fabricante. Use la máxima temperatura de agua permitida y seque los artículos completamente.
• Use guantes desechables al manipular ropa sucia de una persona enferma.
• La ropa sucia de una persona enferma se puede lavar con la de las demás personas.
• No sacuda la ropa sucia.
• Limpie y desinfecte los cestos de ropa según la guía para superficies detallada arriba.
• Al quitarse los guantes lávese las manos de inmediato.

Cómo limpiar y desinfectar su edificio o establecimiento si alguien está enfermo

• Cierre las áreas utilizadas por la persona enferma.
• Abra las puertas y ventanas exteriores para aumentar la circulación de aire en el área. Espere 24 horas antes de limpiar o desinfectar. Si no puede dejar pasar 24 horas, espere tanto como sea posible.
• Limpie y desinfecte todas las áreas utilizadas por la persona enferma, como oficinas, baños, y áreas comunes, además de los equipos electrónicos compartidos, como tablets, pantallas táctiles, teclados, controles remotos y cajeros automáticos.
• Si pasaron más de 7 días desde que la persona enferma estuvo en el establecimiento o utilizó las instalaciones, no es necesario realizar tareas de limpieza y desinfección adicionales.
  • Continuar con la limpieza y desinfección habituales.

Al limpiar

• Use guantes y batas desechables para todas las tareas involucradas en el proceso de limpieza, incluida la manipulación de basura.
  • Podría requerirse el uso de equipo de protección personal (EPP) adicional según los productos de limpieza/desinfección que se utilicen y si existe riesgo de salpicadura.
  • Los guantes y batas deben retirarse cuidadosamente para evitar contaminar a quien los lleva puestos así como al área circundante.
• Lávese las manos frecuentemente con agua y jabón durante 20 segundos.
• 
  
  • Lávese siempre las manos de inmediato después de quitarse guantes y luego de tener contacto con una persona enferma.
  • Desinfectante de manos: si no dispone de agua y jabón y sus manos no están visiblemente sucias, puede usar un desinfectante de manos a base de alcohol que contenga al menos un 60 % de alcohol. No obstante, si sus manos están visiblemente sucias, siempre debe lavárselas con agua y jabón.
• Otros momentos clave en que debe lavarse las manos incluyen:
  • Después de sonarse la nariz, toser o estornudar.
  • Después de ir al baño.
  • Antes de comer o preparar la comida.
  • Después de estar en contacto con animales o mascotas.
  • Antes y después de brindar cuidados de rutina a otra persona que necesite asistencia (p. ej., un niño).

Consideraciones adicionales para empleadores

• Enseñe a los trabajadores que desempeñan tareas de limpieza, lavandería y recolección de residuos a reconocer los síntomas del COVID-19.
• Brinde instrucciones sobre lo que deben hacer si desarrollan síntomas dentro de los 14 días posteriores a su última posible exposición al virus.
• Desarrolle políticas para la protección de los trabajadores y ofrezca capacitación a todo el personal de limpieza en el lugar antes de que desempeñen cualquier tarea de limpieza.
  • La capacitación debe explicar cuándo usar el EPP, qué EPP se necesita, cómo colocarse, usar y quitarse correctamente el EPP, y cómo desechar correctamente el EPP.
• Asegúrese de que los trabajadores reciban capacitación en cuanto al riesgo de los productos químicos de limpieza usados en el lugar de trabajo de conformidad con la Norma de Comunicación de Riesgos de la OSHA (29 CFR 1 910.12ícono de sitio externo).
• Cumpla con los estándares de la OSHA sobre microbios patógenos transmitidos por la sangre (29 CFR 1 910.1ícono de sitio externo), incluida la eliminación adecuada de residuos regulados, y EPP (29 CFR 1 910.13ícono de sitio externo).

En establecimientos que alojan personas por la noche:

• Siga las directrices de los CDC para institutos de formación profesional y universidades. Trabaje en conjunto con los funcionarios de salud locales y estatales para determinar la mejor manera de aislar a las personas enfermas, y si se requiere alojamiento temporal.
• Para ver la guía sobre cómo limpiar y desinfectar la habitación/baño de alguien enfermo, consulte la guía de los CDC sobre cómo desinfectar su hogar si alguien está enfermo.

Guía detallada de desinfección para centros comunitarios

Guía detallada de desinfección para vehículos de transporte

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COVID-19/ Novel Coronavirus

Show All Answers

1. What Do I Need to Know About The COVID-19?

Coronavirus is a type of virus that causes diseases of varying severities, ranging from the common cold to more serious respiratory disease. A novel (new) coronavirus is a new strain of coronavirus that hasn’t been identified before in humans. 

• Protective face masks are one time use and should be thrown away daily. The overuse of single use masks may increase your chances of becoming sick.

Please call the ISDH Epidemiology Resource Center at 317-233-7125 [317-233-1325 after hours] or e-mail epiresource@isdh.in.gov if you experience symptoms such as fever, cough and shortness of breath and have a recent history of travel to China or contact with someone suspected of having COVID-19.

CDC’s frequently asked questions -> https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/faq.html#symptoms 

2. How Is It Spread?

• Through coughing and sneezing.
• Close personal contact, such as touching or shaking hands.
• Because novel coronavirus is new, we are learning more each day about the transmission patterns and incubation periods.
• Touching an object or surface with the virus on it, then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes before washing your hands.\
• Evidence suggest that older adults and people who have chronic medical conditions like heart, lung, or kidney disease seem to be at higher risk for more serious COVID-19 illness.

3. What Are The Symptoms?

• Fever
• Cough
• Difficulty breathing
• Severe Illness
• Notify your doctor if you feel sick with these symptoms or if you are not certain.
• Seek urgent medical help if you experience increasing difficulty breathing, chest pain, or confusion.

4. What Can I Do To Protect Myself?

Hand Hygiene

• Wash with soap and water for 20 seconds, especially after blowing your nose, sneezing, or coughing.
• Wash hands after touching public surfaces.
• Alternatively use hand sanitizer (60% or higher alcohol) when hand washing is not a viable option.

Avoid...

• Avoid contact with people who are sick.
• Avoid touching high touch surfaces like elevator buttons, door handles, hand rails, handshaking.
• Avoid touching face, nose, eyes, mouth, etc.
• Avoid crowds, especially in poorly ventilated spaces.
• Clean hands often.
• Use tissue or sleeves to cover hands for needed touching.
• Stay home as much as possible if COVID-19 is spreading in your community.

Clean

• Clean and disinfect homes and work spaces including light switches, door handles, tables, desks, toilets, faucets, sinks, cell phones, and computer keyboards.

Coverings

• CDC recommends People may choose to mask at any time. People with symptoms, a positive test, or exposure to someone with COVID-19 should wear a mask.

5. Is there local testing?

(LINK) link to all ISDH provided testing sites

Below are the known test locations with pre-registration requirements. Call these sites directly for more information. If you are unsure about the tests, you can consult the Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH) call center for clarification.

If you need to see the state-generated map for test sites within the state of Indiana, the following link will take you there. Click here to view the state testing map.

• You can check the Indiana State Department of Health’s COVID hotline for more information. Click for the ISDH website .

ISDH Hotline: 317-233-7125

After Hours ISDH Hotline: 219-233-1325

ISDH Free line 24 hours a day, 7 days a week: 877-826-0011

• CVS (Munster, In) - Monday through Friday 

Number: 219-924-2491

Appointment needed: YES, online.

www.cvs.com

• Midwest Express Clinic   

Monday through Friday 8 am - 6pm / Saturday & Sunday 8 - 6 pm

Directory Number: 219-802-8800

Munster - (219) 513-2000

Schereville - (219) 440-7373

Crown Point - (219) 769-1362

Merrillville - 219-707-5276

• 219 Health Network (East Chicago) - Monday through Thursday 8:30 am -4:30 pm

Number: 219-392- 7016

Appointment needed: Yes

• Walgreens - Monday through Friday 9 am - 5 pm 

Number: 219-397-6911

Cost: Free

Appointment needed: YES

• Marram Health Center - Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday 9:30am - 3pm

Number: 219-806-3000

Appointment needed: YES

• Edgewater Health - Monday through Friday 9 am - 4pm

Number: 219-885-4264

Appointment needed: NO

6. A Guide to Home-Proofing For Flu, Coronavirus And Other Illnesses

How to Disinfect Frequently Touched Objects and Deep-Cleans (Click for Full Article)
Written by the SafeHome Team Updated March, 2020

This guide explains why your home is an important front in the battle against germs and viruses, and covers best practices for cleaning everyday objects, keeping the home safe, and what to do before, after and during your family and guests visit.

No matter how organized and health-conscious you are, it can be tricky to virus-proof your home. Here’s why:

• People are too familiar with their homes and easily miss danger spots.
• Homes have many potentially risky surfaces such as kitchen sponges, desks, dishcloths, floors, soap dispensers and toilets.
• Visitors may introduce germs and viruses into the home after you’ve cleaned.
• No one wants to constantly clean.
• You may be caring for a sick person in your home.
• Keeping a home clean requires frequent handwashing. Even adults have a hard time summoning the energy to wash their hands seemingly every 30 minutes.

View from the Experts: Protecting Your Home Against Flu, Coronavirus and Other Illnesses

“If you’re sick, it does make sense to steer clear of household members as much as you can, though a strict quarantine is likely not necessary. It should also be emphasized that [just] as important as household quarantine is making sure that you stay home from work or school when you are ill to prevent spread to others.”

– Dr. Stacey Rose, Assistant Professor of Medicine (Infectious Diseases) at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston

“You’ve got a lot more mucus production, coughing, et cetera. It sets you up for possibly a bacterial infection [such as bacterial pneumonia] on top of [flu symptoms].”

– Dr. Peter Shearer, Director of the Emergency Department at the Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City

“Soap and water works really well. It can dry your hands out a little bit more but when you do it, you want to do it right. That means getting your hands wet with warm water, cleaning them, getting all of the surfaces with soap for 20 seconds — that’s a full time through ‘Happy Birthday’ — and then also rinsing them off afterwards.”

– Emily Landon, Medical Director for Infection Control at the University of Chicago Medical Center

“Sanitizer might feel like a modern-day, scientific, and more clinical upgrade to soap. But I’m here to tell you that soap — all sorts of it: liquid, solid, honeysuckle-scented, the versions inexplicably only marketed to men or women — is a badass, and even more routinely effective than hand sanitizer. We should be excited to use it, as much as possible.”

– Brian Resnick, Senior Science Reporter at Vox.com

Your Home Is Both a Refuge and a Critical Line of Defense

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention explains that an epidemic occurs when a community experiences a widespread, often sudden, outbreak of disease.¹ Flu epidemics happen nearly every year in many communities. They last several weeks to several months. During these times, you’re at higher risk of getting sick with the flu. Vaccinations do reduce the danger but are not 100% effective. Plus, not everyone can get vaccinated.

The definition of a pandemic is when a disease is prevalent across an entire country or the world. COVID-19 is one such example.² However, something much smaller than an epidemic or pandemic could throw your household into chaos. For example, noroviruses spread easily through contaminated food, water and surfaces. The American Lung Association points out that even the common cold can be worrisome, especially if someone in the household has a condition such as asthma, chronic bronchitis or emphysema.³ To protect your home, follow these steps:

• Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly for at least 20 seconds.
  Experts across the board agree that handwashing is the best way to stay safe. Use paper towels or your elbow to turn the tap off after handwashing.
• Stockpile two weeks to a month’s worth of nonperishable food, medications, soap, sanitizer, disinfectants and other supplies.
  If you end up not needing these items for an illness, you might for power outages, snowstorms or other situations.
• Cough or sneeze into tissues or the inside of your elbow. Cover both your mouth and nose.
  Virus droplets can survive in the air for a few hours. On surfaces and objects, they may remain viable for up to three days.
• Throw used tissues away in a lined, touchless can or wastebasket.
  Handwash right away for 20 seconds (yep, handwashing again!).
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces at least once a day.
  Clean first and circle around to disinfecting. Pay attention to cellphones, remote controls, light switches, doorknobs, countertops, desks, keyboards, toilets, toilet handles, sinks and taps, among other things.
• Wear disposable gloves to clean and disinfect.
  When taking the gloves off, peel them away from your body. Wash your hands after disposing of the gloves (yep, that again!).
• Wash your hands when you get home.
  Also, take your shoes off before entering the house. Carry non-fabric (vinyl or plastic) purses and backpacks. Disinfect them after arriving home.
• Ask guests to wash their hands or use sanitizer.
  Hang paper towels in bathrooms instead of cloth hand towels. Keep visits to one room, if possible. Don’t put out communal bowls of food.
• Find another place to stay if your apartment building is poorly ventilated or uses recycled air.
  Bad ventilation can spread viruses and germs, causing many residents in a building to get sick.
• Separate healthy people from sick people.
  Sick people in the home should have their own towels, bedding, utensils, e-reader, cellphone and the like. If logistics allow, they should use separate bedrooms and bathrooms.
• Perform a deep clean after a sick person recovers.
  Among other things, wash bedding, pajamas, clothes and stuffed animals that the formerly sick person used.

Please click link for extended tips and tricks for disinfection.

▼

Death Certificates

Show All Answers

1. Where do I go to pick up a death certificate?

This depends on the city of death. You would seek the local health department in the city/state in which that person passed away in.

East Chicago

If the person passed in East Chicago you would contact the East Chicago Health Department at  219-391-8413

The East Chicago Health Department located at:
100 W Chicago Avenue
Suite 100 A
East Chicago, IN 46312

You can obtain the certificate with 3 methods; office visit, mail, or online. Refer to how you can obtain the certificate.

City of Gary

If the person passed away in Gary you would contact the Gary Health Department at 219-882-5565. The Gary Health Department is located at:
1145 W 5th Avenue
Gary, IN 46402

Other Cities Besides East Chicago or Gary

If the person passed away in Lake County elsewhere than East Chicago or Gary, you must contact the Lake County Health Department at 219-755-3655. The Lake County Health Department is located at:
2900 W 93rd Avenue
Crown Point, IN 46307

2. What documents will I need to pick up a death certificate?

This depends on relation. 

State law dictates No aunt, uncle, cousin, niece, nephew, ex-spouse, step parent (not listed on certificate), or non-relative may pick up a certificate without power of attorney or direct interest documentation.

• Child of deceased - If you are a child of the deceased you will need your birth certificate and a valid driver’s license or valid state ID.
• Grandchildren of deceased- Will need their own birth certificate, the certificate of their parent that lists the deceased within, and a valid ID.
• Ex-wife/Ex-husband, Other Non-Relation - These relations must show a direct interest for the certificate by bringing a legal letter from an agency that lists your name as the estate beneficiary, inheritor, life insurance beneficiary, bank account closer, or other agency that requests the deceased death certificate.
• Informant - If you are listed as the informant on the death certificate you will need a valid driver’s license or valid state ID.
• Lawyer - We advise you to call ahead to review your clients case with the Vital Records representative. The agency or representative is still responsible for sending a formal request on a client’s behalf through office visit, mail, or online order. All methods will require the advocate’s work ID, office letterhead, and payment. The agency or representative will have to provide a direct interest on behalf of the client which includes a legal letter from an agency that lists your client’s name as the estate beneficiary, inheritor, life insurance beneficiary, bank account closer, or other agency that requests the deceased death certificate.
• Parent of the Deceased - If you are listed as the parent on the death certificate you will need a valid driver’s license or valid state ID.
• Wife/Husband - You will need the marriage license and your valid driver’s license or valid state ID.

You will need appropriate documentation in order to receive someone’s death certificate. You will also need to know the exact date or a specific range of dates of the death. All death records are stored by date, not name of the deceased. If you are not sure of the date, you may contact the cemetery for the burial date. The Health Department does not provide vouchers for certificates.

Who Cannot Obtain Death Certificates

No aunts, uncles, cousins, niece, nephew, ex-spouse, or non-relations may obtain a death certificate unless you have a legal letter from an agency that lists both your name and the deceased such as:

• Joint bank account
• Car title
• Estate beneficiary
• Inheritor
• Life insurance beneficiary
• Other agency that requests the deceased death certificate

3. When will the death certificate be ready?

Two to four weeks or depending on the circumstances of the passing the hospital, attending physicians, or coroners will generate the certificate when the mode of death or investigation has concluded. The funeral home is the responsible party for all details on the certificate, the health department is only responsible for printing the certificate.  Call our office at 219-391-8413 to verify if the certificate has been generated.

4. The information on the death certificate is incorrect. What can I do?

Call the attending funeral home. The East Chicago Health Department is not responsible for generating any details on the certificate. Details are generated by those directly involved in the procedures. Contact the attending funeral home if any detail is incorrect.

If you are unsure of who to contact call the East Chicago Health Department at 219-391-8413 for direction.

5. How can I get a death certificate through the Health Department office?

You can only come into the office if the deceased passed away in the city of East Chicago. Depending on your relation to the person you will need different documents. Refer to who can obtain a death certificate and what you will need. If you do not have valid ID, please refer to which documents you will need.

6. How can I get a death certificate via the mail?

To request a death certificate via the mail, submit the following to the Health Department:

Mail ordering is still dependent upon State Laws concerning valid identification and familiar relation.

You may print the following certificate to include in your mail items: English Death Certificate       Spanish Death Certificate

1. Photocopy of valid driver’s license and documentation
2. Must provide note with:
   • Birthday of deceased
   • Deceased’ mother’s maiden name
   • Deceased’s father and mother’s names
   • Exact date of death
   • Full name of deceased
   • Place of death
   • Purpose for which this certificate will be used
   • Your relation to the person
3. Also be sure to enclose a $12 money order made to East Chicago Health Department
   • Each Certificate copy will be $12, for more copies please multiply accordingly - No personal checks or cash, it will be sent back
   • Include self-addressed, self-stamped envelope for return
4. Mail to:
   100 W. Chicago Avenue
   Suite 100 A
   Attn: Vital Records
   East Chicago, IN 46312

Depending on the location you are mailing from we advise the round trip mail to be between 10 and 16 business days.

7. How can I get a death certificate online?

There will be a difference in price for online ordering versus mail or office visit, and it will require a fax. Online ordering is faster than mail ordering but will come at slight fee increase. There is regular mail shipping or UPS overnight shipping available.

Online ordering is still dependent upon State Laws concerning valid identification and familiar relation.

1. Access the VitalChek website (This is a verified website also used by State.) 
2.  Select order death certificate
3. Select state of Indiana
4. Select city of East Chicago
5. Health Department will be – East Chicago Indiana State Department of Health (Do not select Indiana State)

Shipping

• There are two shipping methods available 1 regular mail (no cost) 2 UPS Air ($17.50) shipping will automatically select UPS, unselect if not wanted.
• Each certificate is $12, website charges $8.50
• In total Regular mail order for 1 certificate is $20.50, UPS for 1 certificate is $38. If you are in need of multiple certificates the shipping fee and service charge does not increase.

To Complete Your Order

• After you put in debit/credit information and purchase you must download and print this page. That will be your authorization form which must be faxed to the East Chicago Health Department to complete your order. Fax number will be on the authorization form. 
• You will also fax a photocopy of your valid license or state ID with the confirmation page. If you do not have a valid drivers or ID please refer to acceptable documents.
• For your convenience you can access fax services from public libraries, UPS stores, FedEx stores, and currency exchanges.
• Faxed orders will be processed before 12 pm Central time.
• This authorization form and photocopy of license/ID, or alternative documents, and proof of relation documents are required to complete your order. Without the fax the Health Department will not know the order exists and the company will take your payment regardless if the Department sends the certificate.

You may call the East Chicago Health Department at  219-391-8413 to verify we have received your fax.

8. What is considered genealogy?

Genealogy certificates are records that are 75 years or older.

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East Chicago Drinking Water

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1. How does lead enter the drinking water?

The most common way that lead enters drinking water is through the corrosion of lead or galvanized iron plumbing. Across the country, lead and galvanized iron was a common material used for plumbing in many older homes. In a large percentage of these older homes, lead plumbing can be found in the service line, either in the utility portion of the service line from the main to the curb-stop or in the customer portion of the service line from the curb stop to the interior piping. However, lead can also be found beyond the service line in the interior house piping, lead solder, and brass or chrome-plated brass faucets. Though galvanized steel and copper became more popular as plumbing pipe materials in the 1960s, lead piping and solder was not federally banned until 1986 and faucets could contain up to 8% lead until 1996.

2. Why did Environmental protection Agency sample drinking water in some homes in East Chicago?

The Environmental Protection Agency did these tests on a pilot basis for the first 43 homes that were excavated in zones 2 and 3. Street or construction work can sometimes disturb the “service lines” that carry water from the mains in the street through the yard into the home. When lead (or galvanized iron) service lines are disturbed, there is a chance that small particles of lead can break off and get into drinking water.

Like many older cities across the nation, East Chicago has a large percentage of service lines made of lead. It is likely that many homes in East Chicago have service lines that are made of - or contain – lead. In addition, lead plumbing components in some homes could also cause increased lead levels.

3. Who owns the service lines that carry drinking water from the water main to my home?

The water utility owns the service lines from the water main to the curb stop. The homeowner owns the service lines from the curb stop to the interior plumbing.

4. What did the sampling results show?

Right now, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) doesn’t have enough information to determine whether excavation is impacting lead levels in zones 2 and 3. However, EPA’s preliminary data shows that, before excavation, 18 homes had lead levels in tap water that exceeded the action level of 15 parts per billion. There is no safe level of lead exposure.

EPA has notified the Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) and the City of East Chicago of these results. IDEM has been actively working with the City to optimize the dosage of the current corrosion control treatment. The treatment reduces lead leaching by forming a protective coating on the interior of the pipes, with the ultimate goal of reducing lead levels in your home.

5. How long should zone 2 and 3 residents who participated in the pilot use the water filter provided by Environmental Protection Agency?

As part of the pilot, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) installed filters on kitchen taps of participants. EPA recommends that participants continue to use the filter for drinking, cooking, and brushing your teeth until further notice.

Aerators should be cleaned on weekly basis. Filter cartridges should be replaced regularly. Unfiltered tap water can be used to wash dishes, clothes, and clean homes. It can also be used for showers and children’s baths.

6. I live in East Chicago but wasn’t part of the pilot study. I’m concerned about lead in my drinking water - what should I do?

According to the Environmental Protection Agency and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, you can reduce or eliminate your exposure to lead in drinking water by using a water filter certified to remove lead for cooking, drinking, and baby formula or by running the kitchen tap on cold for at least 5 minutes before using any tap water for drinking or cooking. Children and pregnant women are especially vulnerable to the effects of lead.

Hot water can contain higher levels of lead, so use only cold water for eating, drinking, and brushing your teeth. Boiling water will not remove lead.

More information can be found at Environmental Protection Agency’s website.

7. Is the City of East Chicago in compliance with applicable drinking water standards for lead?

Yes. The City of East Chicago has been in full compliance with the Environmental Protection Agency's “Lead and Copper Rule” since 1993. The City meets all applicable federal and state rules concerning lead and copper in drinking water. 

Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) has been working with the City to ensure that the corrosion control treatment is being introduced into the water at a high enough level to increase the coating of the lines to reduce lead leaching from the pipes, therefore reducing lead levels in your home. The City of East Chicago routinely tests for lead in drinking water and you can view the lead testing results on your Consumer Confidence Report (CCR).

8. Why are there high lead levels if the City of East Chicago is in compliance with the Lead and Copper Rule?

The required compliance testing done the by City is different from Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) sampling for the pilot project in zones 2 and 3. Compliance testing measures lead levels throughout the City’s entire drinking water distribution system. The sequential sampling for the pilot project measures lead levels throughout an individual’s homes piping system from the water main to the street to the tap which is more rigorous series of tests.

On a national level, EPA is actively considering potential revisions to the Lead and Copper Rule. The primary goal is to improve the effectiveness of the rule in reducing exposure to lead and copper from drinking water. EPA anticipates proposed rule changes soon.

9. Did the Environmental Protection Agency test for other metals?

The Environmental Protection Agency performed sequential sampling for many different chemical contaminants and is also conducting other water quality testing to comprehensively evaluate the effects of excavation at the superfund site. All of the final results will be shared with participants, the City, and the state.

10. Can water contaminated with lead hurt me or my children?

Lead exposure can affect nearly every system in the body. It may not have obvious symptoms, so people might not realize they have too much lead in their bodies. For young children, exposure to lead can cause behavior problems and learning disabilities. The only way to know if you have lead in your body is to get tested. The Environmental Protection Agency and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention agree that there is no known safe blood lead level in children.

Residents interested in getting their children’s blood lead level tested can contact the East Chicago Health Department at 219-391-8467.

11. Is it safe for adults to shower or bathe with the water? Can babies be bathed in tap water?

Yes. Your skin does not absorb lead in water. Bathing and showering in unfiltered water is still safe for children and adults. It is safe even if the skin has minor cuts or scrapes. However, never drink bathwater, and do not allow babies and children to drink bathwater.

12. Is it safe to wash dishes and do laundry with unfiltered water?

Yes, but dry items after. Wash dishes, bottles, and toys with unfiltered soapy water. Dry before use.

Lead in water will not be absorbed by porcelain, metal, or glass. Clothes washed in plain tap water will not contain enough lead to cause harm.

13. The Environmental Protection Agency provided a filter after excavation, but how do I know the filter is working?

The Environmental Protection Agency tested the use of filters and confirmed they are effective in removing lead from drinking water, even at high levels. Please note that filters are effective when used properly - only cold water should be filtered. Cartridges must be replaced on a regular basis per manufacturer’s instructions.

14. Will whole house filters or reverse-osmosis filters work better?

A whole-home filter may not be effective because it does not treat water that flows through interior pipes, brass, and leaded-solder, which can contaminate the water with lead even after it has passed through a whole-home filter. Any water treatment filter used should be National Sanitation Foundation Standard 53 (NSF-53) certified to remove lead and should be located at the end of the plumbing right before the tap, so that all water that flows through home plumbing is treated. The certification label is typically displayed on the package and the filter.

15. How can I get my home’s drinking water tested for lead?

You can have your home’s water tested for lead on your own by contacting a laboratory certified by the Indiana State Department of Health for analysis of lead in drinking water.

A list of those laboratories can be found on Indiana Department of Environmental Management’s Drinking Water at Lead webpage.

16. How can I check my home’s water pipes for lead?

If the plumbing in your home is accessible, you may be able to inspect your own plumbing. Otherwise, call your water provider or hire a plumber.

More information can be found on the Environmental Protection Agency’s website.

17. Is this related to the USS Lead Superfund Site near my home?

No. It is not possible for lead from contaminated soil to get into your tap water. If there is elevated lead in your tap water, it is most likely due to the presence of lead in your service lines and/or the plumbing in your home.

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ECPD FAQ's

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1. My car was towed

What do I need to get a release and how much is it?

Vehicles are released to the register owner ONLY. You must provide a current state ID/DL. A tow release is $20 fee if you reside in the city of EC, if you reside out of the city then it's a $30 fee. (Money Order, Debit/Credit Card, NO CASH)

2. I need a copy of a report

The City of East Chicago charges a fee for each report. We accept Money Orders, Company Checks, Credit or Debit Card. We do not accept cash.

INCIDENT REPORTS (EC resident-$10 fee/ Non-resident-$15)

ACCIDENT REPORTS (EC resident-$15 fee/ Non-resident-$25)

ARREST REPORTS (EC resident-$10 fee/ Non-resident-$15)

TOW RELEASE (EC resident-$20 fee/ Non-resident-$30)

We go by the address on your ID (NO EXCEPTIONS)

3. I need a background check for employment, immigration or Foster Care (DCFS) and how much is it?

Background Checks are only local record checks (which means we only check for a record in the city of East Chicago, IN).

Background Checks are $25 fee if you reside in the city and $35 fee if you reside out of the city.

4. How much is an accident report?

Accident reports take 5-7 business days to clear with the state and will be available for the public. You will need the case number or drivers information to retrieve a copy. A copy of the report is $15 for EC residents/$25 for non-resident. You can also go online to obtain a copy of the report www.buycrash.com

5. I need a VIN Check

Vin checks are done on Tuesday's only 9am-3pm

The fee is (EC resident-$10 fee/ Non-resident-$20)

For Company trucks/trailers/semi's you gave to contact Traffic Sgt. Parks 219-391-8436 and make an appointment.

We do not check salvage title vehicles.

6. I need a background check for my gun permit?

Contact our Gun Permit line 219-516-2200 and leave the necessary information its requesting. If you fail to leave the correct information you will not get a call back for an appointment.

7. I was arrested and I didn't get all property back when I was released. How do I get my property?

Contact Service Division Lt. Alamo 219-516-2244

8. How do I get a gun permit?

Call 219-516-2200

The phone call will go straight to a voice mail.

Please have the following information ready to leave on the voice mail & speak clearly:

• Your applications number (it should start with a 176 or 177 or 178)
• Your first & last name.
• A working phone number to reach you.

Once we receive your information you will be put on our gun permit list.

We will then contact you to arrange a date to pay your local fees.

Please note to the high demand for gun permits it may take a few weeks before we can contact you.

It is very important that you leave your application number so we can pull and check the status to get the expiring applications in ASAP.

If your application does expire, we will contact you and inform you how to update your application.

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Paternity Affidavits

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1. How do I add a father to my child’s birth certificate?

If the child was born at St. Catherine’s in East Chicago you will need to set an appointment with the health department to establish paternity. This affidavit is a legally binding document meaning you need to read and verify each section of information. Once you have signed and should the information be correct, the state will consider this a legally binding document and will not be rectified at the local level therefore after. If a change is desired for the certificate after the state certification verification it will have to be changed through the courts. 

You may contact the Vital Records division at (219) 391-8413 to make an appointment.

Appointment Availability

Appointments are only available on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays for 9 or 10 a.m, except days that fall on the first or the last of the month.

What to Bring

Both parents need to come on the day of their appointment with their valid driver’s license or state ID, and social security cards. 

The fee for an Affidavit is $50. The fee for new birth certificates is $12. Please refer to acceptable payment options.

2. Does the affidavit include a DNA test?

No. This affidavit does not include a DNA test. This division does not receive DNA establishing papers from any agency, nor does this facility administer DNA testing. The affidavit is legally binding regardless of test findings.

3. How do I obtain a copy of my child’s affidavit?

If the paternity was completed with the East Chicago Health Department you may obtain a copy in office or through mail for $2 per copy. Please view acceptable forms of payment.

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Residential Repair Program

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1. Can I rehabilitate a property owned by my parents?

No. the Program is limited to an owner-occupied residence. The occupant must have fee simple title to the property being proposed for rehabilitation. Your parents could make application to participate in the Residential Repair Program at their primary residence within the City of East Chicago, Indiana.

2. If I submit an application today, how soon can the Rehab Program fix my house?

Due to the large interest in the Residential Repair Program, a first-come first-served waiting list is utilized. There is an approximate one-to-two year cavity between the time an application is currently received and thereby pulled for processing. In special situations where safety of property or persons is confirmed, priority may be authorized to serve that particular need of an eligible homeowner in the Emergency Repair Program, for which the homeowner would incur a 100% loan for the cost of the repair.

3. Can I do any of the work myself?

No. The homeowners are not allowed to personally perform any non-emergency home repairs during the Residential Repair Program construction period. Homeowner repair projects that begin before the start of the Residential Repair Program construction period are required to be complete, including, if applicable, city inspection reports indicating proof that homeowner’s previous project is code compliant.

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Soil Contamination in East Chicago

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1. Where did the lead and arsenic come from?

The elevated levels of lead and arsenic in the soil are left over from contamination that occurred years ago by the operations of several lead smelting facilities that were located in this area until the 1960s.

2. How does the lead and arsenic in soil get into our bodies?

Contaminated soil can enter the body if it is swallowed or breathed in. Soil generates small dust particles that can settle on clothing, on toys, and in the home. It can enter the home on the soles of shoes and other items such as bike tires.

Children may swallow the dust when they put their hands and toys in their mouths. Young children (under the age of 6) are at the greatest risk of exposure to the lead and arsenic dust because they play in soil and put soil-covered toys and hands in their mouths. In fact, children get about twice as much soil in their bodies from their activities as do adults.

3. Has the lead and arsenic in the soil from the East Chicago site gotten into our bodies?

Most of us have some lead and arsenic in our bodies from exposures in everyday life. It is not possible to determine whether the lead and arsenic in your body is from your exposure to the contaminated soil or another source. The East Chicago Health Department and others have been conducting blood testing for lead and have found that more children have elevated blood lead levels than would normally be expected. This may be from the soil.

Testing for arsenic in the body is not reliable and is reserved for cases of high-dose poisoning rather than exposure from the environment. It is usually conducted by poison specialists.

4. How can the lead and arsenic from the soil affect our health?

Over time, lead can damage children’s nervous systems which may result in small changes to IQ and behavior. Since the brain develops before birth but continues for the first several years of life, pregnant women and children six years of age and under are at higher risk than older children and adults.

Children and adults exposed to high levels of arsenic may have irritation of the stomach and intestines, blood vessel damage, skin changes, and reduced nerve function. Long-term exposure in children may lead to learning disabilities and other neurological effects. High levels of arsenic can also increase the risk of developing cancer.

5. Should my child get a blood lead test?

Children and pregnant women who live in West Calumet Housing Complex should have their blood tested for lead. You or your child’s health care provider or the East Chicago Health Department (ECHD) can perform the test. ECHD is located at:
100 W Chicago Avenue
East Chicago, IN 46312

For more information, contact ECHD at 219-391-8467.

All children less than 6 years old who receive Medicaid are required to be tested for lead yearly.

6. Should I be worried if my child’s lead level is elevated?

This is a difficult question to answer. We know that even low levels of lead can cause small changes in a child’s growing brain. However, we are unable to predict which children will have problems in the future due to their lead exposure. Some lead exposed children seem to do fine.

About 2.5% of children in the United States have a blood lead level equal to or above 5 micrograms per deciliter, which is considered elevated. Most children test lower than 5 micrograms per deciliter, however very few are close to zero. Elevated blood lead is most typically the result of contact with lead-based paint in the home.

Points of Reference

Here are some comparison levels to help you understand you or your child’s blood lead results:

• The average lead level in children in the U.S. is around 1 micrograms per deciliter.
• The average lead level of children in Lake County, Indiana is around 2 micrograms per deciliter.
• The average lead level in 1980 in the U.S. was around 15 micrograms per deciliter. Lead levels have declined significantly since then because lead was removed from gasoline and paint.

7. What can I do if my child’s lead level is elevated?

Medicine to remove lead from the body has its own risks and therefore is not prescribed until blood lead levels are greater than 45 micrograms per deciliter. Low levels of lead will be removed from the body over time (through the urine and stool).

Regardless of your child’s lead level, you should speak with your child’s health care provider to have your child further evaluated if he or she does not seem to be developing normally.

Activities

There are activities you can do with your child that will stimulate his or her brain as it is developing and may counteract the possible damage caused by lead. These activities include:

• Being engaged in your child’s school activities. Discuss assignments, field trips, etc.
• Making sure your child goes to preschool.
• Reading to your child and promoting reading in your home.
• Talking with your child and asking him or her questions. Listen and respond to their answers.

8. What can I do to prevent the lead and arsenic in the soil from getting into my child’s body?

Tips for preventing lead and arsenic from entering your child include:

• Do not allow your child to play in or around the contaminated soil.
• Eating foods with a lot of calcium, iron and vitamin C will help keep lead from being stored in your child’s body. These foods include dairy products, beans and meats, and orange juice.
• Remove shoes upon entering your home.
• Wash your child’s hands and feet with soap and water after they have been playing outside.
• Wash your child’s toys regularly with soap and water.

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Stop Sewer Backups

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1. What are connected downspouts and sump pumps?

Many older homes have gutters and sump pumps connected directly to the sanitary sewer. This means that rain from the roof and ground water from the pumps runs directly into the sewer. Not all downspouts are connected to the sanitary sewer, some may discharge into a storm drain. Contact Stormwater Management at (219) 391-8466 to find out if your connected downspout and sump pumps discharges into the sanitary sewer.

2. Why are backups a problem?

The problem is too much water. Sanitary sewer systems can only handle a certain amount of water. During a rainstorm, water gets into the sewer from connected downspouts and sump pumps. In a neighborhood of 200 homes it only takes six to eight sump pumps working full time in wet weather to cause sewer backups. When there is too much water for the system, the excess has to go somewhere, and that somewhere is often somebody's basement, a manhole, or the Grand Calumet River.

The City of East Chicago has a legal requirement, (Ordinance Number 2835) which was passed on May of 1964 to stop rain water from flowing to our sanitary sewers. With an increase in water flow, this becomes a problem, because the wastewater treatment plant has to treat the extra water.

3. Why should I care about backups?

Sewage overflows are messy, costly, and a threat to health and the environment.

Cost Factor

The Sanitary District ends up treating the extra water. The utility may also have to pay fines when raw sewage is released to the environment.

4. What can I do to prevent backups?

Disconnection is usually a simple, relatively inexpensive process. Stormwater Management will be able to tell whether your downspouts and sump pumps are connected to the sanitary sewer.

If you are not familiar with plumbing work, please contact a licensed and bonded plumber or Stormwater Management for assistance at (219) 391-8466.

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Stormwater Management

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1. Why is stormwater management important to our community?

Stormwater management is directly related to our water quality, and water quality affects us all.  Managing stormwater properly protects wildlife, maintains a healthy environment around us, and ensures quality drinking water.

2. What can you do to help prevent stormwater runoff pollution?

• Check your car for leaks and recycle your motor oil
• Compost your yard waste
• Direct downspouts away from paved surfaces; consider a rain garden to capture rainwater
• Have your septic tank pumped and inspected regularly
• Keep all litter off the street and place it in receptacles so that it does not get washed or blown down storm drains
• Never dump anything down storm drains or in streams
• Pick up after your pet
  • Untreated pet waste can cause significant water pollution
  • When it rains, pet waste left on lawns can be washed into storm drains that lead to nearby lakes and streams
• Recycle product containers made of glass, plastic and aluminum
• Service your car regularly to prevent gasoline, oil, brake and transmission fluids, and anti-freeze from leaking onto the pavement and washing into our streams
• Take your car to the car wash instead of washing it in the street or driveway street or driveway
• Use absorbent materials like kitty litter or toweling to soak up any spills, then sweep up and dispose of these items properly -  never dilute spills with water
• Use fertilizers sparingly and  sweep up driveways, sidewalks, and gutters
• Use least toxic pesticides, follow labels, and learn how to prevent pest problems
• Vegetate bare spots in your yard