Title
Ratify execution by the Director of Health of the COVIDNet Participation agreement between the California Department of Public Health and the County of Monterey Health Department, on behalf of the Public Health Laboratory for participation in the COVID Network of California Laboratories for SARS-CoV-2 Whole Genome Sequencing for the period of one year, beginning January 27, 2021.
Report
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended that the Board of Supervisors:
Ratify execution by the Director of Health of the COVIDNet Participation agreement between the California Department of Public Health and the County of Monterey Health Department, on behalf of the Public Health Laboratory for participation in the COVID Network of California Laboratories for SARS-CoV-2 Whole Genome Sequencing for the period of one year, beginning January 27, 2021.
SUMMARY/DISCUSSION:
The California Department Public Health has partnered with the Chan-Zuckerburg Biohub to conduct and/or facilitate whole genome sequencing of COVID-19 Specimens. The purpose of this COVIDNet Participation agreement is to include all of County Public Health laboratories to better inform outbreak investigations and public health surveillance. The COVIDNet participation endeavors to bring continuity to how laboratory scientists and epidemiologists approach the detection, characterization, and investigation of SARS-CoV-2 virus transmission and containment.
The agreement allows California health jurisdictions to better trace and track outbreaks including those that would have previously gone undetected, to inform public health action pursuant to Health and Safety Code section 100325. Approval of the recommended action will allow the Health Department Public Health Laboratory to participate in the COVIDNet partnerships that will generate and maintain a timely and comprehensive evolutionary relationship of California SARS-CoV-2 viruses.
This work supports the MCHD 2018-2022 Strategic Plan Initiatives: 1. Empower the community to improve health; Goal 2. Enhance public health and safety through prevention; and Goal 3. Ensure access to culturally and linguistically appropriate, customer-friendly, quality health services.
OTHER AGENCY INVOLVEMENT:
County Counsel has reviewed as to form.
FINANCING:
There is no exchange of funds between Monterey County and California Department of Public Health for this agreement.
BOARD OF SUPERVISORS STRATEGIC INITIATIVES:
Check the related Board of Supervisors Strategic Initiatives:
☐Economic Development:
• Through collaboration, strengthen economic development to ensure a diversified and healthy economy.
☐Administration:
• Promote an organization that practices efficient and effective resource management and is recognized for responsiveness, strong customer orientation, accountability and transparency.
☒Health & Human Services:
• Improve health and quality of life through County supported policies, programs, and services; promoting access to equitable opportunities for healthy choices and healthy environments in collaboration with communities.
☐Infrastructure:
• Plan and develop a sustainable, physical infrastructure that improves the quality of life for County residents and supports economic development results.
☐Public Safety:
• Create a safe environment for people to achieve their potential, leading businesses and communities to thrive and grow by reducing violent crimes as well as crimes in general.
Prepared by: Patricia D. McFadden, Management Analyst II, 755-4726
Approved by:
__________________________Date:______________
Elsa Mendoza Jimenez, Director of Health, 755-4526
Attachment:
Agreement will be file with the Clerk of the Board