Delaware County has organized local government agencies and resources to prevent the spread of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) and plan for a local outbreak, should one occur.

County Council, the Department of Intercommunity Health and the Department of Emergency Services have stayed in daily communication with the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the Centers for Disease Control.

To date, there have been no confirmed cases in Pennsylvania.

County officials  met with police, fire and the EMS community March 2 to discuss ways to prevent the spread of the virus.

First responders have face masks, gloves and hand sanitizer to protect themselves during emergency calls that may involve residents who have Coronavirus. EMS vehicles have additional safety equipment, including protective eyewear.

The County has plans in place for a possible outbreak and will continue meeting to update best practices.

The best way to protect yourself is to take the same precautions you would to prevent the flu or common cold:

• Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze with your elbow to avoid touching your face;
• Wash your hands often with soap and warm/hot water for at least 20 seconds;
• Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available;
• Clean surfaces frequently, including countertops, light switches, cell phones, remotes, and other frequently touched items;
• If you are feeling sick, stay home. Rest, take care of yourself and don’t spread the germs.

The County’s facilities department is upgrading sanitation in all County buildings and taking extra precautions to ensure County buildings are as germ free as possible.

 Call your healthcare professional if you develop symptoms, have been in close contact with a person known to have COVID-19 or if you have recently traveled from an area with widespread or ongoing community spread of COVID-19.

Call 911 if you or the patient is in distress and it is an emergency.

The County does not perform  testing for 2019 Novel Coronavirus. National and academic labs are ramping up for testing.

If a resident tests positive for COVID-19, the County will follow the CDC and the Pennsylvania Department of Health’s recommendations. Updates and resources from the CDC and Pennsylvania Department of Health can be found here: www.health.pa.gov, www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html

A county website dedicated to providing information on the Coronavirus, including prevention, resources and a FAQ section can be found here.

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