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NEWS
McKean County officials, medical providers keeping tabs on COVID-19
By RUTH BOGDAN
McKean County government officials and medical providers are keeping a watchful eye on the spread of the virus that causes COVID-19, though the direct threat to locals is considered low at this time. On Wednesday morning, county officials took part in a conference call with Dr. Rachel Levine, secretary of the Pennsylvania Department of Health, and her staff, said McKean County Commissioner Tom Kreiner. An important fact discussed at the meeting is that there are “no confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Pennsylvania,” said Kreiner. “They feel the direct threat is low,” he said. Kreiner noted that if the threat level changes in Pennsylvania, a declaration of emergency would have to go through Gov. Tom Wolf. He noted that the Department of Health will continue to collaborate with
Photo provided Pennsylvania Secretary of Health Dr. Rachel Levine talks about COVID-19 at the Department of Health Operations Center, PEMA headquarters, Harrisburg.
counties, municipalities, school districts and others to consider any plan of action. One thing Levine discussed with them is the opening of an in-state testing site in Exton, which will potentially save time when waiting to find out if someone has COVID-19. Previously, all samples tested for the new coronavirus had to be sent out of state. Kreiner described some of the symptoms associated with coronavirus disease
2019, which include fever, cough and shortness of breath. Some of the best ways to prevent coming down with it are washing one’s hands with soap and water, using an alcohol hand gel and cleaning surfaces frequently with disinfectant wipes, he said. At the county offices, they are prepared with wipes and hand sanitizer to keep the spread of germs at a minimum. “The biggest thing is, if someone feels they are sick, we’ve asked them
not to come in,” he said. Dr. William Mills, senior vice president of quality and profession Affairs at Upper Allegheny Health System — of which BRMC is a member — said as many as 80% of COVID-19 patients will experience only mild symptoms, while others will need treatment for shortness of breath. According to Mills, treatment for COVID-19 symptoms by the hospital include fluids and Tylenol, and patients would have to be
isolated. Mills encouraged anyone with flu-like symptoms to contact their primary physician, especially if they are having trouble catching their breath. For those without a primary care physician, he asked that they call the hospital before coming to the emergency room so prior arrangements can be made. Government and health officials will continue to monitor the status of the new coronavirus in Pennsylvania.
“We’re doing our best. I know I am,” said Kreiner, noting they are in touch a couple of times a week with Bradford Regional Medical Center to get updates. According to Kreiner, Levine said that if the disease becomes more of a threat in Pennsylvania, they will roll out a comprehensive plan. Kreiner said people can find out more information and tips about the new coronavirus at www. health.pa.gov.