Westmoreland 911 quizzes callers about coronavirus as county prepares outbreak plan

Callers to Westmoreland County 911 are being asked if they have potentially been exposed to the coronavirus or are experiencing any symptoms of the illness.

Operators on Tuesday started questioning callers seeking assistance for breathing issues or other respiratory symptoms if they’ve been to the countries hit hardest by the coronavirus, Public Safety Director Roland Mertz said.

“After talking to our medical director, we thought it was time to do a little more screening to give more information to our first responders,” Mertz said.

Callers are being asked if they’ve been to Italy, Iran, China or South Korea in the last 14 days or been in contact with anyone who has recently visited those countries. Affirmative responses prompt followup questions by 911 operators asking callers if they have a fever that exceeds 100.4 degrees and whether they are experiencing chills, having difficulty breathing, a persistent cough or other respiratory issues.

That screening, which had been under consideration for a week, is designed to identify those who might potentially have been exposed to coronavirus, Mertz said.

“We didn’t want to start too soon to throw everybody into a panic,” Mertz said.

As of Tuesday afternoon, no confirmed coronavirus cases had been reported in Western Pennsylvania, including Westmoreland County. Mertz said he was unaware if any local residents have been tested for the virus.

Still, precautions are underway.

Commissioners on Tuesday met with department heads to review how the county is addressing ongoing coronavirus concerns. A comprehensive plan is being formulated to ensure the government remains open during an outbreak.

A special committee is drafting a coronavirus response plan that is expected to be completed by next week, Commissioners’ Chairman Sean Kertes said.

“We’re trying to protect the public and our employees as much as possible,” Kertes said.

Courthouse maintenance staff will continue to clean and disinfect bathrooms, worker areas and common spaces while reminders detailing proper hygiene have been placed throughout the building. County employees receive paid time off for illnesses and should stay home if sick, Kertes said.

The county’s response plan is expected to address the continued staffing of around-the-clock operations at the jail, the county nursing home, Westmoreland Manor, and the juvenile detention center.

Commissioner Gina Cerilli said the 400-bed Manor is a major area of concern. So far, no restrictions on visitation have been instituted.

“That’s where our most vulnerable residents live,” Cerilli said.

Commissioner Doug Chew said officials will explore allowing some courthouse employees to work from home if quarantining staff is necessary.

“I do think the county is very prepared,” Chew said. “Director Mertz has been tracking the coronavirus and updating us. I am confident in his abilities to lead the county throughout any and all emergencies.”