3 First Responders Test Positive For Coronavirus: Mayor

BALTIMORE, MD — Three first responders have in Baltimore have tested positive for the new coronavirus, according to Mayor Bernard C. "Jack" Young.

"The city has prepared for the possibility of positive tests of our first responders and will take all necessary precaution to limit contacts," Young said. "The health and safety of our first responders is paramount."

Baltimore Fire Chief Niles Ford said the fire department and health department were working together to trace where its two members were and who they had contact with since they were exposed to the virus. The two who tested positive were EMS providers, officials said. Members of the Baltimore Fire Department have been wearing goggles, masks, gowns and gloves, Ford said.

A Baltimore police officer who tested positive for the new coronavirus is in good spirits and has been in quarantine for a week, Police Commissioner Michael Harrison said. An investigation is underway into who may have come into contact with the officer.

Baltimore Health Commissioner Letitia Dzirasa, M.D., said the city's health department was just informed Thursday of the three positive test results and were working to trace their contacts.

"On behalf of the people of Baltimore, we are all extremely grateful for our first responders. They have a very difficult job that requires them to place their lives on the line in order to protect the public's health," Young said. "We all owe them a debt of gratitude."

Watch the news conference about the first responders testing positive for the virus.

This is breaking news and will be updated.