Reading Launches Emergency Operations Center For Coronavirus

READING, MA — The town launched a formal Emergency Operations Center this week in response to the latest coronavirus information released by the Centers for Disease Control. The center is a hub for meetings between all town, school and light departments and Austin Preparatory School, the first of which took place Monday.

Town officials also participated in a statewide call led by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health Monday.

"In addition to the information we have received and reviewed from the Centers for Disease Control, Department of Public Health, our local Public Health Department and Town Departments we are speaking with our regional partners in other communities," Fire Chief/Emergency Management Director Greg Burns said in a statement. "Through this process we will be in a stronger position to respond if a local response is needed."

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The town now has a button on the Readingma.gov homepage for coronavirus information, with direct links to the CDC COVID-19 page, the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MDPH) Coronavirus page, printable fact sheets for home and workplaces, numerous other links and documents for residents and businesses to take proactive precautions.

"We are at a low-risk situation currently but we don't know what the future holds. At this stage we suggest that all residents and businesses become familiar with the literature provided through these links, wash your hands frequently and work with your employer to be able to stay home if you are sick," Town Manager Bob LeLacheur said in a statement. "If residents don't feel well they should contact their own health care provider or medical facility. Town services are not currently impacted and we will be sure to advise the community should that situation change."

You can visit Reading's dedicated Coronavirus webpage here: https://www.readingma.gov/public-health-services/news/information-on-novel-coronavirus-outbreak.