Pittsburgh Preparing For Potential Coronavirus Outbreak

PITTSBURGH, PA - Although no cases have been reported in southwestern Pennsylvania yet, city safety officials are preparing for a possible outbreak of COVID-19, the new coronavirus.

“This is about being prepared,” Public Safety Director Wendell Hissrich said. “While we are pleased that no cases have appeared in this area yet, we will be ready if any cases do appear here."

City officials have reached out to local hospitals and Allegheny County and suburban public safety officials to coordinate preparedness and response plans. The city's 2014 pandemic operational plan has been updated and all EMS vehicles are being examined to ensure they are working properly.

Additionally, first responders have been trained to identify possible cases of the virus and when to provide medical care or isolate patients if necessary. They have been provided with enhanced personal protection kits containing face masks, gloves, hand sanitizers and protective eyewear to be worn if they encounter someone with the virus.