Health care officials, lawmaker: ‘Don’t panic’
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U.S. Rep. Fred Keller, R-Kreamer and UPMC Susquehanna officials held a press conference Monday morning to assure everyone that they are staying on top of the coronavirus.
Keller said there has been good cooperation among federal and state officials as the situation evolves.
"We should not panic," he said.
He advised the public to consult Centers for Disease Control and state Department of Health guidelines for questions about COVID-19.
Dr. David Lopatofsky, chief medical officer, UPMC Susquehanna, said the health system has been preparing for the coronavirus for months.
"UPMC facilities are safe," he said.
In the meantime, visitor restrictions are in place at all UPMC hospitals.
Heather Stafford, Infectious Disease Prevention & Control, said patients will be restricted to having one visitor at a time.
The exceptions will be for visits to the UPMC Williamsport pediatrics unit and The Birthplace where two people are allowed as long as they are family members or guardians of patients.
All visitors will be screened at entrances for coronavirus symptoms.
No one under the age of 18 is allowed in hospitals for patient visits.
Actual tests for COVID-19 are not available at UPMC Susquehanna, but that doesn't preclude taking coronavirus samples from people who suspect they may be infected.
"We have the ability to collect samples and send them to the Department of Health, UPMC Pittsburgh or a private lab," Dr. Rutul Dalal, medical director for Infectious Disease, said.
James Slotterback, manager, Emergency Preparedness, UPMC Susquehanna, noted that health care facilities are prepared.
Meanwhile, officials have updated all plans with local police and emergency officials.
Susan Duchman, chief nursing officer, noted that the elderly population is the most vulnerable for contracting the coronavirus.
However, children while least vulnerable to COVID-19, can contract coronavirus and spread it to other people.
Dalal said the coronavirus is contracted by people much like the common cold or flu.
"There is not yet a vaccine or medication for it," he said.