WCBC

March 14th, 2020 by WCBC Radio

The Cumberland Times News reports that local efforts continue to battle Covid-19. Nancy Adams, senior vice president and chief operating officer at UPMC Western Maryland, said the hospital system is developing its own test for the virus.  UPMC Western Maryland also added a triage tent in the parking lot immediately outside the emergency department to prevent potential overcrowding and address members of the public who come to the hospital believing they have Coronavirus. Adams said folks who suspect they have the virus, but are not experiencing a high fever or breathing problems, should call their primary care physician to get initial advice. Over the next 24 hours, UPMC Western Maryland will also implement a plan for staff members that are dealing with critical child care needs while schools have closed, and visitation limitations throughout the hospital based on the state requirements. While there were no confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Allegany County on Friday, Brenda Caldwell, public information coordinator for the local health department, acknowledged the issue is “continually evolving.”  The public will be notified if there is a positive case in Allegany County.