A message about COVID-19
As the Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak develops and officials learn more about the virus, Centre LifeLink EMS is participating in daily calls and meetings internally and externally to remain informed and prepared based on the most current information and guidance provided by state and federal officials as well as the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention and the Department of Health. Our main focus is to ensure we meet our patient’s needs while doing our part to keep our employees and our communities safe.
What do to if you are sick
If you are sick with COVID-19 or think you might have it, call your doctor. If you think you have been exposed to COVID-19 and develop a fever and symptoms, call your doctor for medical advice.
If you have a medical appointment, call your doctor’s office and tell them you have or may have COVID-19. This will help the office protect themselves and other patients.
When to call 911
As always, Centre LifeLink EMS remains dedicated to being here for our community members when you experience an emergency.
If you have a medical emergency and need to call 911, notify the dispatcher that you have or think you might have COVID-19. If possible, put on a facemask before medical help arrives.
Please note that if you call 911 with possible COVID-19 symptoms (i.e. shortness of breath), they will ask you a series of questions so that our staff can take precautionary measures.
If you are transported to the hospital via one of our ambulances, please be aware that we are suspending allowing most non-patients from riding in our ambulances. Only ONE parent of a minor patient (or other legal guardian/responsible individual) will be permitted to ride with us to the hospital.
All other individuals will need to arrange their own transportation to the hospital.
Who is most at risk?
Older adults and people with chronic health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes or lung disease are at higher risk of getting very sick from COVID-19. If you are at higher risk, you should:
Keep your distance from others who are sick, limit close contact and wash your hands often
Keep two weeks’ worth of prescription and over-the-counter medicines and other medical supplies, groceries and household goods on hand
Stay at home and practice “social distancing” to reduce your risk of exposure
What you can do
Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If you do not have access to soap and water, use an alcohol-based hand rub that contains at least 60% alcohol.
Stay at least 3 feet away from individuals who are coughing and sneezing
Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue or your elbow when coughing or sneezing
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth
Disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces
Stay home, other than for medical appointments, if you are sick
Avoid close contact with people who are sick
As we continue to monitor this situation, Centre LifeLink EMS will communicate any updates in the coming weeks. If you have any questions regarding COVID-19, please visit the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s website at cdc.gov.