BLACKWOOD, N.J. (KYW Newsradio) — Camden County scheduled a summit for first responders to be briefed on how to handle potential novel coronavirus cases they may encounter. But plans were changed in light of the growing outbreak.
The summit went on, but attendees participated online out of an abundance of caution, according to Camden County Medical Director Dr. Rick Hong.
"We do want to make sure that while we're sharing the information we are responsible for reducing the risk of infection," Hong told KYW Newsradio. "Given the fact that we're seeing more cases in the state and in the country, we thought that we needed to take this seriously and made the decision to go virtual, because the education is the most important thing."
More than 300 professionals took part in the summit, asking questions via an online chat or e-mail. The purpose was twofold: Make sure those on the front lines know the protocols for providing services to people who may be infected with the new coronavirus. And give those first responders the tools to protect themselves from infection.
Notably, across the Delaware River on Wednesday, the Philadelphia Department of Public Health opted to host an in-person symposium, also aimed at first responders and health care providers.
In making recommendations for public gatherings, that city's health department has said "there is some personal choice involved." When deciding whether to have a public gathering, they take into account the presence of shouting, singing or cheering, which present a higher risk of transmission; alcohol, which lowers inhibitions; and seniors and travelers; as well as how far apart people will be situated.
Hong says he is sympathetic to members of the public who are worried about the spread of COVID-19, the disease caused by the new coronavirus. However, he reassures people that they're dealing with those fears as well as they can.
"I understand that they feel helpless, but they are empowered to help us to reduce the spread of the disease," Hong added. "If they follow hand hygiene, if they follow respiratory hygiene, if they stay home if they're sick — all these little things actually add up, and we can slow down the progression together."
While his office has been taking calls from concerned citizens, he reminds them of a 24-hour state hotline, 1-800-222-1222, which may answer questions just as reliably, but faster.
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