Employee tests positive for COVID-19 at Westmoreland Co. courthouse

On July 5, 2020, Westmoreland County was notified that an employee tested positive for the COVID-19 virus. We immediately implemented steps in our emergency response plan to minimize the impact in our workplace and to keep all employees healthy and safe. We want you to be aware of the following actions:

· The employee directly impacted has been requested to comply with quarantine recommendations in place by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and is on an approved leave of absence.

· We have communicated directly with any specific employees and business contacts who are believed to have come in direct contact with the employee in the preceding weeks, and have asked these employees to work remote or stay home for a two-week quarantine period as advised by the CDC.

· We have followed the latest CDC recommendations for cleaning and disinfecting facilities, including the use of ventilating fans and open doors/windows to increase air circulation in the work area and extensive disinfection of the surfaces and workspace where the employee worked.

Have questions about the spread of the coronavirus? We have an entire section dedicated to coverage of the outbreak. CLICK HERE for more.

We continue to encourage all employees to proceed with incorporating good hygiene and social distancing practices in the workplace to minimize the risk of infection:

· Avoid gathering in areas of socialization, such as pantries/kitchen, copier rooms, etc.

· Eat at your desk or other area in the workplace away from larger crowds.

· Avoid face-to-face meetings even when working within the same premises.

· Choose alternative forms of communication such as phone, video conference, chat, instant messaging, etc.

· Avoid close contact with anyone who is sick and stay home if you are sick.

· Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.

· Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.

· Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.

· Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.