911 dispatchers are now asking callers about coronavirus symptoms
People calling 911 in Pierce County might face some extra questions from dispatchers about coronavirus symptoms.
Starting Thursday, Sound Sound 911 dispatchers have started asking those who call for medical aid if they’re experiencing any coughs, fevers or shortness of breath.
It’s an additional precaution to protect first responders and the people they help, said South Sound 911 spokesperson Kris McNamar.
If anyone answers yes to the potential symptoms, first responders at the Tacoma Fire Department know to respond accordingly, said spokesperson Joe Meinecke.
“We’re going to take the extra time for our personnel to put on goggles, a mask, a gown and gloves,” Meinecke said. “Normally it would just be eye protection and gloves.”
First responders started wearing additional protection as a precautionary measure this week.
It’s a similar protocol being implemented by fire departments across the region in the wake of an increasing number of coronavirus cases, Meinecke said.
Tacoma Fire is now looking for ways to start tracking how many coronavirus-related calls they respond to.
The department recommends people call their primary doctors — not 911 — if they feel they have symptoms.
According to Washington state Department of Health numbers released Thursday morning, the number of confirmed coronavirus COVID-19 cases jumped to 70 from Wednesday’s reported 39 cases.
The death toll is now at 11, with an additional death reported in King County on Thursday. There were no confirmed cases in Pierce County as of Thursday morning.
Coronavirus is spread through contact between people within six feet of each other, especially through coughing and sneezing that expels respiratory droplets that land in the mouths or noses of people nearby. The CDC says it’s possible to catch COVID-19 by touching something that has the virus on it, and then touching your own face, “but this is not thought to be the main way the virus spreads.”
Symptoms include fever, cough and shortness of breath, which may occur two days to two weeks after exposure. The disease is especially dangerous for the elderly and others with weaker immune systems.
