The Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service is issuing new protocols to help protect those on the front lines from the spread of COVID-19 in the province.
An internal memo obtained by Global News states that dispatchers will now be advising firefighters and paramedics to don extra droplet and contact protection gear when responding to calls with general sickness, headaches or trouble breathing.
However, dispatchers will no longer be asking callers about recent travel history — that will be left up to those attending the scene.
Firefighters will no longer be responding to calls with reports of general sickness and headache, in an effort to reduce potential exposure to the virus.
Both paramedics and firefighters will continue to respond to calls with reports of difficulty breathing.
The increased measures come just days after Fire Hall 21 in Transcona was quarantined for several hours following first responders attending a call where someone was suffering from flu-like symptoms, which wasn’t described in the 911 call.
Concerned about COVID-19? Here are some things you need to know:
Health officials say the risk is very low for Canadians.
Symptoms can include fever, cough and difficulty breathing – very similar to a cold or flu. Some people can develop a more severe illness. People most at risk of this include older adults and people with severe chronic medical conditions like heart, lung or kidney disease.
To prevent the virus from spreading, experts recommend frequent handwashing and coughing into your sleeve. And if you get sick, stay at home.
For full COVID-19 coverage from Global News, click here.
Comments