Austin EMS Paramedic Tests Positive For Coronavirus

AUSTIN, TX — An Austin-Travis County EMS paramedic tested positive for the new coronavirus, according to city officials.

The agency provided housing for the paramedic, food, medical and mental health services after learning that the paramedic has COVID-19. Officials said the medic has mild illness.

Austin Public Health is now tracing anyone who had close personal contact with the paramedic.

On March 12, Austin EMS officials were advised to take their temperatures every 12 hours.

"The health and safety of our first responders is our highest priority," Dr. Jason Pickett, Austin Alternate Health Authority, said in a statement. "The exposure of the ATCEMS medic was not the result of a breach of protocol.

"We have measures in place to ensure they are properly protected and equipped when they respond to calls of flu-like symptoms. We will continue to reassess first responder protocols as needed during the rapidly evolving COVID-19 situation."

Austin officials said the priority for testing is first responders, health care workers and higher risk individuals who work in critical infrastructure.

City officials are giving the following advice on practicing social distancing and personal hygiene to mitigate the spread of the virus:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are unavailable, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Stay home when you are sick.
• Cough or sneeze into your elbow or use a tissue to cover it, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.