A triage tent erected Sunday outside Sentara Albemarle Medical Center in Elizabeth City is part of preparation plans, and not out of any immediate concerns over the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic.
Pasquotank/Camden/Elizabeth City Emergency Management director Christy Saunders issued a memo Sunday afternoon in an effort to dispel any rumors regarding the activities taking place outside the hospital.
Full statement:
Preparedness and proactive measures are being taken at multiple agencies within Pasquotank and Camden Counties and the City of Elizabeth City in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Coordination with Local, State and Federal partners is an ongoing process; especially with our Public Health, Sentara Albemarle Medical Center and Emergency Services partners.
In an effort to be proactive we have worked with Sentara Albemarle Medical Center to position a Triage Tent at their facility.
This is a collaborative effort of forward preparedness – at this time we have no cases of COVID-19 in Pasquotank or Camden Counties.
We are sharing this information in an effort to dispel any rumors that may arise should the public observe the tent established at SAMC and assume and “share” false information and incite panic.
We are aware these are fearful times for many of our citizens. We want to assure you that while we may not be able to constantly update you on local actions it is because we are extremely busy meeting with our partners and coordinating our efforts.
We cannot reiterate enough the importance of getting your information from creditable sources which include CDC and NCDHHS.
Remember, cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, wash your hands often, and as much as possible, practice social distancing. If you have a fever or cough and require medical care, call ahead to the doctor’s office, urgent care or emergency room and tell them about your symptoms.
For up-to-date case count information in North Carolina go to https://www.ncdhhs.gov/covid-19-case-count-nc.
