CHOWAN Co., N.C. - A first responder in Chowan County has tested positive for the coronavirus, county officials announced Friday.
The employee last worked a full shift on March 31. The employee reported to work on April 7, and before beginning their shift, they failed the daily screening.
The employee was sent for lab testing and then sent home for self-isolation pending results. The employee remains on self-isolation.
At this time, county officials say screening for all first responders continues. This department is screened daily by the hospital and has been doing daily screenings since March 21.
Individuals who were in direct contact with the employee have been notified and continue to monitor for any symptoms.
Equipment at the station is thoroughly cleaned and disinfected after each call and also at the beginning of each shift. Employees continue to be instructed to wear the appropriate level of PPE (personal protective equipment) based on the nature of the call.
In order to protect personnel privacy, county officials will not release any specific or additional information about the employee.
