After Exposure To Coronavirus Case, Village Staffer Self-Observes

GLENCOE, IL — A village employee is under observation at home following exposure to a confirmed case of COVID-19, the disease caused by the new coronavirus. Though the Glencoe Public Works Department employee has not shown any signs of the virus, they are under voluntary quarantine at home while their condition is being monitored, according to village staff.

"We understand that this news may raise questions and concerns. It's important to emphasize that this employee is not showing symptoms and has not tested positive for COVID-19," Village Manager Phil Kiraly said in a release. "We are following guidance from our local, state and federal health officials and will continue to monitor the employee's condition at this time."

After the initial exposure about a week ago, the village employee returned to work but had "minimal contact with the general public" earlier this week, according to staff.

Village staff consulted with private physicians and county and state health officials about appropriate safety measures, which include disinfecting public spaces in village facilities and employee work areas. According to the release, no disruptions to village services were expected.

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Village staff cited U.S. Centers for Disease Control data that suggests there is a low risk to sharing the same indoor environment with a person with COVID-19. The CDC recommends people with such low-risk exposures self-observe for two weeks after their most recent potential exposure, and the public works employee is halfway through that period, according to the release.

According to Cary Lewandowski, public safety director, the employee was exposed to an infected person while travelling in Europe. Their last contact was Feb. 27. After returning home, the employee learned of the diagnosis Tuesday and notified village officials the following day.

Kiraly said village officials were "committed to being transparent with our staff and residents and arming them with knowledge to calmly take preventive action steps that can help keep them healthy. The safety of our employees and the public is our top priority."