3 Fire Department Paramedics Quarantined Over Coronavirus Concern

HIGHLAND PARK, IL — Three members of the Highland Park Fire Department were quarantined Monday after they may have been exposed to the new coronavirus during an emergency call, city staff announced.

The patient they treated has not yet tested positive for COVID-19 but recently traveled internationally and could have contracted the virus, according to a release from the city.

After returning to the fire station, the trio of paramedics immediately quarantined themselves on the advice of staff at Highland Park Hospital, according to the release. They did not respond to any further calls or interact with any other city personnel after returning from the call.

"The Fire Department has a staffing plan in place to ensure continuity of service delivery in the event that personnel are exposed to any symptomatic case of COVID-19 or otherwise require quarantine," City Manager Ghida Neukirch said.

Residents can help emergency personnel by informing dispatchers of any symptoms they or anyone else on site is experiencing, any travel history or any contact with someone who has tested positive for the novel coronavirus.

The ambulance the three quarantined firefighters were using was been disinfected and undergone a deep anti-viral cleaning, according to the release. It said medical professionals advised city staff the fire department personnel were at a very low risk of contracting the virus, even if their patient did test positive.

The trio is expected to remain quarantined pending the results of the patient's coronavirus test, which is expected Tuesday evening.

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The Lake County Department of Public Health, Illinois Department of Public Health and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also offer information about the virus and how to prevent its spread and reduce its strain on the health care system.

Highland Park Mayor Nancy Rotering Saturday declared a state of civil emergency, following similar declarations by the state and federal government. The initial orders allowed for emergency staffing measures in the city's police, fire and public works departments.

On Monday night, Rotering issued supplemental orders mandating the closure of all health clubs and theaters as of the close of business Tuesday. More information about the city's reaction to COVID-19 is available on its website.

City staff are participating in a weekly conference call and daily contact with members of an informal working group consisting of representatives of local public bodies, including Highwood, Deerfield, Moraine Township, Lake County and school districts 109, 112 and 113 to coordinate responses.

City Manager Ghida Neukirch said the city plans to have all non-essential city employees begin working two days a week on staggered shifts. The police department has adjusted its staffing schedule to limit close contact between officers to reduce the risk of potential transmission.

Highland Park police are continuing to respond to all high-priority calls, but in cases of minor traffic crashes without injuries, Neukirch suggested residents contact the department to complete a report without requiring an officer to show up.

Anyone who suspects they may have been exposed to COVID-19, or those who are experiencing symptoms of fever, coughing and shortness of breath, should contact their medical provider. Questions can be directed to the state's novel coronavirus hotline at 800-889-3931 or by emailing dph.sick@illinois.gov.