Late March 10, city officials learned that an unidentified Alameda Firefighter tested positive for COVID-19. Following the positive test, the city expects the public health officials in the county where the individual is being quarantined would follow protocol and begin a thorough investigation to identify anyone who might have been in close personal contact with the individual. The City of Alameda stated it is fully cooperating with the unidentified county's public health officials in a press release the morning of March 11.

The city stated it will be taking extra precautions to protect the health and safety of our employees and the community. The city is also increasing the frequency and level of cleaning at facilities, including at all fire stations. In addition to enhancing cleaning, many large city-sponsored events have been canceled or postponed. Staff will also deploy hand sanitizer stations at key locations across Alameda, and promoting recommended actions to slow the spread of COVID-19 to employees and residents.

"We understand this news may be alarming to our community, as well as our employees and their families," stated the city press release. "The best thing we can do to protect ourselves and our community, especially those who are more vulnerable, is follow recommended precautions." 

Health officials recommend:

•             Washing hands with soap and water frequently

•             Covering your cough or sneeze

•             Avoiding touching eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands

•             Staying away from work, school, or other people if you become sick

•             Avoiding close contact with people who are sick

•             Following guidance from public health officials

•             Calling your health care provider first before seeking medical care

“As a city, the health and welfare of our employees and community members is our top priority. We will continue to provide updates at www.alamedaca.gov/alerts as more information is available,” stated the city’s press release.

Updated:

The City and the ALameda Fire Department released a statement late Thursday, March 12. The press release read, "In preparation for COVID-19, all Alameda Fire Department (AFD) personnel received advanced training and were provided with additional levels of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), including gowns, face masks, and eye protection. 

"When you call for assistance, AFD’s emergency dispatch center began implementing a new set of questions on February 27 for patients who have flu like symptoms." 

These questions are designed to provide a higher level of safety for the public and to alert responding firefighters of potential exposures so they can wear the appropriate PPE and ensure the safety of the patient. Read more about actions the Fire Department has taken in a letter from Fire Chief edmond Rodriguez. To read the letter, visit https://www.alamedaca.gov/files/5c34f507-c84f-42b4-a192-32fcb1ceb713/AFD....

The City is posting regular updates at www.alamedaca.gov/alerts. We added a new feature that gives you the ability to subscribe to this page, so you are alerted when new information is posted.