Mental health services are available
County Executive Kathy Dahlkemper announced two new confirmed positive cases of COVID-19 have been reported in Erie County. The total positive cases of COVID-19 in Erie County to date is 42, with
1,157 negatives and no deaths of Erie County residents.
Both of the new cases are in their 60s. One of them is tied back to a known positive; investigations are underway on the other case. Contact tracing continues by Erie County Department of Health. The two new
cases are located in Zone 1 and Zone 3, which can be found on the cumulative cases map by zone.
Approximately 200 people have been quarantined – some have completed their quarantine, and others are still in the 14-day period. Of the total 42 cases, gender is split completely down the middle at 50/50. Regarding race, Erie County Department of Health does not have control over this data. The information comes from lab
samples. As of yesterday, 13 are unknown, 21 are White, five are African American/Black, and one is Asian.
“We are number 14 in population and number 38 in terms of cases among Pennsylvania, which shows we are truly all working hard to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 here in Erie County,” Dahlkemper said. “We cannot continue to have better outcomes in our county if we let up on the precautions and contact tracing, and if we stop physical distancing. Please stay home unless you absolutely must go out. Wear a mask when you do go out and are near other people.”
Dr. Mary Anne Albaugh, medical director at Erie County Department of Human Services MH/ID, shared that all levels of care for outpatient services, partial hospital to inpatient and residential care for children, adolescents, adults and families are still being provided.
“Provider agencies have been able to utilize telehealth resources that allow for phone contact, video contact and when necessary, in-person contact with proper safety to support and care for those who are currently receiving their treatment and for those who may need a level of care in the future,” Albaugh said. “We are providing mental health services, ongoing services for those with intellectual disabilities, those in need of drug and alcohol treatment, those in need of early-intervention services, and those who are homeless.”
A list of resources can be found on the Emotional Distress Assistance page on eriecountypa.gov.
For questions related to symptoms, COVID-19 questions and enforcement, call 814-451-6700 or email ecdhinfo@eriecountypa.gov.
This week is National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week. Show appreciation for public safety first responders by writing an email of thanks and sending it to public.safety@eriecountypa.gov.
For more information related to COVID-19, including fact sheets, business resources, family resources, videos, translations, guidance for garden centers and landscaping supply companies, and more, visit eriecountypa.gov and the social media accounts for Erie County, Pa., and Erie County Department of Health.
