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Ocala
Thursday, March 28, 2024

Ocala Fire Rescue activates paramedic strike team amid COVID-19 outbreak

Ocala Fire Rescue has activated a special strike team to address concerns amid the COVID-19 outbreak.

The elite group of paramedics will work in partnership with the Florida Department of Health in Marion County to perform evaluations and recommendations for hospitalization of patients reporting COVID-19 symptoms to a dispatch center.

The team was put together to help residents dealing with symptoms that oftentimes are similar to seasonal allergies and the common flu. Those who are exhibiting a fever, dry cough and shortness of breath – symptoms associated with the Coronavirus – are encouraged to contact the Florida Department of Health by calling (352) 644-2590. That will help hasten the screening process for patients.

“The goal (of the strike team) is to alleviate citizen’s concerns by diagnosing and treating anyone who indeed has COVID-19, with minimal exposure to others, including first responders,” said Assistant Fire Chief Clint Welborn.