Full Notification

UPDATE 03/08/2020: The CDC has just informed Gilroy Fire Department officials that the patient suspected of having COVID-19 has tested NEGATIVE for the virus. Effective immediately, all fire crew members that were potentially exposed on 3/5/20 are removed from further self-monitoring. Original Release: A Gilroy resident has tested positive for Novel Coronavirus. On Thursday, March 5, Gilroy firefighters responded to a local call for a resident with chest pain. The resident was transported to Kaiser Santa Teresa by ambulance for a chest issue. Much later at Kaiser Santa Teresa, the resident was confirmed to have Novel Coronavirus. The resident is currently being treated in line with Santa Clara County Department of Public Health protocol. The Gilroy firefighters are symptom free. While Gilroy firefighters took measures to minimize potential exposure, the Gilroy Fire Department has been working closely with Santa Clara County Department of Public Health, the Santa Clara County EMS Agency, and the CDC as part of standard protocol to monitor the firefighters who were potentially exposed to the Novel Coronavirus. The Gilroy firefighters are being allowed to return to work while being monitored on a daily basis for the next 14 days. Out of an abundance of caution the City is currently evaluating all City programs and public events to ensure compliance with the latest recommendations from the Santa Clara County Department of Public Health and CDC. With the growing public health concerns surrounding the Novel Coronavirus, we want to assure you that our main concern is for the health and safety of you and your family. We will be providing more information and public advisory by this coming Monday afternoon. In the meantime, all residents are advised to continue following the Public Health’s proactive steps to protect your health and that of the community: • Stay home if you feel sick • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds • Used alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water is not available • Avoid close contact with other people • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth • Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue Please visit the webpages for the Santa Clara County Public Health Department and the CDC for up to date reliable information regarding this ongoing situation.