PSPA statement regarding coronavirus, COVID-19

Posted on by PSPA

Our top priority is and will continue to be the health and well-being of the citizens of Pennsylvania and the many dedicated members of the Pennsylvania Society of Physician Assistants. We are committed to safety first, so out of concern for our members and the patients they meet and treat daily throughout the Commonwealth, the Board of Directors has decided to suspend all in-person events for a period of at least 30 days from March 14, 2020.

Examples of in-person events may include: regional dinner meetings, committee meetings, liaison meetings, director meetings, etc.

Please… vigilance is of vital importance. Educate all those you meet.  Here are some facts regarding COVID-19.

  • Coronavirus is a group of diverse, common viruses that includes some causes of the common cold. The new strain that originated in China is called SARS CoV 2 and causes COVID-19.
  • COVID-19 can present with symptoms between two and 14 days following exposure.
  • Symptoms can be similar to a cold or flu with fever, cough and shortness of breath.
  • Human coronaviruses spread the same way the flu or a cold does:
    • Droplets traveling through the air by coughing or sneezing
    • Close personal contact, such as touching or shaking hands
    • Touching an object or surface with the virus on it
  • Precautionary measures for COVID-19 are similar to those of other viruses like the flu. The best way to stay healthy is through diligent respiratory hygiene:
    • Frequent handwashingis highly recommended, especially after coughing or visiting public areas.
    • Alcohol-based sanitizers and wipesare also good options for hand hygiene, as long as they have at least 60% alcohol.
    • Covering your mouth when coughingis an important way to stop the spread of viruses like COVID-19 and others that are spread through droplets.
    • Clean and disinfectfrequently touched objects with disinfectant household wipes or sprays.
  • If you are feeling sick or showing signs of an illness, we recommend acting with an abundance of caution and staying home and calling your provider for additional instructions. They can recommend proper treatment and, if necessary, alert public health officials.

Thank you to our fellow PAs and other healthcare providers who are on the frontlines and working tirelessly for our patients.  Your hard work and sacrifices do not go unnoticed or unappreciated.  We must all continue to support each other, however possible during this unprecedented time.  The PSPA leaders will continue to monitor the COVID-19 events and update you when appropriate.  We appreciate your flexibility as we all seek the best course of action in these extraordinary times.