5 Things You Should Know About the COVID-19 Response in Pittsburgh

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1. State of Emergency Declared in the City of Pittsburgh

On Friday, March 13, Pittsburgh Mayor Bill Peduto declared a State of Emergency in Pittsburgh and announced an Executive Order prohibiting public gatherings of more than 250 people beginning on Monday, March 16 at 9 a.m.

2. The First Positive Cases of COVID-19 Announced in Allegheny County

At a press conference on Saturday, March 14, Allegheny County Executive Rich Fitzgerald joined with Allegheny Health Department, Allegheny Health Network, and UPMC officials to announce the first two cases of COVID-19 in Allegheny County, one day after a case was announced in neighboring Washington County.

Amid rising concerns of positive COVID-19 cases in Allegheny County, UPMC announced it's ready to begin testing for COVID-19 at an outpatient center on the South Side beginning next week.

3. Pittsburgh Utility Companies Discontinuing Service Shutoff Activities

The water, gas and electric utility companies serving the Pittsburgh region announced they're discontinuing service shutoff activities until at least May 1, 2020 as a way to ease the burden this public health crisis is placing on their customers.

4. ​ Schools Districts Across the Region Announce Closures

School districts throughout Allegheny and Beaver counties announced closures, including the Pittsburgh Public Schools, to help stop the spread of COVID-19. Many schools are announcing plans to support students who depend on school meal programs.

5. Cancellation of Events and Services; Closing of Venues

Concerns over the COVID-19 outbreak are leading to the closure of major events and venues, including the St. Patrick's Day Parade, Pittsburgh Home & Garden Show, Carnegie Museums, Heinz History Center, Fort Pitt Museum, Rivers Casino and more.

To help prevent the spread of COVID-19, please remember to practice good hygiene, such as regularly washing your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds and coughing and sneezing into your elbow. Call your primary care provider if you're experiencing flu-like symptoms, such as a fever, cough or shortness of breath. Find additional helpful resources for preventing the spread of illness here.

Above all else, Duquesne Light values the health and safety of its employees and customers. As such, the company has a task force working around the clock in response to the COVID-19 outbreak. Alongside the CDC, Allegheny Health Department and other local officials, Duquesne Light is taking the necessary steps to keep its employees healthy so it can continue to provide the region with safe, reliable power. Learn more here.

Last Updated March 14, 2020 at 2:30 p.m.