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

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1. Shell Ethane Cracker Plant Construction Comes to a Hault in Beaver County

Construction of the Shell ethane cracker plant in Beaver County was temporarily placed on hold March 18 after county officials called for construction to stop amid COVID-19 concerns.

2. City of Pittsburgh Taking Further Steps to Limit the Spread of COVID-19; Assist Residents in Need

On March 18, the City of Pittsburgh announced its move to 'Level 2' emergency operations. As part of the move, the city will further restrict nonessential face-to-face interaction between its personnel and residents to limit the spread of COVID-19. Additionally, it's rolling out a number of programs to assist residents in need, such as one to distribute meals to senior citizens.

3. Emergency Action Fund Launched to Bring Relief to Pittsburgh Region

Several of Pittsburgh's notable foundations joined together to launch an Emergency Action Fund as a way to bring rapid and effective relief to the community as it recovers from the impact of COVID-19. Duquesne Light announced a $500,000 contribution to the fund held at The Pittsburgh Foundation to support its customers in Allegheny and Beaver counties and to encourage other businesses and leaders also to give to the fund. Individuals can learn more and give here.

4. Allegheny Health Network Opens its First Four COVID-19 Testing Locations

The Allegheny Health Network (AHN) announced the opening of its first four COVID-19 testing locations. The drive-through testing sites are located in Bethel Park, Erie, Monroeville and Wexford. AHN hopes to complete 50 tests per day at each location.

5. In Partnership with the City, Pittsburgh Public Schools Announce New Meal Distribution Locations for Students

The City of Pittsburgh Department of Parks & Recreation and the Salvation Army are partnering with the Pittsburgh Public Schools to offer grab-and-go meals to students at four new locations.

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 19, 2020 at 2:00 p.m.