Cancellations pile up as coronavirus spreads

By TAYLOR BROWN

tbrown@yourmvi.com

As the coronavirus spreads throughout the state, physicians are urging area residents to take precautionary measures — and some religious and educational organizations already have.

Sundeep Ekbote, chief of emergency medicine at Monongahela Valley Hospital in Carroll Township, said his advice is easy to follow.

“Wash your hands. Wash your hands. Wash your hands,” Ekbote said. “Those simple instructions that everyone learns during childhood are your best defense for combating COVID-19.” 

While some residents are panicking, leaving shelves at area pharmacies and grocery stores empty, he said there is no need for extreme measures.

“Right now in the Mon Valley region people should be just as concerned about the flu — especially those who have not been vaccinated against influenza this year,” he said. “This is still cold-and-flu season. Most people with runny noses and coughs simply have a cold. 

“Just as we always advise, wash your hands often with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer and do not touch your face.”

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