Statement from Executive Director David Fillman on COVID-19 (coronavirus)
As of this notice, 22 presumptive positive cases of COVID-19 (coronavirus) have been reported in Pennsylvania. This number is expected to rise, and state agencies and other employers of AFSCME-represented workers are taking as many precautions as possible.
West Chester University, which employs members of AFSCME Local 2345, has moved to remote learning for the remainder of the spring semester. Other state universities are expected to take similar actions.
All of this has resulted in an influx of calls to AFSCME staff with questions and concerns about how to handle this ever-evolving situation.
AFSCME Council 13 is in direct contact with local leaders and the more than 400 employers that employ its members. We will release more information through the appropriate channels (including on www.AFSCME13.org and/or direct contact to specific areas) as soon as we have it.
In the coming days and weeks, Council 13 will work to determine what support its represented employees need. If you have any verified information from your employer or any questions, please direct them to Council 13 via the Member Resource Center at 1-800-523-7263.
Also, be sure to document and report any cases in which you feel your rights as a worker have been violated, just as you would at any other time.
While this is a very serious situation, it is not a reason to panic. AFSCME has to be extra cautious considering its members direct contact with the public on a regular basis. Continue to take precautions like regular handwashing and avoiding touching your face.
AFSCME International has compiled a webpage with resources that address how to keep yourself and your family safe, including resources that specifically address concerns public service workers may have. That can be found at www.afscme.org/covid-19.
Testing for COVID–19 (coronavirus) will be $0 copay for Aetna members that qualify (based on CDC guidelines for testing). This includes PEBTF-covered commonwealth employees.
Please continue to monitor www.AFSCME13.org, as well as information from state and federal agencies, as this situation develops. Thank you for all that you do.