Vance County first responders forced to work double shifts after coronavirus hits staff

Vance County EMS is missing a full shift of emergency responders this week after positive coronavirus cases. Three to four employees have tested positive, county officials said. More positive tests are expected in the next couple of days.

"Cases are way up here, rising so quickly, EMS crews are feeling the strain," County manager Jordan McMillen said.

More than 13% of the county's cases came back positive from Nov. 21 through Dec. 4. State health officials expect community spread to only increase after the holidays. Vance County has seen a spike in cases since the beginning of November, according to WRAL DataTrackers.

"We have a lot of folks that whether they’re positive or not have to be sent home and quarantine, so it creates shortages on the EMS side," McMillen said.

Many first responders are having to work a double shift to cover for someone who is sick or in quarantine. McMillen said many employees are burnt out and worried about infecting their families with the virus.

The county is reaching out for help from other departments, just in case things get worse.

"Just having the availability of an ambulance or two or a team of three to six people that could step in when the time comes would be helpful but we’re going to be doing everything we can do to stay up and running," McMillen said.

All emergency responders will be tested this week, and the results will be back next week.

Residents of Vance County say they are doing their part to help keep those who risk their lives for others on a daily basis safe.

“First and foremost safety first," said Tarji Bowen, a Vance County resident. "Masks at all times it is so vital for everyone’s health. That’s something that we shouldn’t take lightly.”