Coronavirus (COVID-19) FAQs from SwiftMD

As the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak is beginning to take hold in some communities across the U.S., we would like you to know what SwiftMD can do for you in the event you develop symptoms of the virus.

SwiftMD doctors can provide consults for members who are suffering from symptoms of upper respiratory illness that occur with COVID-19, such as fever, cough, and shortness of breath. To schedule a consult log in at SwiftMD.com, or call 833-SWIFTMD (833-794-3863).

SwiftMD doctors can provide supportive care to relieve symptoms, and answer questions about COVID-19 and help a member assess their risk factors, such as whether they have traveled to a high-risk area or been exposed to anyone who has traveled to a high-risk area or tested positive for COVID-19. Most cases are mild, and affected patients can isolate themselves at home to recover. Currently, there is no specific antiviral treatment or vaccine for COVID-19.

For a definitive diagnosis of COVID-19, members should contact their PCP’s office to arrange for the necessary testing through the state Department of Health, or LabCorp and Quest Diagnostics. If symptoms become severe, members should seek care in person at an ER.

You should not panic about COVID-19, but do be prepared. It’s not too soon to begin thoughtful social distancing. Avoid large crowds, big meetings and food-sharing. Air travel poses risks of exposure to large numbers of people, so avoid flying if you can. Wash your hands frequently, avoid touching your face, and follow good cough and sneeze etiquette. If you are sick, stay home so as not to expose others. The U.S. healthcare system may soon be overwhelmed by the pandemic. All of us have the opportunity to help stave off the virus and conserve scarce healthcare resources for those who need it the most.

Coronavirus (COVID-19) FAQs

More Information Provided by the CDC

More Information Provided by WHO (World Health Organization)

Washington Local 302 Members, please refer to the Washington State Employment Security Department's "COVID-19 Scenarios and the Benefits" chart for important information here. More information specific for King County can be here.

Alaska Local 302 Memberse, please refer to the following webpages for important information here and here. More informatin specific for the Municipality of Anchorage can be found here.

Idaho Local 302 Members, please refer to the following webspage for important information here.

Local 302 Members: As the novel coronavirus, a.k.a. COVID-19, outbreak continues to expand, so have all of our concerns. 

The total number of COVID-19 cases confirmed or presumed positive in the United States is still low -- just north of 200 total cases. Of these, there have been a growing number of fatalities, with many of these concentrated in a single nursing home in Washington, as health authorities have emphasized that the fatality rate is higher among the elderly and those with underlying health problems. 

It is likely that the number of cases will increase so it is important to plan for a variety of scenarios. At this early stage of the outbreak in this country the best thing to do is stay informed and be prepared to alter plans when needed.  Local 302 is committed to doing what we can to keep our members safe by requesting that our employers institute workplace policies and guidance to reduce the risk of infection. We expect a workplace where employees feel free to communicate their health and safety concerns without fear of reprisal or negative impacts on pay or employment. 

We are vigilantly evaluating the situation daily and will continue to discuss contingency plans to be able to continue the work of the union without jeopardizing the health of our employees. We will issue new instructions or recommendations as the conditions change and will communicate the information to you. 

Steps you can take to prevent the flu and the common cold will also help prevent the spread of the new coronavirus:

• Wash hands often with soap and water. If that’s not available, use hand sanitizer.

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands.

• Avoid contact with people who are sick.

• Stay home while you are sick and avoid close contact with others.

• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or sleeve when coughing or sneezing.

If you have symptoms and were exposed to a confirmed COVID-19 patient, call both your health care provider. You can also call the state coronavirus hotline at 800-525-0127.  If you have symptoms but don’t know if you were exposed, don’t head straight to the emergency room or urgent care, where you might infect others. Call your doctor about whether, when and where you should be evaluated.

Alaska AGC MLA Update

Dear Brothers & Sisters, we are happy to announce that the Alaska AGC MLA has been voted and approved by the membership of Alaska as of 3/4/2020.

Available Medical Resources

Dear Brothers & Sisters, with the flu season and the latest news of the spread of the Novel Coronavirus in our region, now is a great time to consider use of our member telemedicine service, Swift MD.

Many of our members can attest to how quick and easy it is to speak directly with a doctor over the phone if you are feeling sick and may be in need of antibiotics or other care. Take advantage of this member service available to you!

Local 302 Oral History

Dear Brothers and Sisters, if you have the time to watch and listen at your leisure, please take a look at our newest addition to our website, oral history videos from Local 302 members and retirees. These can be found on the left hand side under the column options, "Watch Local 302 Member and Retiree Oral History Videos".

Take the time the learn the history of our Local so that we may never forget it.

Alaska AGC Tentative Agreement

Please see the attached document for our Tentative Agreement with the Alaska AGC.

New Family Leave Insurance Benefits Program

The new Washington Family Leave Insurance Benefits Program takes effect on January 1st, 2020 in the state of Washington.

Please see the link below for additional information and eligibility requirements.

https://paidleave.wa.gov/

Dear Brothers and Sisters:

As the 2019 holiday season nears, I have the distinct pleasure of inviting you and one guest to attend our annual Holiday parties throughout the districts. It is very important you RSVP so that we can be financially responsible to make sure we don’t order too much or too little food. Please be respectful and contact your local union office to RSVP for the specific location you plan to attend.

In keeping with tradition, Local 302 collects and donates toys and/or canned food to our regional labor agencies. If you would like to help brighten the holidays for less fortunate children, please bring a new, unwrapped toy to the Holiday party in your district. We will deliver them to the Labor Agency to be wrapped and distributed in time for the holidays.

ALASKA

12/13/2019: Anchorage – Tikahtnu Room A/B at the Dena’ina Center, 600 West Seventh Ave., Anchorage, AK 99501. Appetizers and No Host Bar at 6:00PM. Dinner at 7:00PM. Please call (907) 561-5288 to RSVP by November 25^th.

12/14/2019: Fairbanks – Westmark Hotel, 813 Noble Street, Fairbanks, AK 99701. Appetizers and No Host Bar at 6:30PM. Dinner at 7:00PM. Please call (907) 452-8131 to RSVP by November 25^th.

12/15/2019: Juneau – Glacier Room at the Juneau Travelodge at 9200 Glacier Highway. Appetizers and No Host Bar at 6:00PM. Dinner at 6:30PM. Please call (907) 586-3850 to RSVP by November 25^th.

WASHINGTON

12/2/2019: Hoquiam – Hoquiam Elks, 624 K St, Hoquiam – Appetizers and No Host Bar at 6:00PM. Dinner at 6:30PM. Please call (425) 806-0302 to RSVP by November 18^th.

12/3/2019: Mt. Vernon – Best Western Plus Skagit Valley Inn Convention Center, 2300 Market Street, Mt. Vernon – Appetizers and No Host Bar at 6:00PM. Dinner at 6:30PM. Please call (425) 806-0302 to RSVP by November 18^th.

12/4/2019: Bremerton –Kitsap Conference Center, 100 Washington Ave, Bremerton – Appetizers and No Host Bar at 6:00PM. Dinner at 6:30PM. Please call (425) 806-0302 to RSVP by November 18^th.

12/7/2019: Bothell - Union Hall, 18701 120th Avenue NE, Bothell – Appetizers and No Host Bar at 5:30PM. Dinner at 6:30PM. Please call (425) 806-0302 to RSVP by November 18^th.

12/8/2019: Pt. Angeles – Red Lion Hotel, 221 N. Lincoln St, Pt Angeles – Appetizers and No Host Bar at 6:00PM. Dinner at 6:30PM. Please call (425) 806-0302 to RSVP by November 18^th.

12/10/2019: Spokane – Ruby River Hotel, 700 N Division Street, Spokane – Appetizers and No Host Bar at 6:00PM. Dinner at 6:30PM. Please call (509) 624-5365 to RSVP by November 18^th.

12/17/2019: Pasco – Red Lion Hotel & Conference Center, 2525 N. 20^th Ave, Pasco – Appetizers and No Host Bar at 6:00PM. Dinner at 6:30PM. Please call (509) 624-5365 to RSVP by November 25^th.

12/18/2019: Yakima – Red Lion Hotel, 607 E. Yakima Ave, Yakima – Appetizers and No Host Bar at 6:00PM. Dinner at 6:30PM. Please call (425) 806-0302 to RSVP by November 25^th.

12/19/2019: Wenatchee –The Rivertop Bar & Grill located at The Coast Wenatchee Center Hotel, 201 N. Wenatchee Ave., Wenatchee – Appetizers and No Host Bar at 6:00PM. Dinner at 6:30PM. Please call (425) 806-0302 to RSVP by November 25^th.

IDAHO

12/11/2019: Pocatello – Red Lion Hotel Pocatello, 1555 Pocatello Creek Road, Pocatello – Appetizers and No Host Bar at 6:00PM. Dinner at 6:30PM. Please call (208) 232-8492 by November 18^th.

Best wishes for the holiday season!

Fraternally,

Daren Konopaski                                                                                                   

Business Manager and General Vice President

Scam Alert / Heads Up

Robo Calls for Apprenticeship Contribtions

We have received reports that members have been solicited for money for the "IUOE Apprenticeship Program". This is not sanctioned by the IUOE and is a scam, do not give them any contributions.

For those who participated in our annual Charity Shooting this year, you can find any photos taken from the event here.

Thank you for participating and we hope to see you next year!