For now, operations of the McKean County court system will continue without major changes in light of the concerns about the spread of COVID 19.

On Thursday, McKean County President Judge John Pavlock said plans have been prepared to step up protective measures “depending on the severity of issues.”

One request Pavlock has for the general public is this: “if you are appearing for a proceeding, including jury duty, and are ill, such as fever, chills, etc., that you contact judge’s chambers at 814-887-3323 before appearing.”

The courthouse and the district judges have video conferencing available, and Pavlock said officials are “testing the connections between the courtrooms and State Correction and our Jail.”

In a memo to staff, he reiterated, “We need to work together to assure that we only have people come to our offices who need to be here in person.”

Limiting contact whenever possible may help stop the spread of any potential illness.

“The plans include limiting the need for interaction here at the court if necessary, such as conducting certain proceedings via video connection,” the judge explained.

“Of course, it also includes taking common sense precautionary measures,” he continued, explaining staff have been asked to clean common areas often and use hand sanitizer provided by the county.

“It is difficult to prepare for every scenario but, again, we are undertaking our best effort to plan for different scenarios,” Pavlock said. “For now we see no need to change normal operations but are obtaining updates and information daily and will take increased action if needed.”

He explained court staff are staying in contact with the McKean County commissioners and “are obtaining updates and guidance from the Administrative Office of Pennsylvania Courts.”

Pavlock said, should the need arise, court officials are considering allowing people to work from home when possible. “If there is a need it could be put in effect on short notice,” he said.

He encouraged, too, any staff who may fall ill to stay home.