Rep. Paul Schemel self-quarantining with COVID-19

State Rep. Paul Schemel, a Republican whose district includes Greencastle and Antrim Township, has tested positive for COVID-19 after beginning to have symptoms Wednesday, Sept. 30, and the House of Representatives voting session scheduled for Thursday, Oct. 1, was canceled as a a result.

“After experiencing mild symptoms of COVID-19 yesterday, I took a COVID-19 test today and was informed of a positive result this morning," Schemel said in a new release issued Thursday. "Though I was in the Capitol on Tuesday, Sept. 29, I was experiencing no symptoms. I was not in the Capitol on Wednesday, Sept. 30, when I began experiencing symptoms. Upon experiencing symptoms on Wednesday, I began to self-quarantine.

“As soon as I received a positive test result on Thursday, I informed the appropriate House offices. I am following the advice of medical professionals and the protocols of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives to ensure the safety of my family, staff and fellow members," he said.

"Out of an abundance of caution for all Capitol staff, caucus employees and members, House voting session scheduled for Thursday, Oct. 1, 2020, is canceled," House Speaker Bryan Cutler said in a news release.

Cutler did not name Schemel, but said, "The member is working with human resources to determine all interactions with other members and staff to track any possible exposures under Pennsylvania Department of Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines. Those who may have been exposed are being contacted."

Cutler noted the House chamber, meeting rooms and staff work areas are professionally sanitized nightly after each session day.