Mahoning Valley - The American Heart Association is reporting from the front lines of hospitals that there is a drop in the number of heart attacks and strokes nationally. But, they say the Coronovairus certainly isn't stopping people from having these cardiac arrests. So, what is happening?

This also comes as 911 dispatchers in the Valley are seeing fewer emergency calls.

"We're down about 45-50%," said Ernest Cook, Director of Trumbull County 911, who adds that during a weekly calls with other 911 directors from across the state he has learned they are experiencing a decrease in calls as well.

He believes, the drop in calls can be attributed to fewer cars on the road, bars, restaurants and retailers not open. But, Columbiana County's 911 Director, Brian Rutledge, also believes it's a general desire to avoid hospitals right now.

"In the past you would have an auto accident and a sore neck or back or something they need to go get that x-rayed, now its', 'Oh I'll see how it feels later,'" said Rutledge. "They just don't want to go sit in the emergency room right now, they just don't want to."

 And, the American Heart Association fears that desire to avoid hospitals is stopping people from calling even in the event of a heart attack or stroke. Lanes Life Trans Ambulance agrees it's a piece of the puzzle.

"We want to make sure people understand it's still okay to seek medical attention during this epidemic," said Assistant Chief of Operations at Lanes, Judy Hartley.

Hartley believes, another piece of the puzzle may be that signs of a stroke or heart attack can mirror the tightness in the chest, or shortness of breath, associated with COVID-19. Meaning you may not need to quarantine, but seek immediate medical attention.

"If you don't feel well, and you're unsure. It's okay to call 911," said Hartley, "Let us come and check you out. That doesn't mean you have to go to the hospital," said Hartley.

But, even if you do endup at a hospital, the American Heart Association wants you to know hospitals are safe -  following protocols to sanitize, socially distance and keep infected people away from others.