As concerns continue to rise over the declaration of a public health emergency in the U.S. as a result of the coronavirus, I wanted to share an update from Washington and provide you with some resources for public information.

First, let me assure you that the White House is responding aggressively to the coronavirus while remaining focused on the health and safety of the American people. This is not a partisan issue, and it should not be treated as such.

What we know about coronavirus is constantly changing. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) will provide updates on their website as they become available.

As of 10:30 p.m. on March 3, 124 cases of the coronavirus have been confirmed in the United States. There have been nine confirmed deaths, all in Washington State. Outside of China, more than 12,850 cases have been confirmed in more than 70 countries.

The CDC recommends taking basic hygiene precautions similar to those used to prevent the spread of other diseases. They include:

  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth
  • Stay home when you are sick
  • Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash

Additionally, the State Department has issued travel advisories for those considering out-of-country travel. The most updated advisories can be found on their website.

I’d like to applaud the Kentucky Department for Public Health and local elected officials across the Sixth District for their due diligence on this issue. The Kentucky Department for Public Health’s website is another great resource for information updated, as is your local city or county’s website.

As always, please do not hesitate to share your thoughts, concerns and questions with the staff in my Lexington District Office by calling (859) 219-1366 or my Washington, D.C. office at (202) 225-4706.

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