I want to make sure you have the resources you need as our state and nation confront coronavirus (COVID-19). At this time, a public health emergency has been declared, and there are over 700 cases confirmed in the United States.
How the federal government has been preparing
The federal government has been preparing for a public health crisis like this.
Since 2015, Congress has increased strategic investments to our public health agencies, including a 70 percent increase to federal funding to infectious disease response. See the table below for funding increases since 2015.
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What the federal government has been doing recently
Last week, President Trump signed the Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental, which I voted for and which provides $7.8 billion for our nation’s response. The funding measure includes
- More than $4 billion to make diagnostic tests more broadly available,
- $2 billion for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) response efforts, and
- $20 million for disaster assistance loans.
Additionally, the law opens the door for telehealth to help avoid potentially overcrowding health care facilities, especially in rural areas.
What you can do to stay healthy
To protect yourself and your family during this time, please keep in mind these best practices from the CDC:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, particularly after going to the bathroom, before eating, and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. If you can’t access soap and water, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
- Stay home if you are sick.
Watch this video from the CDC about how to stop the spread of germs
How to stay informed
Because this is an ever-changing situation, please consult the following resources for the most up-to-date information:
You may also visit my website for updates.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to my office.
Greg
