Coronavirus Response and Updates

February 28, 2020

Dear Friend, 

Many people have asked me what our government is doing to respond to the global spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) and what can be done to keep our families and communities safe. Click here to learn more about the coronavirus, including tips for how you can stay safe. 

I believe Americans deserve a coordinated, comprehensive, whole-of-government response to prepare for the possible spread of coronavirus within the United States. 

I am working with House leadership to swiftly advance a strong, strategic funding package that fully addresses the scale and seriousness of this public health crisis. In the meantime, I want you to know that my office will continue to stay in close contact with the local, state, and federal stakeholders to asses our preparedness and ensure that California is prepared should an outbreak occur. 

Below are some important reminders from the Centers for Disease Control on how to prevent the spread of coronavirus. These are also posted on my website, huffman.house.gov, where I will regularly post any relevant updates for California’s second district.

Recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control:

There is currently no vaccine to prevent coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus. However, as a reminder, CDC always recommends everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory diseases, including:

  • 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.
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
  • Follow CDC’s recommendations for using a facemask.
    • CDC does not recommend that people who are well wear a facemask to protect themselves from respiratory diseases, including COVID-19.
    • Facemasks should be used by people who show symptoms of COVID-19 to help prevent the spread of the disease to others. The use of facemasks is also crucial for health workers and people who are taking care of someone in close settings (at home or in a health care facility).
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
  • If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.

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With Best Regards,

Jared Huffman
Member of Congress