Update: CoronavirusMarch 10, 2020Hoosiers,
On Friday, the first case of coronavirus was confirmed in Marion County, Indiana. Since Friday, Indiana has confirmed a total of six cases, one in Marion, two in Hendricks, and one in each of Noble, Boone, and Adams Counties. Currently nationwide, 747 people have tested positive for coronavirus and at least 26 patients with the virus have died.
As our country works together to coordinate critical preparedness and response efforts, it's important we have an all-hands-on-deck approach to prevent further spread of the virus and protect our most vulnerable citizens, particularly our seniors.
Action in Congress
Last week I supported a bipartisan emergency spending package, which President Trump signed into law, to equip our country to fight the spread of coronavirus. Included in the package was funding to procure medical supplies (like masks) to supplement the Strategic National Stockpile, support our folks here in Indiana on the front lines like nurses, doctors, and first responders, and fund research and development of vaccines, therapeutics, and diagnostics.
Guidance from the CDC and the Indiana Department of Health
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Indiana Department of Health have up-to-date pages you can access to learn about how coronavirus spreads, how to prevent it, and information for schools, businesses, communities, and those planning to travel. Stay updated here.
What we can do as individuals
You and I have an important part to play in preventing further spread of this virus. The CDC recommends everyday preventative actions like:
Check out the below video update from the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) on the importance of washing your hands. To share the word with others in our community, you can share the video on Facebook here.
Additional thoughts
In case you missed it, I discussed our country's approach to coronavirus last week:
I will be sure to keep you updated as necessary on what we are doing on a federal level to fight the coronavirus and keep Hoosiers safe and healthy. As always, please don't hesitate to give our office a call or visit www.in.gov/isdh if you have any questions.
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