WASHINGTON –Rep. Marcia L. Fudge, issued the following statement Monday after Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine announced the first confirmed cases of coronavirus, also known as COVID-19, in the state:

“Today, the first three cases of coronavirus (COVID-19) were confirmed in the state of Ohio, all of which were identified in Cuyahoga County.  My thoughts are with the individuals and families impacted by COVID-19, and I am praying for their speedy recovery.  As new details emerge regarding the impact of this disease on Ohioans, it is important for us to avoid panic, stay informed, and take basic precautions to keep the Northeast Ohio community healthy and safe. 

“Last week, Congress passed a bipartisan, bicameral emergency coronavirus response package of $8.3 billion to help combat this health concern and protect the American people.  I will continue to support measures that ensure public health officials and health care providers have the resources and equipment they need to contain and eliminate this disease.”

Background

While there is currently no vaccine to prevent the coronavirus, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends taking the following basic precautionsto help prevent the spread of respiratory diseases: avoiding close contact with people who are sick; avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth; staying home when you are sick; covering your cough or sneeze with a tissue; disinfecting frequently touched objects and surfaces; washing 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.

On March 4, 2020, the House of Representatives passed an $8.3 billion emergency coronavirus response package to help combat COVID-19 that was later passed by the Senate and signed into law by the President.  The bill designates funding for: research and development of vaccines; public health prevention, preparedness, and response at the local level; and low-interest loans to impacted small businesses.  Additionally, the package includes funding to ensure any future vaccines are affordable and available to ALL Americans.

For the latest updates on the coronavirus and information on travel advisories, visit the CDC's Information Page for the Coronavirus Disease.  For updates on the number of confirmed cases in the state of Ohio, visit the Ohio Department of Health COVID-19 Page. 

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