John --

With 22 cases of presumed or confirmed COVID-19 (coronavirus) now in Georgia, the state is on high alert. Thankfully, we are lucky to have some of the world’s smartest experts at the Centers for Disease Control here in Georgia working to quickly and efficiently coordinate the national response to this worldwide epidemic.

While the risk to the general public remains low, it’s important that you have the resources you need to keep yourself and your community healthy and safe during this time. Here are the most important precautions to take:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick
• Avoid touching your face
• Stay home when you are sick

In Congress, we’ve already moved quickly to pass emergency funding to boost the response of the federal, state, and local governments. 

During times like this, it’s never been more important to stay informed, John. You can visit the CDC’s website for the latest coronavirus news and all that you need to know: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.

And for the latest local updates, please see the Georgia Department of Health’s COVID-19 website. 

Thanks for your vigilance, and stay alert.

-- Lucy