John,

I know that as we try to combat the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) in Delaware and across the country, people are anxious and looking for answers.

I have always believed that knowledge is power, and that is especially true today. So I wanted to share some resources that can provide helpful, timely information.

I would encourage all Delawareans to check the Department of Health and Social Services website regularly. There, you will find the latest information from our state, including closures and the number of confirmed positive cases of coronavirus in Delaware.

Delaware has also opened a Public Health Call Center to take questions from the public about the coronavirus. Hours of operation are 8:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10:00 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. The call center number is 1-866-408-1899. You can also submit questions by emailing [email protected].

Another good and trusted resource is the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website and its social media channels. The public health experts at CDC are sharing regular updates with the public, including tips to keep you and your family healthy and what to do if you think you might be sick.

Stopping the spread of this virus is going to take an all-hands-on-deck effort. Federal, state and local governments and private businesses all have a role to play.

Congress has already passed $8.3 billion in emergency funding to help make sure that the men and women who are on the front lines battling this virus every day and caring for patients have the resources and supplies they need. That was a good first step, but there’s much more we need to do. The Senate needs to act quickly to pass the Families First Coronavirus Response Act to support hard-working Americans, provide much-needed relief and make more tests available. At a time when every day counts, this should have been passed in the Senate much sooner. We don’t have time to waste.

As individuals, we all need to do our part, too. We all have an obligation not just to look out for ourselves, but to look out for our family, friends, neighbors, coworkers and, yes, even strangers. For the time being, this means postponing gatherings of more than 10 people, teleworking if possible, and remaining at home when you feel sick.

We cannot beat this virus on our own; it’s going to take all of us working together, being responsible and caring for those around us.

In that spirit, can you forward this email to five friends today? Make sure that people in your circle have access to updated information from public health experts and the latest information those on the front lines.

I will be checking in and doing my part to make sure we are spreading facts, not fear.

In the meantime, take care of one another and wash those hands!

Stay safe and healthy,

Tom