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We all play a role

Dear Friend, 

During these uncertain times, it’s more important than ever to stay informed. My website has coronavirus information available for Iowans, and I encourage everyone to continue to visit coronavirus.gov and stay informed on how we can all do our part to protect our loved ones and communities. 

On Monday, the Administration, in conjunction with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), released new guidelines for the next 15 days to slow the spread of coronavirus.

15 Days to Slow the Spread

While the government can empower health professionals and government leaders on testing, tracking, and containment, some of the most important and effective ways to slow the spread are at the individual and community level – simple things that each of us can do to help. I urge all Iowans to follow the Administration’s recommendations for the next 15 days to help keep our most high-risk populations safe:

1. Listen to and follow the directions of our state and local authorities.
2. If you feel sick, stay home. Do not go to work. Contact your medical provider. 
3. If your children are sick, keep them at home. Contact your medical provider.
4. If someone in your household has tested positive for the Coronavirus, keep the entire household at home.
5. If you are an older American, stay home and away from other people.
6. If you are a person with underlying health conditions—stay home and away from other people.

Do Your Part

As a reminder, these guidelines are not limited to just those who are most vulnerable—far from it. While some of the younger and healthier folks in Iowa might feel like they don’t need to take these recommendations seriously, they absolutely should. 

While younger individuals may be at lower risk of developing serious symptoms, that doesn’t mean they shouldn’t take the same precautions as everyone else. Everyone—no matter your age or health—can carry the virus and inadvertently spread it to others.

1. Work from home whenever possible.
2. Avoid large social gatherings in groups of more than 10 people. 
3. Avoid eating out – use drive-thru, pickup, or delivery options.
4. Avoid discretionary travel, shopping trips, and social visits. 
5. Do not visit nursing homes, retirement homes, or long-term care facilities.
   

I’m continuing to work hard in the Senate with my Democratic and Republican colleagues to find ways to provide additional relief to Iowans. I know these are tough times, but Iowans, and all Americans, are resilient. 

We will get through this together.

For more updates on what's happening in Washington, D.C. and Iowa, be sure to 'Like' my Facebook page, follow me on Twitter @SenJoniErnst, and subscribe to my YouTube channel.

Thank you!