Folks, I know there have been a lot of changes recently—here in Alabama and across the
nation—as we all respond to the spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). On Friday, March 13, Alabama confirmed its first case of COVID-19
and in the few days since, that number has quickly increased. I know for many folks there is a lot of uncertainty and fear and frustration, but I want
to reassure you that we are all in this together and we all need to do our part to limit the spread of the virus. That means staying home and
following other best practices. 
I encourage you to visit my COVID-19 Response Website, which has important health resources and
also information for parents, veterans, caregivers, businesses, and others who may need more detailed guidance. You can also stay up to date with the
latest guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
(CDC). If you are experiencing any COVID-19 symptoms including fever, cough and shortness of breath, please immediately
contact your health care provider to get guidance about whether you may or may not need to be tested. You can also call the Alabama Department of
Public Health at 1-888-264-2256 or visit their website.
Right now in Congress, we are actively working to negotiate our third major assistance package. The first bill provided $8.3 billion in funding to
support vaccine research and prevention and preparedness efforts. Our second, broader bill helped to expand paid sick leave, cover COVID-19 testing
costs, and strengthen safety-net programs like unemployment insurance and food assistance, among other helpful measures.
I want to urge you to continue to practice social distancing and stay home as much possible. If we all commit to staying
home and only going out when absolutely necessary, we will be able to more effectively slow the spread of the disease in our communities. These
measures will be inconvenient, no doubt, but this is a time we must remember we are each part of a broader community.
If you have questions, comments or concerns, please feel to contact me and my staff.
Sincerely, 
Doug Jones
Senator
for Alabama | 
