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Friend,
As we all
know, the situation surrounding the coronavirus outbreak is changing by
the day, and even by the hour.
Unfortunately, we saw a sharp spike in
confirmed cases and deaths over the weekend. Our hearts are broken for
these victims and their loved ones.
Today, I want to take a moment to
let you know about recent actions we’ve taken to combat this outbreak,
and get Georgians the information they need to make the right decisions
for their families.
To combat rampant misinformation online, the state
has now set up a hotline for all COVID-19 inquiries. It can be used to
ask for information regarding symptoms, to help determine whether
someone should get tested, and to report possible scams.
The number for
the hotline is 844-442-2681.
On March 14th, I declared a public health
state of emergency, and the General Assembly convened a special session
last week to ratify it. This has empowered our state to deploy all
necessary resources and allow the Department of Public Health to direct
specific action.
To increase testing, state officials have deployed
mobile testing sites in certain regions of Georgia, with more on the
way. We are prioritizing tests for our most vulnerable populations, as
well as the people responsible for their care, to conserve medical
supplies. In addition to that, I’m extending school closures across the
state through April 24th to help prevent exposure to our children.
I
have also authorized the Georgia Emergency Management Agency (GEMA) to
work with the Georgia National Guard to activate up to 2,000 troops.
These brave men and women are well-trained and ready to serve above and
beyond their traditional military duties.
They will assist with
COVID-19 mitigation and are available to help ensure the steady supply
of medical supplies, food, and other resources to keep Georgians safe.
One of our greatest concerns right now is hospital bed space. We are
working to determine existing capacity, and we’re running the numbers on
potential needs. The good news is we’ve received offers from several
private sector companies to use facilities they own as temporary
hospitals, should the need arise.
As this situation continues to
develop, [link removed] I would
encourage everyone to review and follow the CDC’s guidance on how to
protect yourself and your family.
We’re all in this together, and we
all must remain vigilant during this challenging time.
- Governor Brian
Kemp

P.S. Tonight (March 26th) I will be holding a televised Townhall
at 8pm to review CDC guidance, answer Frequently Asked Questions, and
discuss Georgia’s ongoing strategic response. For broadcast information
on how to tune in,
[link removed]
1275/?type=3&theater click here.
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