Catching Up with Annie
Taking Action to Respond to the Coronavirus
Washington, D.C.,
March 5, 2020
Dear Friend, House Advances Bipartisan Coronavirus Response Funding Today, I supported a bipartisan, emergency funding bill that will help address the coronavirus outbreak and support the efforts of our state and local health agencies who are on the frontlines of combating this virus. This bill would provide $8.3 billion in new funding for a robust response to this public health emergency, including $950 million for states and local health agencies to conduct critical public health activities including surveillance, lab testing and infection control. Importantly, this bill would provide $3 billion in research and development of new vaccines, and provide direct reimbursements to state and localities for costs incurred for coronavirus preparedness and response activities. This includes the procurement of personal protective equipment and other medical supplies which are needed for hospitals, community health centers and other medical facilities. It is imperative that the Senate swiftly passes this funding bill so it gets to the President’s desk. My top priority is protecting the health, safety and well-being of Granite Staters, and I remain committed to working with anybody to mitigate the spread of this virus. Taking Action to Respond to the Coronavirus On Monday morning, I joined Senators Jeanne Shaheen and Maggie Hassan, Congressman Chris Pappas and Governor Chris Sununu in Concord for a briefing from state and federal officials on New Hampshire’s preparedness for coronavirus (COVID-19). This briefing comes on the heels of a briefing last week with Secretary of Health and Human Services Alex Azar before the House Energy and Commerce Committee. Following the briefing, we held a press conference alongside State Epidemiologist Dr. Benjamin Chan to provide an update. I will continue to be in contact with leaders across the state including hospital and government officials and closely monitor the situation following the first two confirmed cases of COVID-19 in New Hampshire.
In order to keep you and your loved ones safe from coronavirus, it is important to take commonsense precautions. One of the simplest and most effective ways to protect yourself and others is by washing your hands frequently for at least 20 seconds. In addition, avoid sharing household items such as cups or silverware, and avoid direct contact with people who are sick. If you or a family member are ill, stay home, contact your physician right away, and follow their instructions. For more information about resources and how to protect yourself and your loved ones, visit CDC.gov or DHHS.NH.gov.
Here are some helpful resources regarding symptoms, prevention, response, and further information about coronavirus:
Sincerely, |
