How to Protect Yourself from the Coronavirus
Dear [firstname],
I am reaching out to ensure you have the best available information to protect and care for yourself and loved ones as we continue to learn more about coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). 

The Centers for Disease and Control and Prevention (CDC) considers the COVID-19 to be a serious public health threat. Yesterday, I voted to pass the Coronavirus Preparedness and Response Supplemental Appropriations Act to fully address the COVID-19 and protect Americans from this public health crisis. This $8.3 billion emergency supplemental package will robustly address COVID-19, including vaccine development, support for state and local governments, and assistance for affected small businesses. Click here to read my statement. 
It is important that you are aware of the disease and the efforts necessary to prevent it from being spread. Click here if you would like to continue to receive updates. 
Symptoms
COVID-19 is a respiratory illness that can spread from person to person. Symptoms can include fever, cough, and shortness of breath. If you have traveled within the past two weeks and start to feel ill, call your doctor.                                 
Prevention

The best way to prevent infection is to avoid being exposed to the virus that causes COVID-19. There are simple everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory viruses, including: 

  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available.

If you are sick, to keep from spreading respiratory illness to others, you should:

  • Stay home except to get medical care. 
  • Call ahead before visiting your doctor.
  • Wear a facemask.
  • Cover your coughs and sneezes.
  • Avoid sharing personal household items.
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available.
Travel Warnings
CDC recommends that travelers avoid all nonessential travel to China and South Korea. CDC also advises that older adults and those with chronic medical conditions consider postponing nonessential travel to Iran, Italy, and Japan. Travelers should practice usual precautions when traveling to Hong Kong. If you plan to travel internationally, I encourage you to enroll in the State Department's Smart Traveler Enrollment Program to receive important messages, alerts, updates, and travel advisories while you are there.
Further Information
Experts have been working hard to understand this new strain of coronavirus. Because new information is coming out every day, please visit the sites below to stay up to date.

The Centers for Disease Control provides updates on the virus and safety information for the public and healthcare professionals.

The Texas Department of State Health Services provides updates on the disease's spread within the state, as well as frequently asked questions available here.

The State Department provides a list of travel advisories for those who are planning to fly outside of the United States.

The safety of you and your loved ones is of the utmost importance. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact my office at Veronica.Escobar@mail.house.gov. 
Sincerely,
Veronica Escobar
Member of Congress