A Message From Rep. Raskin About the Coronavirus

January 30, 2020

Dear Neighbor, 

In response to the outbreak of the coronavirus in China and public reports of confirmed coronavirus cases in the United States, I want to take a moment to share some basic information on how to keep you and your loved ones safe and healthy. Please be aware that the Marylander who just underwent testing for coronavirus has tested negative, so we are unaware of any confirmed cases in our state.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared a global emergency as nearly 8,000 coronavirus cases have been reported worldwide, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) consider the coronavirus to be a serious public health threat. 

Symptoms

The coronavirus can be spread directly between humans. Symptoms can include fever, cough, and shortness of breath. If you have visited China within the past two weeks and start to feel ill, call your doctor immediately. 

Prevention 

There is currently no vaccine to fight this strain of coronavirus. However, below are steps recommended by the CDC that you can take to keep you and your loved ones safe and healthy:

• Wash your hands thoroughly and frequently with soap and water.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Wear a face mask.
• It is currently flu season, so please get your flu vaccine if you haven't already.

Travel Warnings

The State Department has issued a Level 4 Travel Advisory warning people to avoid traveling to Wuhan and the Hubei province in China. They have also issued a Level 3 Travel Advisory warning people to reconsider all travel to China. The China Travel Advisory can be found here. 

If you are still planning travel to China, 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.  

Additional Information

Experts have been working hard to understand this new strain of coronavirus. Because new information surfaces every day, please visit the sites below to stay up to date. 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provide updates on the virus and safety information for the public and healthcare professionals. 

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 call my District office at 301-354-1000.


All Best,

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