Debbie's Blog
Coronavirus update: March 17, 2020
Washington,
March 17, 2020
Here’s an update for Tuesday, March 17. We will continue these updates as long as necessary.
Thought of the day: Even if you are part of a “not at risk group” you can still get your friends or family sick. Actors Max Brooks and Mel Brooks explain it perfectly in this video here. As of last night, the number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Michigan is 54. This continues to be very real, and it is so important we all do our part to distance ourselves to mitigate the spread. Staying home and staying calm is critical at this moment. The CDC now recommends that people avoid gatherings of more than 10 people for the next 15 days. We have to practice social distancing. It breaks all of our hearts to hear of events we all were looking forward to being cancelled or postponed, but it is necessary for public health. A tough decision, but a responsible decision. I’m available as I always am. With daily coronavirus updates and all levels of government activating new emergency response tools, it’s important we understand what it all means. This Friday at 5:30pm, I am hosting a telephone town hall to answer any questions you may have on steps being taken to keep you safe and financially secure. Sign up here. All restaurants in Michigan have been closed for “dine-in.” Take-out and delivery are still available. We must continue to practice social distancing. Yesterday, Michigan expanded who is eligible for unemployment insurance. If you or someone you know has lost their job because of coronavirus, please share this information with them. We must make sure our family, friends, and colleagues are helped during this unknown time. They can apply here or call 866-500-0017. Last Friday, the House passed the Families First Coronavirus Response Act. The Senate is back in session today after the weekend and they must consider this legislation immediately. The legislation will be critical for Michiganders and American families. It will guarantee paid sick leave for many workers who don’t already have it, free testing for coronavirus and increases in Medicaid, economic security to help hardworking men and women, and food security to help food banks, kids who rely on school meal programs, and low-income seniors through Meals on Wheels. The Families First Coronavirus Response Act begins to meet the needs of our communities by going directly to the hardworking men, women, and families deeply affected by the virus. Congress will continue to work hard to deliver what the American people need during the crisis. Want to remind everyone that my offices in Michigan and Washington, DC have begun to telework. We all are still available and will continue to serve the people of Michigan’s 12th Congressional District. To contact us, you can call the offices at 313-278-2936 in Dearborn or 202-225-4071 in DC and leave a message – we will get back to you. We are checking it hourly. You can also email us through our website or leave a message on any of my social media pages. Contact numbers for people looking for information are:
Suspensions, Cancellations, Information, and More. Food Banks and Kitchens in Michigan's 12th Congressional District Finally, we all must take responsibility to mitigate the spread. There are many steps you can take to prevent the spread of the virus. You should frequently wipe down hard surfaces and high contact areas (telephones, doorknobs, desks, railings, counters, computer mouse etc.) with a standard home disinfectant product and allow to air dry per manufacturer instructions. Hygiene Procedures Remember to wash your hands. Period. Frequent hand washing with soap for at least 20 seconds at a time should be done immediately after touching high contact areas, such as doorknobs, railings, phones, etc. It is also highly encouraged to clean your phone, computers and iPads. When soap is unavailable, have hand sanitizer to use as a substitute. Personal hygiene matters. You should wash hands/use hand sanitizers before and after visitations and meetings. Social Distancing Maintain a supply of medications, food and other essentials in your house. This matters. You should be aware of your stance and positioning at all times and avoid close direct, contact with other individuals, such as shaking hands, hugging, taking selfies, people talking to you, standing in line, etc. Avoid large meetings and events. Schools, universities, sports teams, etc. are all looking at this. Conduct meetings via teleconference. This protects the health of all participants. Reduce in- person gatherings and activities as well. Avoid traveling if not necessary and limit non-essential work travel. People who are older and have underlying conditions need to be particularly vigilant. Business should prepare and activate telework procedures. We need to remember this impacts many contract/independent workers who support many people. We must make sure we are not economically harming people during these times. If you care for a loved one living in a care facility, monitor the situation, ask about the health of the other residents frequently and know the protocol if there is an outbreak. Limit visits to only those who are absolutely necessary. Other things to think about You can stay in social contact without physical presence. Call your family, use FaceTime, have virtual office meetings. You can stay busy, catch up on home projects like cleaning your closets, watch movies, read that book you have been wanting to do. Don’t isolate yourself, just think different about staying in touch. Stay in touch with your family, colleagues, neighbors and seniors who need someone to care. Food banks in our area are able to help you if you need it. This is today’s thought. We will have regular communications to keep you updated and answer questions. Be safe, be calm and wash your hands. |
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