Texas Insider Report: WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Congressman Brian Babin (TX-36) released the following statement on the global threat of the coronavirus (COVID-19):
“Although coronavirus (COVID-19) has dominated the news this week, there is no need to panic,” said Babin.
“On January 29, I sent a letter to HHS Secretary Alex Azar urging him to take every precaution necessary to ensure the protection of American citizens, and I can say with absolute certainty that this is being done. President Trump, Vice President Pence, and the Administration continue to make sure Americans remain safe from this global health threat. President Trump’s request for $2.5 billion is a respectable start, and like him, I believe that we must spend whatever amount needed to combat this epidemic and keep our country safe. In the coming days, I will be working with my colleagues in Congress to figure out an appropriate amount of funds. Viruses are not contained by borders, so we must act quickly. There’s no time for political games.
“As of now, COVID-19 has spread to multiple countries, including the U.S., and has killed close to 3,000 people worldwide, mostly in China where the disease originated. I advise you to take the proper precautions as you would during flu season and not travel to any country impacted by COVID-19. The likelihood of catching COVID-19 is low at this time, but a CDC official has stated that it will be a matter of ‘when,’ and not ‘if’ coronavirus spreads in our communities. Again, I encourage all to exercise caution and treat this situation seriously, but please do not panic.
“Remember, the best and most qualified people are on the front lines to guarantee we all remain safe and healthy. If I find anything has changed in this regard, I will alert you immediately.”
“On January 29, I sent a letter to HHS Secretary Alex Azar urging him to take every precaution necessary to ensure the protection of American citizens, and I can say with absolute certainty that this is being done. President Trump, Vice President Pence, and the Administration continue to make sure Americans remain safe from this global health threat. President Trump’s request for $2.5 billion is a respectable start, and like him, I believe that we must spend whatever amount needed to combat this epidemic and keep our country safe. In the coming days, I will be working with my colleagues in Congress to figure out an appropriate amount of funds. Viruses are not contained by borders, so we must act quickly. There’s no time for political games.
“As of now, COVID-19 has spread to multiple countries, including the U.S., and has killed close to 3,000 people worldwide, mostly in China where the disease originated. I advise you to take the proper precautions as you would during flu season and not travel to any country impacted by COVID-19. The likelihood of catching COVID-19 is low at this time, but a CDC official has stated that it will be a matter of ‘when,’ and not ‘if’ coronavirus spreads in our communities. Again, I encourage all to exercise caution and treat this situation seriously, but please do not panic.
“Remember, the best and most qualified people are on the front lines to guarantee we all remain safe and healthy. If I find anything has changed in this regard, I will alert you immediately.”
