Cleaver: First coronavirus case confirmed in Jackson County, make sure to get accurate information

(From Fifth District Congressman Emanuel Cleaver)

My staff and I have received a number of inquiries regarding the coronavirus over the last week, and I want you to know I am closely monitoring the situation as it evolves across the nation.

I want to inform you that we have just received confirmation of the first case of coronavirus in Jackson County, and it is exceedingly likely we will see the number of confirmed cases rise as Missouri ramps up its testing capabilities. 

To protect our communities and to limit the spread of coronavirus, I want to update you with the latest information and share some steps you can take to keep you and your family healthy.

There is currently a lot of false and misleading information being spread about coronavirus, also known as COVID-19, so please take some time to visit the CDC, Missouri Department of Health, and Kansas City Health Department websites for the latest and most accurate information. You can also call Missouri’s 24-hour hotline dedicated to answering any questions you may have about the virus at 877-435-8411. Lastly, I’ve compiled some local resources and frequently asked questions on my website.

The Center for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) has called on Americans to take the following steps to prevent the spread of coronavirus:

-For the next 15 days, organizers, groups or individuals should cancel or postpone in-person events that consist of 10 people or more throughout the United States.

-If you are a person with a weakened immune system or serious underlying health condition (such as heart disease, diabetes, lung disease, etc.), stay home and away from other people People who do not show symptoms can still spread the virus.

-Take everyday precautions to keep space between yourself and others.

-Avoid crowds as much as possible

-Avoid close contact w/people who are sick

-Avoid touching your eyes, nose, & mouth

-Stay home as much as possible to further reduce your risk of being exposed.

-Cover your cough or sneeze w/ a tissue, then throw tissue in the trash

-Use a regular household cleaning spray/wipe to clean & disinfect frequently touched objects & surfaces

-Wash your hands often with soap & water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom, before eating, and after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing

If you are sick or think you may have been exposed to coronavirus, please self-quarantine and call your healthcare provider for medical advice. Here are some other steps the CDC recommends should you show symptoms of coronavirus:

-Separate yourself from other people and animals in your home

-Call ahead before visiting your doctor

-Wear a facemask, if possible
Cover your coughs and sneezes
Wash your hands often
Avoid sharing personal household items

Clean all “high-touch” surfaces everyday

As of this writing, my offices in Kansas City, Independence, Higginsville and Washington, D.C. remain available to assist constituents in need of help from a federal agency via phone or email. Should anything change, I will be sure to notify you via social media, email, and through my website.

I believe it is incredibly important for the American people to receive accurate and honest information about coronavirus. 

For that reason I will continue to update you as the situation continues to unfold. Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to my office for assistance.