COVID-19 Update: Your Questions Answered

As we continue to combat the coronavirus (COVID-19) in our communities, I want to make sure you remain up to date and aware of new developments. I had the opportunity to speak with thousands of you in a live Telephone Town Hall on Thursday discussing the latest on Congress' response to COVID-19 and what we can all do to keep our families protected. I was also grateful to have Dr. Paul Schmidt of Glen Rose on the line with us to help answer some of your medically related questions during these unique circumstances.

You can listen to the Tele-Town Hall here.

There is no getting past the fact that we are living in uncertain times, but we will get through it together. This is a serious situation where we need to follow guidance from Centers for Disease Control (CDC) officials and health officials. While we will get through this, COVID-19 spreads quickly and easily throughout communities, which means we need to follow directions to help keep our families safe.

Take a look at some Frequently Asked Questions below:

What can I do to protect my family?

The CDC strongly recommends staying home unless absolutely necessary, washing your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, avoiding touching your face with unwashed hands, covering your cough or sneeze, and using disinfectant on frequently used surfaces and items.

Who is most at risk for contracting the virus?

Those most at risk are senior citizens and people with underlying conditions, such as heart disease, lung disease, diabetes, high blood pressure or cancer. It is vitally important that we follow the directions of the CDC and doctors to help prevent spreading the virus to those around us.

How does COVID-19 spread?

While the first transmission has been linked to animals, the virus spreads easily from person-to-person within six feet of each other or respiratory droplets in the air when someone coughs or sneezes. That's why the CDC recommends practicing social distancing and certain counties have implemented restrictions on mass gatherings.

What is the latest on testing?

Currently, over 6,500 people have been tested in Texas, and Governor Abbott expects that soon we will be able to test 10,000 people weekly in hospitals, public health authorities and private operators. Drive-thru testing facilities are now open in San Antonio, Houston and Austin, with additional facilities expected to become available in the coming weeks. In Congress, the bill that we passed and was signed by President Trump provides free testing for those who are on Medicare and Medicaid, private insurance, veterans who use the VA, Tricare or Medicare Advantage plans, or are uninsured. I urge you to call your primary care provider immediately if you are experiencing symptoms.

If you need any additional resources or have any questions, please call my Cleburne office at 817-774-2575 or my Austin office at 512-473-8910, or visit williams.house.gov/coronavirus.

In God we trust,

Roger Williams

Member of Congress