There has been much concern in the world at large over the course of the last few months, as a near-pandemic outbreak of coronavirus strain COVID-19 ravages the Far East and parts of Europe.
The flu-like virus has been able to largely elude quarantine on account of its fourteen-day incubation period, and appears to be far more worrisome for individuals with compromised immune systems such as the elderly or already-ill.
And while there has been some confusion as to just how worried the world should be, the one thing that seems to be a no-brainer in the fight to contain the virus is that an abundance of caution should be taken by those at risk.
That’s why one GOP Congressman in the United States is closing his office for the time being.
Rep. Paul Gosar (R-AZ) will self-quarantine for the next few days and shut down his Washington, DC, office because he interacted with a Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) attendee who has since tested positive for coronavirus.
“I have been informed that during the CPAC conference members of my staff and I came into contact with an individual who has since tested positive for, and is hospitalized for, COVID-19,” Gosar said in a statement released Sunday evening. “I was with the individual for an extended period of time, and we shook hands several times,” he revealed.Gosar said neither he nor his staff are exhibiting any symptoms of the illness, which has caused thousands of deaths worldwide after its mysterious outbreak in China’s Wuhan region. “However, in order to prevent any potential transmission, I will remain at my home in Arizona until the conclusion of the 14 day period following my interaction with this individual,” he announced.
“Additionally, out of an abundance of caution, I am closing my office in Washington, D.C. for the week,” and his staff will telecommute in the meantime. He further stated on social media that three senior staff members will also self-quarantine.
The CDC has issued a number of statements regarding the virus, including some corrective information regarding preventative measures against the spread of COVID-19. As with any virus, the organization would like to remind Americans that thorough and proper hand washing techniques are the most powerful way to prevent its spread.
