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Roby: Efforts continue in Alabama’s response to COVID-19

The state of Alabama late this week surpassed 1,000 confirmed cases of the Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19), and the United States exceeded 265,000 cases. The total number of COVID-19 cases globally on Friday officially passed 1 million.

It is evident that the virus is continuing to accelerate across our state and local communities. During these uncertain times, it is imperative that leaders on all levels make each decision with the well-being of all Americans at the forefront of those choices. It is equally as important that our citizens heed the advice of government officials. As our nation continues to work toward combatting this unprecedented pandemic, the health and safety of our people is a top priority now more than ever.

It is important that Alabamians are prepared to follow the advice and guidance of the officials who are working day and night in response to the COVID-19 outbreak. Governor Kay Ivey on Friday issued a statewide stay-at-home order effective Saturday, April 4, at 5:00 p.m. Central Time until Thursday, April 30, at 5:00 p.m. Central Time. Governor Ivey said Friday that she along with many state government and public health officials thoroughly reviewed all possible COVID-19 response options, and they determined that a statewide stay-at-home order put the safety of Alabama’s people first. I believe this public health order does just that, and will be beneficial as we continue to fight COVID-19 and practice mitigation among our communities. It is crucial that we take these public health orders seriously and stay at home except for essential errands such as going to the grocery store and seeking medical care.

As the governor’s statewide stay-at-home order goes into effect and currently lasts until the end of the month, we have the potential to drastically slow the spread of COVID-19 among our Alabama communities. Please remember to continue to follow the administration’s “30 Days to Slow the Spread” social distancing guidelines, wash your hands, disinfect your home, stay home if you are sick and avoid any social gatherings in order to protect yourself and those around you from infection.

As I have stated before, I feel it is my responsibility and remain committed to providing the people of Alabama’s Second Congressional District with the latest information and most helpful resources surrounding COVID-19. I have added a “COVID-19 Resources” tab on my official website that includes materials ranging from general health and prevention methods from the Center of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), to economic support for individuals and businesses from federal and state agencies like the Small Business Administration (SBA) and the Alabama Department of Labor (ADOL). I will also continue to keep my constituents up-to-date with the latest COVID-19 news on my Twitter and Facebook pages. It is vital to the health and well-being of those in our communities that Alabamians all across the state follow the guidance of state and healthcare officials. The people of our great state remain united, and together we will combat COVID-19.

Martha Roby represents Alabama’s Second Congressional District. She lives in Montgomery, Alabama, with her husband Riley and their two children.

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