Rep. Wild Responds to COVID-19 Outbreak, Monitors Spread in PA

WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Representative Susan Wild (PA-07) responded to the newly reported case of Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) in Monroe County and in several counties across the state. To date, there are 11 reported cases in Pennsylvania.

“I am closely monitoring the spread of the coronavirus and am committed to doing everything in my power to ensure that we bring a science-based, fully-funded, government-wide response,” Wild said. “As the situation progresses in our state and our district, I will continue to provide updates and information to help keep yourself, your family, and your neighbors safe. The health and safety of everyone in our community will remain my top priority.”

Yesterday, Wild and 20 other members of Congress introduced H.R.6139, a bill that would require the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to issue an Emergency Temporary Standard to protect health care workers from COVID-19.

Early last week prior to any confirmed cases in the state, Wild spoke with the Pennsylvania Secretary of Health, Dr. Rachel Levine, about Pennsylvania’s response readiness to the coronavirus. On this call, Wild was informed that tests for the virus are conducted daily, health alerts have gone out to medical providers, and contact tracing and quarantine infrastructure is in place. Wild was later briefed on the status of the outbreak in the United States and response plans by Vice President Pence, NIH Director of the National Institute of Allergies and Infections Disease Dr. Anthony Fauci, FDA Commissioner Dr. Stephen Hahn, and White House Coronavirus Response Coordinator Ambassador Deborah Birx.

Last Thursday, Wild voted to pass an overwhelmingly bipartisan $8.3 billion emergency spending package to combat this public health emergency. The funding package was signed by the president the next day and includes support for state and local health agencies, vaccine and treatment development, and loans for affected small businesses to lessen the economic blow of this public health emergency.

As the situation progresses and information becomes available, Wild will remain in close contact with state and local officials. For important updates, please visit Wild’s Coronavirus Resource Page and the PA Department of Health Resources Page.

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