Federal, state, and local responded varied
The State Department issued a global travel warning Wednesday night, urging American citizens to “reconsider travel abroad” in light of the coronavirus pandemic. The State Department bulletin said, “Many areas throughout the world are now experiencing COVID-19 outbreaks and taking action that may limit traveler mobility, including quarantines and border restrictions. Even countries, jurisdictions, or areas where cases have not been reported may restrict travel without notice.”
In a memo issued after President Trump’s announcement of a 30-day ban on travel to the U.S. from Europe, the Pentagon placed additional travel restrictions on all military service members, DoD civilians, and their families.
Federal agencies have prepared for coronavirus disruptions, as air traffic controllers, food inspectors, mail carriers, and others ready their emergency plans to maintain essential services even as the virus spreads. Most have canceled non-essential travel. All are planning for widespread absences and making provisions for remote workforces.
The governors of New York, California, Utah, Washington state, Ohio, and others have issued restrictions on gatherings of certain numbers of people. Schools and universities across the country are closing in an effort to prevent further spread of the COVID-19 virus. In some states, hospitals have suspended patient visits in adult patient areas, women giving birth are being allowed only one birthing partner, and emergency room patients are limited to one accompanying adult.
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For the efforts of governing officials to successfully reduce the potential for greater coronavirus outbreaks across the U.S.
- For the virus to have minimal long-term impact on the nation.
- For clear and calming communications from those in authority.
Sources: CNN, NBC News
