Press Releases

In response to the three new confirmed cases of COVID-19 (coronavirus) in San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara counties, Rep. Salud Carbajal released the following statement:

“As we continue to learn more about the origin of these confirmed cases, it is important that our community remain proactive and calm,” said Rep. Carbajal. “The best thing we can do is listen to the experts and continue taking smart, preventive steps to stop the spread of disease: practice social distancing, stay home as much as you’re able, wash your hands often, call a doctor to alert them of your symptoms before visiting.

“At home and in Washington, I have been working diligently with local, state and federal officials as well as health experts to ensure our community has the resources—including free, available testing—to stay healthy and safe. I wish a quick recovery to the patients who tested positive, and I will continue to keep our community updated on the latest information.”

Earlier this month, Congress passed and the president signed into law a bipartisan bill to allocate $8.3 billion to stop the spread of COVID-19, support community health efforts and develop a vaccine to combat the disease. Just last week, the House passed a bill to provide free coronavirus testing for all who need it, including the uninsured; establish an emergency paid leave program; strengthen food assistance, school meals, senior nutrition and food banks; enhance unemployment aid; safeguard Medicaid; and stand up for those most vulnerable. The Senate is expected to consider that bill this week.

Carbajal has also been briefed by officials from the Center for Disease Control (CDC), the National Institute of Health (NIH), State Department, Department of Health and Human Services Department of Defense and other health experts about national efforts to prevent and treat COVID-19.

For the latest information on COVID-19 prevention and containment, view the CDC guidance.