TUCSON, Ariz. -- The Washington State Department of Health confirmed a patient died at a hospital outside Seattle from the coronavirus.
Health officials from the state said President Donald Trump and the CDC initially misidentified the patient as a woman.
KGUN9 spoke to Senator Martha McSally about Arizona's coronavirus preparedness, following the news.
Senator McSally says first and foremost, there is no need to panic.
Though she says there is a need to be informed, and with that comes being prepared.
“The U.S is the best prepared of any country in the world,” said the Senator.
Senator Martha McSally says we have some of the best scientists working in some of the best facilities in the world.
“Starting next week, Arizona will have the ability to test in-state and that should be expanding pretty rapidly as time goes on,” she added.
Though she says that can only go so far. McSally stresses the importance of everyone doing their.
“Don’t panic, but be prepared. Use regular health etiquette. Wash your hands. Cough into your hands or your elbow. If you’re sick stay home,”added McSally.
She also talks about how crucial it is to know the facts.
“Everyone doesn’t need to wear a mask if you're healthy. Those are for healthcare providers or if someone is actually sick with the virus,” she told KGUN9.
So, should there be a coronavirus outbreak in our state, McSally says Arizona is prepared.
“I was on the phone this morning with the head of the Arizona Department Health Services. They have like a 500 page plan with how to address issues just like this,” said McSally.
The Senator adds people should not get impatient with travel restrictions. Instead she says they should cooperate with TSA and Border Patrol agents.
She also hopes there is an increase in screenings in the days to come.
“Let’s do additional questions that we ask. And let’s use it as a way to provide information and education as well. This is what the virus is. This is what the symptoms are. This is what you should do if you feel these symptoms,” she stated.
According to the CDC, the coronavirus is currently limited to some communities. It says the virus has not spread to a national level.
