Rep. Doug Collins, who self-quarantined himself after coming into contact with a coronavirus-infected person at the recent Conservative Political Action Conference, said Thursday that it is important that testing is easily available nationwide.
"I think right now testing is ramping up," the Georgia Republican said while calling in to Fox News' "America's Newsroom," adding that he has not experienced any symptoms of the disease.
"I trust the CDC," the lawmaker said while pointing out that it is important for Americans not to panic, but to take proper precautions.
He added that he self-quarantined out of an "abundance of caution," but Thursday will be his last day to remain home.
"I emphasize to everyone that if they follow the rules, they follow the protocols that are set out, that we can manage this virus and we can do what is right," Collins said. "I think by doing this, we are setting an example to others don't take it lightly, take it seriously, but also don't panic. Make sure you are doing the right things, washing your hands, staying away if you are sick. If you are sick, go to the doctor and get tested.
Several congressional offices are closing because of the virus, and Collins said he's been at work for the full week, even though he's been away from D.C. all week.
"You will see probably a lot of working from home, probably and we are discussing that right now in my own office," said Collins, pointing out that there have been a few coronavirus cases reported in Senate staffers.
"It is a very real concern," he said. "We want to stop it in its tracks. This is why the protocols are in place so we can identify those who are sick, isolate them, get them better so that others aren't infected."