Not everyone agrees on what nickname to give COVID-19 - coronavirus, Wuhan virus, WuFlu, etc. - but everyone does seem to agree that testing is the most important factor in this outbreak.
The House emergency relief package that Democrats and the White House finally compromised on on Friday will provide paid sick leave and expanded unemployment insurance. But, most importantly, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi explained on Friday, the measure will provide free coronavirus tests for anyone who feels they need one.
States have been getting creative coming up with ways to provide tests quickly and efficiently as the number of potential COVID-19 cases begin to get overwhelming. In New York, they introduced drive-through tests, in which individuals can be swabbed without having to leave their cars. New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo introduced the state's first drive-thru station in New Rochelle, a hotspot for the virus. In his remarks, Cuomo praised the Trump administration for moving quickly on testing.
Gov. Andrew Cuomo on New York's drive-through coronavirus mobile testing center:
— Francis Brennan (Text TRUMP to 88022) (@FrancisBrennan) March 13, 2020
"I want to thank the Vice President and especially the President who facilitated this and moved quickly." pic.twitter.com/jEeCsA6WeF
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott introduced his state's first drive-thru testing facility as well, in San Antonio.
BREAKING: Texas Governor Greg Abbott says right now a drive through testing facility for COVID-19 is opening in San Antonio. They are looking to open similar facilities in other parts of Texas. @KVUE pic.twitter.com/z9PMFhMrPo
— Hannah Rucker KVUE (@suphannahrucker) March 13, 2020
President Trump declared a state of emergency from the Rose Garden on Friday, which will open up a whole new host of resources for doctors and hospitals to respond to the virus and to care for patients.
The president said he had just had "a very good conversation" with Gov. Cuomo.