CDC Provides Update on Novel Coronavirus Response

Why it matters locally: Given Arkansas's population of over 3 million, updates on the Coronavirus response are relevant to the health and safety of state residents. Public health officials in Arkansas likely use CDC guidance to inform local prevention and response strategies.

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Atlanta — The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) conducted a telebriefing to update the public on its response to the novel coronavirus. The briefing featured Dr. Nancy Messonnier, Director of the CDC's National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases. Rear Admiral Denise Hinton, chief scientist from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), also participated in the call. The purpose of the briefing was to provide the latest information on the agency's efforts to understand and contain the virus. The officials shared updates related to the virus's spread, testing protocols, and preventative measures. No direct quotes are available, as the provided text is simply a transcription of the briefing introduction and not the substance of the update.