State Sen. Escamilla tests positive for COVID-19

SALT LAKE CITY, Utah — State Sen. Luz Escamilla confirmed she tested positive for COVID-19 after experiencing symptoms and testing for the virus Friday evening.

Escamilla is the third Utah government representative to test positive for the virus, after Rep. Ben McAdams and City Councilman Darin Mano.

“Although I am pretty sick right now, I am continuing to work to ensure that Utah’s most vulnerable communities are not overlooked during this crisis,” Escamilla said in a statement. “This is a challenging time and there is a lot of uncertainty, but we will get through this. In the meantime, please take this seriously.”

Escamilla said during this time, the state should continue working to protect the “thousands of Utahns out of work.” This includes removing the threats of evictions and fees in the case people cannot afford rent.

In her statement, Escamilla calls on the state to also identify and address the needs of those still working in essential businesses, requiring them to continue working rather than going remote. This includes food service workers, grocery workers, childcare providers and others.

“They, along with our medical professionals, custodial workers and others are keeping our world moving during this difficult time,” she said. “We owe them all a debt of gratitude.”

Escamilla also said it’s important to ensure tribal communities, communities with limited English proficiency and people experiencing homelessness have the resources they need to remain healthy and safe.

She also calls on all Utahns to continue practicing social distancing measures.

“Even if you are young and healthy, please practice social distancing,” Escamilla said. “If you can stay home, please do. Wash your hands thoroughly, and avoid your eyes, nose and mouth.”

 

How To Prevent the Spread of COVID-19 Coronavirus 

COVID-19 coronavirus is transmitted from person to person. It is a virus that is similar to the common cold and the flu. So, to prevent it from spreading: 

• Wash hands frequently and thoroughly, with soap and water, for at least 20 seconds.  
• Don’t touch your face. 
• Keep children and those with compromised immune systems away from someone who is coughing or sneezing (in this instance, at least six feet)
• If there is an outbreak near you, practice social distancing (stay at home, instead of going to the movies, sports events, or other activities.)
• Get a flu shot. 

Resources for more information: 

LOCAL: 

State of Utah:  https://coronavirus.utah.gov/ 

Utah State Board of Education 

Utah Hospital Association 

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 

Utah Coronavirus Information Line – 1-800-456-7707 

NATIONAL:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 

Commonly asked questions, World Health Organization 

Cases in the United States