US Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX) has self-quarantined himself in his Texas home after coming in contact with a coronavirus patient before they were diagnosed at the 2020 CPAC conference.

Sen. Cruz released a statement Sunday evening about the precaution that reads in-part:

“Last night, I was informed that 10 days ago at CPAC I briefly interacted with an individual who is currently symptomatic and has tested positive for COV-19. The interaction consisted of a brief conversation and a handshake…

I have consulted with medical authorities… I’m not experiencing any symptoms, and I feel fine and healthy… medical authorities have advised me that the odds of transmission from the other individual to me were extremely low.

…out of an abundance of caution, and because of how frequently I interact with my constituents as a part of my job and to give everyone the peace of mind, I have decided to remain in my home in Texas this week, until a full 14 days have passed since the CPAC interaction.”

It is yet to be determined if anyone other than the individual was infected with coronavirus but authorities maintain that testing is not necessary unless symptoms arise.

The startling news comes as a sort of national panic has ensued with many US stores being sold-out of hand sanitizer, clorox wipes, water, and toilet paper.

While the response is disproportionate to the threat that coronavirus currently poses to Americans, a great side effect is occurring in that the paranoia surrounding COVID-19 is causing people to be more mindful of hygiene and sanitation amid a much larger epidemic- the flu.

The 2019-2020 flu season has been the second worst of the decade in the heartbreaking category of pediatric deaths. During this season, the US has seen more than 136 children die from influenza.

During that same time, an estimated 34 million Americans have fallen ill with the flu as more than 15,000 flu-related deaths have been reported. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) currently classifies 48 of the 50 states as having “widespread” flu illness.

The best way to avoid contracting either the coronavirus or the flu is to avoid large gatherings and touching your face and routinely washing your hands with soap for at least twenty seconds.