Political Quotes

“I come to the floor today to talk about the threat that the Zika virus poses--a threat to the health of Americans and to people around the world. Every day we learn more about this virus. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has confirmed a link between Zika and microcephaly. That is a condition where babies are born with smaller heads and with brain defects. It is a devastating problem that we are all facing. Studies have linked Zika to something called Guillain-Barre syndrome--a condition I studied in medical school and have seen patients with. It can lead to paralysis, which is another very serious condition. Last week the Centers for Disease Control also confirmed the first Zika-related death in Puerto Rico. Because this virus is mostly spread by mosquitoes, the potential risk is only going to become more urgent as the weather turns warmer. So we must do what we can now--today--before this turns into a true epidemic rather than the threat it is today. America's drug companies and researchers need to continue working on treatments, tests, and vaccines. Our cities and towns need to start taking aggressive measures to control mosquitoes. Doctors can help to educate people who are at risk of contracting the disease--this virus--but we really do need all hands on deck. Washington has an important part to play, and Republicans in the Senate are ready to address this issue.…”