U.S. Rep. Matt Cartwright (PA-08) today announced that he is self-quarantining at his home in northeastern Pennsylvania for the next 14 days after interacting with a family friend who tested positive for COVID-19.

“This morning, I received confirmation that a family friend I interacted with over the weekend has tested positive for COVID-19. Out of an abundance of caution, I began self-quarantining in my home on Sunday as soon as I found out they started showing symptoms consistent with this new virus,” said Rep. Cartwright. “I have not developed any symptoms myself since coming into contact with them, but I will remain at home for the next two weeks in order to ensure I do not pass it along to anyone else. The last thing I would want to do is spread this further to my family, friends, constituents, colleagues or staff.

Cartwright formerly represented Carbon County and now represents a portion of Monroe County.

“Serving northeastern Pennsylvania in Congress is an honor and a privilege, and I regret that I cannot be out on the front lines alongside the other leaders in this area who are working so hard to fight this outbreak. But I believe the best way I can lead right now is by example. That means heeding the advice of the medical experts, who say that self-quarantining if you believe you have been exposed is essential to slowing the spread of this virus.

“My office remains accessible via phone for constituents. I will continue to work from home and remain engaged remotely in Congressional efforts to fight this pandemic.”