All travel suspended from the UK and Ireland to the US

Prior to today’s press briefing, journalists had their temperatures taken. One reporter was denied entry due to a temperature over normal levels. President Trump noted that he had tested for coronavirus, but the results aren't in. He noted that there was “an abundance of caution” in making sure that no one who may have symptoms is in contact with the executive officers.

Stepping into the White House press room, Trump said that they’d had a meeting of the coronavirus task force, emphasizing that the good work the states are doing. He praised the press for their “fair” coverage since the press conference yesterday, as well as the American people, our sports leagues, and private sector companies.

Answering questions, Trump said that it makes sense for shops and restaurants to close temporarily, and for people to be responsible. “This has been urgent for me right from the beginning,” he said.

When asked why he shook hands with corporate leaders at the press briefing yesterday, he said that it is a habit, it’s a “natural reflex, and we’re all getting out of it.” He noted that when “someone puts their hands out and you take it, you shake it.”

“Maybe people shouldn’t be shaking hands for the long term, because it transmits flu and other things,” he said. And encouraged people not to travel if they don’t need to. Trump said that domestic travel restrictions are under consideration, and that the Federal government is working with the states to coordinate that.

Trump turned the mic over to Pence, who has been leading the efforts at coronavirus prevention and containment. As he walked out of the room, reporters called out “was your temperature normal, Mr. President?”

Pence reiterated the plans for the work that was announced in progress yesterday, and the collaboration between the government and the private sector. He announced the closure of the cruise line industry, and that when the cruise lines come back up, they will be safer than before.

The press briefing came after the first death from coronavirus was reported in New York City, a woman in her 80’s who succumbed to the illness at a local hospital.