Former First Lady Michelle Obama recorded robocalls and radio ads, where she calls on D.C. residents to stay at home unless it is necessary to go out and tells them who to contact for free testing if they have the symptoms of the new coronavirus.
“Hi, this is Michelle Obama,” the message starts. “On behalf of Mayor Bowser, I wanted to share information on free coronavirus testing for District of Columbia residents experiencing symptoms. If you or a member of your household is experiencing fever, cough, sore throat, difficulty breathing, congestion, body aches, chills, runny nose, please contact your medical provider immediately.”
In the voice recording, Obama explains that in order to schedule a free testing appointment, one should either get in touch with their medical provider or call the D.C. hotline: 1-855-363-0333 (in English) / 1-844-796-2797 (in English and Spanish).
DC residents — If you have any #coronavirus symptom, you can get a free test by calling 1-855-363-0333@MichelleObama is helping us get out the word about free testing and reminding residents to #StayHomeDC except for essential trips for food, medicine or exercise pic.twitter.com/fRZ7aeZJf8
— Muriel Bowser (@MurielBowser) April 27, 2020
She also urges the public to stay home “except if you need essential healthcare, essential food or supplies or to go to your essential job.”
D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser tweeted a message, thanking the former first lady for her help in informing the public on free coronavirus testing options.