US Congressman presides over House in face mask

California Congressman Brad Sherman presided over the House floor on Tuesday wearing a homemade face mask following udpated guidance from the CDC recommending people cover their faces in public to curb the spread of coronavirus.

Rep. Sherman says that his 11-year-old daughter made his mask for him out of an old t-shirt.

Sherman also announced a decision by Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi, which allows bills and other floor submissions to be introduced electronically. The new policy will be in place through at least April 19th and may be extended in order to decrease the amount of people present during Pro Forma sessions while the House is in recess.

President Donald Trump's administration is encouraging many Americans to wear face masks in public. Trump stressed that the recommendation is optional and is conceding he will not be complying with it.

For most people, the coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as a fever and cough that clear up in two to three weeks. For some, especially older adults and people, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia, and can be fatal.