In the face of surging cases of COVID-19 in several states and the world’s second-highest death rate from infections, Congress must immediately exert political pressure on President Donald Trump and his administration to develop an effective, science-based national plan, coordinated with the states, for curtailing the pandemic.

Trump’s false claim that the coronavirus is “totally harmless” illustrates why we are so far behind most other countries in fighting the pandemic. Thus far more than 140,000 Americans have succumbed, many survivors are suffering long-term organ damage, and, increasingly, people in their 20s and 30s are requiring hospitalization. Must Americans tolerate this unthinkable cost to human life and tremendous economic fallout?

Rather than feel helpless, we should ask our elected representatives to intervene. If enough congressional Republicans will pressure the administration to develop a credible plan, particularly in testing and contact-tracing, there is a good chance that we can flatten the curve. According to experts, however, this needs to happen soon to avert disaster this fall.

Please tell our delegation that Congress must immediately promote development of a credible national plan and must oversee its rapid development and implementation.

You may also consider asking the organizations you are associated with to weigh in with the delegation, as well. Letters may be faxed to Murkowski’s local office at 907-586-7277.

Other contacts include:

— Lisa Murkowski (202) 224-6665 or www.murkowski.senate.gov/contact/email

— Dan Sullivan: (907) 271-5915 or www.sullivan.senate.gov/contact/email

— Don Young: (202) 225-5765 or www.donyoung.house.gov/contact

• Lillian Petershoare and Joan Gilbertson are long-time residents of Juneau. Columns, My Turns and Letters to the Editor represent the view of the author, not the view of the Juneau Empire. Have something to say? Here’s how to submit a My Turn or letter.