The Securities and Exchange Commission is asking some of its Washington D.C. employees to work from home after one worker was treated for respiratory symptoms on Monday. It's the first federal agency to do this as the coronavirus spreads.
An SEC spokesperson said the worker was told by a physician in D.C. that they "may have the coronavirus" and was referred for testing.
The SEC reportedly told employees in an email: "Out of an abundance of caution, effective immediately the SEC is requiring all Headquarters personnel (employees and contractors) who work on the 9th floor to telework."
The spokesperson said even though employees will be working from home, the SEC will still be able to do its job regulating financial markets.
The decision came after the Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped by more than 2,000 points, its worst day since 2008.
As of Tuesday, there are more than 800 coronavirus cases in the U.S. and at least 28 people have died, according to Johns Hopkins University.
Six lawmakers on Capitol Hill have quarantined themselves after coming into contact with someone who has tested positive for the coronavirus.
Contains footage from CNN.
