U.S. Rep. William Timmons of Greenville said he supports an $8.3 billion coronavirus package agreed to by lawmakers Wednesday.

“In a situation like this, you can’t be overprepared,” said Timmons, who represents South Carolina’s 4th Congressional District in Spartanburg and Greenville counties.

Timmons said he has been closely monitoring the potential for a coarnavirus outbreak in the U.S.

“The House has held numerous briefings with agency officials from the CDC, FDA, HHS and others to keep member updated and answer any questions,” Timmons said. “The president and his administration have been working diligently to combat this serious issue.”

The bipartisan spending package is much larger than the $2.5 billion originally requested by President Trump.

It includes $3 billion for developing treatments, $2.2 billion for prevention and $1 billion to go overseas.

“This is not the time to play politics,” Timmons said. “Our public health is at risk, and we need to make sure that the funding needed is provided.”

Meanwhile, Timmons said constituents should practice good hygiene, but not overreact to the threat of the virus.

“I shake hundreds of hands a day,” Timmons said. “Be vigilant -- wash your hands often, and in public places don’t expose yourself unnecessarily.

“Normal flu kills tens of thousands of people every year. Let’s not get hysterical about it. There are still variables we don’t understand. In the interim, be vigilant and take precautions.”