The first rule of crisis communications is to communicate in a timely and accurate fashion even when there is not much to communicate. Also, designate one person in your organization to handle all crisis communications. (The President's briefings fail miserably because there is no "one" voice, one clear person in charge with clear, concise, and accurate information.)
You might say that there are so many unknowns about what will happen in the next few months that it is best just to lay low, keep under the radar. You could do that, but it is like the ostrich putting its head in the ground.
Now is the time to communicate even if you take the time to say there is no updated information to pass along. Use the time to reassure your clients and customers that you are there to assist them as needed, especially if your business is current closed down. Make a commitment to send at least one update regularly (weekly- every two weeks-whatever). Keep the content brief and to the point to insure that it gets looked at. Send it directly to your customer email list and post it on your website and social media.
One of the best communications I have seen during this crisis came from the Ogunquit Playhouse. Artistic Director, Brad Kinney, created a brief video of himself sitting comfortably behind his desk in quarantine where he looked into the camera and reassured patrons that the playhouse was considering all options during this difficult time. He also had to reveal the news that the start of the theater season could not begin on schedule.
The video was most successful because it was a very personal connection to the audiences that go to the playhouse. Seeing a live person was very reassuring and it no doubt built trust that the playhouse is taking the crisis seriously and that they are doing their best during these crazy times. We all know, as well, that video is far more powerful than the written word. Just look at what gets your attention while logging into Facebook.
The bottom line: During the pandemic, it is more important than ever to communicate with your colleagues, clients and customers or others in your business circles. You might just keep a good and loyal customer ready to do business once again in a post pandemic world of the "next normal."