Kentucky Senator Rand Paul has tested positive for the Wuhan coronavirus. The Republican is the first senator to test positive for the COVID-19 virus.
A spokesman for the senator, Sergio Gor, said the senator is not showing symptoms of the virus but was tested for the virus "out of an abundance of caution due to his extensive travel and events." According to the spokesman, Mr. Paul is feeling fine and is currently under quarantine.
"Ten days ago, our D.C. office began operating remotely, hence virtually no staff has had contact with Senator Rand Paul," Gor announced.
He expects to be back in the Senate after his quarantine period ends and will continue to work for the people of Kentucky at this difficult time. Ten days ago, our D.C. office began operating remotely, hence virtually no staff has had contact with Senator Rand Paul.
— Senator Rand Paul (@RandPaul) March 22, 2020
Two members of the House of Representatives have tested positive for the Wuhan coronavirus. Rep. Diaz Balart (R-FL) and Rep. Ben McAdams (D-UT) both announced last week that they had tested positive for COVID-19. Unlike Sen. Paul, both congressmen said they developed symptoms from the virus and were feeling very ill.
Senator Paul had part of his lungs removed after he was stabbed by a neighbor at his Kentucky home in Nov. 2017. The senator suffered six broken ribs in the assault.
Known individuals infected with COVID-19 have been in recent contact with various political leaders, including President Trump and Vice President Pence. The president, vice president and Karen Pence have all tested negative for the Wuhan coronavirus.