U.S. Rep. Rodney Davis has announced he has tested positive for the coronavirus.
The Taylorville Republican said in a post on social media he was running a high temperature on Wednesday morning, so he and his wife both got tested for COVID-19, along with the rest of his staff that he’s worked with in person this week. He said while his test came back positive, all other tests were negative.
“Other than a higher-than-normal temperature, I am showing no symptoms at this time and feel fine,” Davis said.
Davis said he only caught the red flag because he has been vigilant about taking his temperature every day.
“The CDC guidelines and healthcare guidelines would have allowed me to walk into any medical facility, any government building with a 99-degree temperature," he said. "But I knew on the thermometer I use that that was different than what I’m used to.”
Davis said his office is contacting constituents he has met with in-person within the previous 48 hours, after consulting with the Office of the Attending Physician of Congress and local county health officials.
Davis said the House Attending Physician told him he was likely exposed Monday or Wednesday. His team had just resumed hosting "open office hours" and held three sessions on those days. Davis said everyone wore masks and stayed at least six feet apart, regardless of face coverings.
"We did everything we could to follow the proper protocols and, frankly, I don't know where I would've picked it up," he said.
Davis held a virtual office hours in Rochester on Wednesday.
Davis added he will postpone public events until he receives a negative test and will continue to serve constituents from home while he quarantines. He said his district offices will remain open.
According to www.govtrack.us, Davis is the 11th member of Congress to test positive for the coronavirus. The website said 62 members of Congress have tested positive for the virus, have come in contact with someone who has the virus or have been quarantined.
We’re living in unprecedented times when information changes by the minute. WGLT will continue to be here for you, keeping you up-to-date with the live, local and trusted news you need. Help ensure WGLT can continue with its in-depth and comprehensive COVID-19 coverage as the situation evolves by making a contribution.
