VIRGINIA GOV. RALPH Northam and his wife tested positive for the coronavirus on Thursday, his office said.
The governor and Virginia’s first lady Pamela Northam took a COVID-19 test on Thursday after they were informed Wednesday evening that a member of the governor’s official residence staff, who works closely in their living quarters, developed symptoms and subsequently tested positive for the virus.
Northam’s office said in a statement that he is not experiencing any symptoms and his wife is experiencing mild symptoms, but “both remain in good spirits.”
Consistent with Virginia Department of Health guidelines, the couple will isolate for 10 days. Northam is “in constant contact with his cabinet and staff and will fulfill his duties from the executive mansion.”
“The work of the governor’s office continues remotely and uninterrupted,” the statement continued.
The couple is also working with the health department to trace their close contacts. The executive mansion and a nearby office building will be closed on Friday for deep cleaning.
“As I’ve been reminding Virginians throughout this crisis, COVID-19 is very real and very contagious,” the governor said in a statement. “The safety and health of our staff and close contacts is of utmost importance to Pam and me, and we are working closely with the Department of Health to ensure that everyone is well taken care of. We are grateful for your thoughts and support, but the best thing you can do for us – and most importantly, for your fellow Virginians – is to take this seriously.”
