Prime Minister Scott Morrison has tested positive for Covid-19 after experiencing “flu-like symptoms”.
Despite his diagnosis with the virus, he will continue with his responsibilities as Prime Minister while isolating at home in Sydney.
In a statement announcing his positive result on Tuesday night, he said, “I am experiencing flu-like symptoms and will be recovering over the next week.”
“I had tested myself daily since Sunday, including this morning, with all tests returning a negative result.”
“I took a further test this evening after developing a fever late today. The test was inconclusive so I took a PCR test tonight which returned a positive result late this evening.”
ScoMo said he will isolate for seven days as required and “continue to follow health guidelines.”
His wife Jenny and children have tested negative for the virus, but will isolate for seven days as close contacts.
“While in isolation I will continue to discharge all my responsibilities as prime minister … focusing on our emergency response to the devastating floods in Queensland and New South Wales, and ensuring we stand with each and every one of the affected communities both now and as the waters eventually recede,” he said.
He added he would be “focused on our urgent response to the tragedy unfolding in the Ukraine and Russia’s senseless aggression, staying in regular contact with our security and intelligence officials and our international partners, as well as working with the Treasurer to finalise the budget”.
Following news of his positive test result, the Prime Minister told journalists that he would not be attending a planned event in Sydney to light up the Opera House with Ukraine’s colours.
Image credits: Getty Images
This article first appeared on OverSixty.