Canadian PM Justin Trudeau's wife, Sophie, tests positive for coronavirus
What's the story
Sophie Gregoire-Trudeau, the wife of Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, has tested positive for the novel coronavirus, his office revealed on Thursday. The statement said she will remain in isolation following medical advice. "She is feeling well, is taking all the recommended precautions and her symptoms remain mild," the statement added. As a precautionary measure, Trudeau will remain in isolation for 14 days.
What happened
Sophie contracted the virus in Britain, hinted reports
Before this development, the Trudeaus had said earlier on Thursday that they will be self-isolating as Sophie showed symptoms of the COVID-19 disease after she returned from an event in Britain. She had "a low fever" and got herself tested immediately, only to learn that she has contracted the virus which has taken the lives of over 4,000 worldwide.
Details
Meanwhile, Trudeau won't be tested as he showed no symptoms
To note, Trudeau hasn't shown any symptoms and is in good health. As suggested by doctors, he will not undergo any tests, his office added. "For the same reason, doctors say there is no risk to those who have been in contact with him recently. The Prime Minister will continue to fully assume his duties and will address Canadians tomorrow," the statement read.
Measures
Trudeau is in touch with high-ranked officials
In what indicates that Trudeau is concerned about the coronavirus cases, his office revealed that he spoke to leaders of Italy, the US, and the UK, as well as participated in a meeting convened to discuss COVID-19. He will also speak to National Indigenous Organizations and provincial and territorial premiers to take stock of the situation while taking steps to protect Canadians.
Quote
Trudeau and his wife are grateful to Canada's health professionals
"Canada has a well-equipped public health system to deal with the spread of COIVD-19. The Prime Minister and Mrs. Gregorie Trudeau thank all of Canada's health professionals and Public Health Agency of Canada who are doing incredible job in protecting all Canadians," his office said.
Message
Separately, Sophie asked Canadians to be careful
In another statement, Sophie expressed gratitude towards her well-wishers who reached out to her inquiring about her well-being. While she is experiencing "uncomfortable symptoms" of the virus, Sophie exuded confidence that she will be on her feet soon. She underlined that some Canadians are dealing with worse situations. "We will get through this situation together. Please take your health seriously," she said.
Looking back
Tom Hanks and his wife have also been infected
Before Sophie's news surfaced, another celebrity revealed that he had contracted the virus. Tom Hanks and wife Rita Wilson, tested positive for the virus in Australia, where the Hollywood actor was scheduled to work on a movie. "We Hanks' will be tested, observed, and isolated for as long as public health and safety require," Hanks said in a statement shared earlier this week.
Details
The virus originated in China last year
Coronavirus, which has single-stranded RNA and needs to hijack other living cells to multiply, originated in China's Wuhan province in December 2019. The outbreak reportedly happened at the Seafood Wholesale Market, and quickly spread to the rest of the country, and eventually 114 countries. It has infected more than a lakh globally. No vaccine or cure of the COVID-19 disease is available.