Idris Elba
(CHRIS DELMAS/AFP via Getty Images)
(CHRIS DELMAS/AFP via Getty Images)
Idris Elba is the latest high-profile celebrity to test positive for the virus.
Idris Elba has tested positive for coronavirus, he joins Tom Hanks as the latest high-profile individual to publicly share their positive test results.
In a recent tweet, the actor wrote, “This morning I tested positive for Covid 19." The tweet also read, "I feel ok, I have no symptoms so far but have been isolated since I found out about my possible exposure to the virus. Stay home people and be pragmatic."
In the video which accompanied Elba’s tweet also shared a lengthy message:
"Listen, I’m doing okay. Sabrina [my wife] is doing okay, she hasn’t been tested. I didn’t have any symptoms, I got tested because I realized I was exposed to someone who had also tested positive. I found out last Friday that they were tested positive, I quarantined myself, thank God, got a test immediately and got the results back today."
He also added:
"This is serious you know. Now is the time to really think about social distancing [and] washing your hands. Beyond that, there are people out there who aren’t showing symptoms and can easily spread it. So, now is a real time to be vigilant about washing your hands and keeping your distance. Transparency is probably the best thing for this right now."
Before concluding the video Elba shared that for those who are feeling sick they should do something about it. "This is real, I just wanted to share my news with you guys and I will keep you updated with how I’m doing."
Take a look at his Idris Elba’s video below.
Elba has also spoken out against the conspiracy theory that Black people can't get coronavirus. On March 17, the actor went live on Twitter and addressed the myth.
"Something that's sort of scaring me when I read the comments and see some of the reactions is: My people — black people, black people — please, please understand that coronavirus ... you can get it, all right?" he said in the first of two live videos he did on Tuesday. "There are so many stupid, ridiculous conspiracy theories about black people not being able to get it. That's dumb, stupid."
"That is the quickest way to get more black people killed. And I’m talking about the whole world. Wherever we are, please understand that you can get it. ... Just know you have to be as vigilant as every other race. This disease does not discriminate. ... As a black person who has contracted the virus, it needs to be said."
This story was originally published on March 16, 2019, it was updated on March 18.
