US congressman says he tested positive for coronavirus

By Servet Gunerigok

WASHINGTON (AA) - U.S. Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart announced Wednesday that he has tested positive for the novel coronavirus, becoming the first U.S. lawmaker to contract COVID-19.

In a statement on Twitter, the Florida Republican said he experienced symptoms including a fever and headache Saturday.

"I want everyone to know that I am feeling much better,” he said.

The statement came days after several other lawmakers, including Sen. Lindsey Graham, have self-quarantined after contact with someone who tested positive.

Diaz-Balart urged the public to take the virus "extremely seriously."

According to Johns Hopkins University, COVID-19 has infected over 214,000 people worldwide, including more than 7,700 in the United States, and killed around 8,700, including at least 118 in the U.S.