Idris Elba first revealed his coronavirus diagnosis via a simple yet informative message, captioning a Twitter video of himself, “This morning I tested positive for Covid 19. 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. I will keep you updated on how I’m doing. No panic.” As for the video, Elba took the opportunity to share more details about how he possibly contracted the illness, his advice for the public, and his hope for the world going forward. “I got tested because I realized I was exposed to someone who also tested positive,” he started out. “I found out last Friday that they tested positive, I quarantined myself immediately and got a test immediately and got the results back today. It’s serious.” He then cautioned the public to start thinking about “social distancing” and hand washing, adding, “There are people out there who aren’t showing symptoms who could easily spread it.”
In addition to employing best practices for hygiene, Elba recommended, “We told our families, they’re very supportive. We’ve told our colleagues. Transparency is the best thing. If you’re feeling ill or feel like you’re been exposed, do something about it.” This piece of advice echoes Dr. Mehmet Oz’s recommendations to stay vigilant amid the outbreak.
“Now’s the time for solidarity,” the actor concluded. ” … This is real.”
Written by: Nicki