NEW ORLEANS — U.S. Rep. Steve Scalise has committed himself to a self-quarantine, a release from the representative's office said.
Also the Republican Whip, Scalise represents Louisiana's First Congressional District, which includes a large portion of South East Louisiana.
The statement said Scalise had a long meeting with U.S. Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart, who tested positive for COVID-19. Florida Rep. Diaz-Balart was the first member of congress to test positive for COVID-19.
According to a statement from Diaz-Balart's office, he had symptoms of the respiratory disease brought on by the coronavirus. On Saturday, he said he developed a fever and a headache.
Rep. Scalise said he wasn't symptomatic, and he'll continue to work remotely. His statement is below.
“I have just been informed that my colleague, Mario Diaz-Balart, tested positive for COVID-19. Since I had an extended meeting with him late last week, out of an abundance of caution, I have decided it would be best to self-quarantine based on the guidance of the Attending Physician of the United States Congress.
“Fortunately, I am not experiencing any symptoms, and will continue working remotely on Congress’ Coronavirus response, and will remain in close contact with the Trump administration’s Coronavirus task force, my colleagues in Congress, as well as local officials and health professionals in Louisiana to ensure that swift action to address this crisis continues.”
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