URBANA – US Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) said Thursday morning that he will work remotely after testing positive for COVID-19.
In a statement, the 77-year-old said he is vaccinated against the illness.
“Thankfully, I am fully vaccinated and double boosted and only experiencing minor symptoms,” said Durbin. “Consistent with CDC guidelines, I will quarantine and follow advice from my doctor while I continue to work remotely.”
Durbin’s diagnosis comes one day after President Joe Biden emerged from isolation after contracting COVID-19. Last week, the 79-year-old president tested positive and had mild symptoms. Biden’s physician, Dr. Kevin O’Connor, says the president completed his course of treatment with the drug Paxlovid.
Also, last week, Governor J.B. Pritzker (D-IL) announced he experienced mild symptoms after testing positive for coronavirus. He was also prescribed the anti-viral medication Paxlovid.
The Illinois Department of Public Health reported on Friday that all but eight counties in the state are experiencing “high” or “medium” levels locally of COVID-19. Health officials urge caution and urge people to wear face coverings indoors.