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State Rep. David Bowen tests positive for COVID-19

Posted at 2:41 PM, Mar 23, 2020
and last updated 2020-03-23 18:07:53-04

MILWAUKEE -- State Rep. David Bowen (D-Milwaukee) has tested positive for COVID-19, the disease caused by the 2019 novel coronavirus, his office said Monday.

Rep. Bowen says he was tested after running a fever late last week. He is currently in quarantine at home, and says he is still fighting symptoms but is in good spirits and recuperating.

“I found out early last week from the Shorewood Health Department that I had come in contact with a fellow local elected official who had tested positive for COVID-19, and immediately went into quarantine. Later in the week, I began showing symptoms myself, and got tested for COVID-19," Rep. Bowen said in a statement.

Unfortunately, that test came back positive this weekend. While it isn’t clear whether I was infected by this individual or someone else within our community, one thing is certain - it is imperative that this virus be taken seriously and that individuals minimize social interactions and stay home to prevent further spread of this virus and its immobilizing symptoms. Had I known of my status even earlier, I would have reduced my exposure to others who may potentially have gotten the virus from me. Even if you are young and typically healthy, it's even more important that you heed the call to stay home, take care of your family, and not spread the virus to others who are vulnerable.”

Bowen said he was in favor of Gov. Tony Evers' "Safter at Home" order, which will be signed Tuesday.

"This order will help ensure that individuals stay home and only go out in public to pick up essentials like groceries and medicine, or to go to the doctor," Bowen said.

As of Monday afternoon, there were more than 400 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Wisconsin. Five people have died. 7,050 people have tested negative for the disease.

'Life and death': Mayor Barrett, Health Commissioner Kowalik issue 'Stay at Home' order for Milwaukee

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