Acclaimed actor Idris Elba tests positive for coronavirus [video]

Award-winning actor Idris Elba joins fellow actor Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson, on the list of celebrities who have tested positive for coronavirus.

The Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw star said in a statement on social media that he “feels ok” and has no symptoms so far. He added two ‘fist bump’ emoji and concluded:

“[I 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.”

Transparency is “the best thing”

He also shared a video clip on Twitter and said the situation “sucks”. The 47-year-old Elba explained that he got tested on Friday 13 March after realising he was in contact with someone who tested positive.

“Sabrina [my wife] is doing okay, she hasn’t been tested. I didn’t have any symptoms, I got tested because I realized I was exposed to someone who had also tested positive. I found out last Friday that they were tested positive, I quarantined myself, thank God, got a test immediately and got the results back today.”

“Listen, I’m doing okay,” Elba said, before telling fans “this is serious.” He then added that it is now “the time to really think about social distancing” and washing your hands.

“Beyond that, there are people out there who aren’t showing symptoms and can easily spread it. So, now is a real time to be vigilant about washing your hands and keeping your distance. Transparency is probably the best thing for this right now.”

Watch: Idris Elba tests positive for coronavirus

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. pic.twitter.com/Lg7HVMZglZ

— Idris Elba (@idriselba) March 16, 2020

The Wire star also extended condolences to those who’ve lost close ones or who have lost their economic livelihoods as businesses across the globe shut down.

“We live in a divided world right now, we can all feel it. But now’s the time for solidarity. Now’s the time for thinking about each other.”

Elba encouraged his fans to get tested if they feel ill, and to “hunker down”. He voiced solidarity with others who have the virus. At the time of publishing, about 176 000 people are infected, with 7 000 deaths worldwide.