Star Trek Beyond and Cats actor Idris Elba tests positive for COVID-19
Idris Elba as Captain Balthazar Edison in Star Trek Beyond
Star Trek: Beyond and Cats star Idris Elba has revealed that he’s tested positive for COVID-19, the disease caused by the novel coronavirus. The actor, who is also known for his roles in The Wire, Luther, and Marvel’s Thor films, made the announcement in a video he posted on Twitter on Monday.
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
Vanity Fair reports that Elba said in the video, “This morning I got some test results back for coronavirus and it came back positive. And it sucks.” Elba went on to explain that although he hasn’t shown any symptoms, he got tested when he learned that he had been exposed to someone else who had tested positive. His wife, Sabrina Dhowre, who appeared in the video with him, had also not been tested, and she too is asymptomatic.
Elba encouraged people watching the video to practice social distancing and handwashing. “Beyond that,” he said, “there are people out there who aren’t showing symptoms and that can easily spread it, so now’s a real time to be really vigilant.”
The World Health Organization says that “most people who become infected [with COVID-19] experience mild illness and recover, but it can be more severe for others.” They recommend that in order to take care of your health and protect others, you should: wash your hands frequently, practice social distancing, avoid touching your face, and practice respiratory hygiene. Many governments around the world have advised people to stay at home whenever possible.
And of course, while you’re staying at home and helping to #FlattenTheCurve of the coronavirus outbreak, you can rent or buy Star Trek Beyond, or you can also buy Elba’s latest film, Cats, both on multiple streaming services.
