Paterson Mayor Andre Sayegh has tested positive for COVID-19.
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Mayor Sayegh says he doesn't know where he contracted the virus, and says he did everything he could to prevent it.
The mayor says residents should take the virus seriously and stay home.
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He is currently quarantined.
In a statement, Mayor Savegh says, “Today I found out that, like so many around the world, I have tested positive for COVID-19. I was one of hundreds of first responders and city employees tested this past weekend. COVID-19 is a silent virus and I do not know exactly where I may have contracted it. I am not suffering from a fever or cough, but will continue to monitor for symptoms as I am now fully quarantined to my home. My wife has been tested today as well, and we will closely monitor our children. I encourage all Patersonians to take this disease seriously and stay at home when possible. Even with all my careful efforts of social distancing for the last month - keeping six feet away from all individuals, vigorously practicing good hand hygiene, and even over the last week, wearing a mask in public - I have fallen prey to this virus. But I am a fighter and will continue to do my job on behalf of the City of Paterson. I will keep you updated on my health as the days progress."
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