Paterson Mayor Andre Sayegh has tested positive for COVID-19.

 

Mayor Sayegh says he doesn't know where he contracted the virus, and says he did everything he could to prevent it.

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The mayor says residents should take the virus seriously and stay home.

 

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."