We’ve been checking in on Tom Hanks after he shared that he was diagnosed with the new coronavirus. We may now have to do the same with beloved actor Idris Elba, who has revealed that he’s also grappling with COVID-19. “This morning I tested positive for COVID-19,” Elba tweeted, adding, “I feel okay, 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.”
In a video accompanying his tweet, Elba explained that he chose to get tested despite being asymptomatic because he realized he was “exposed to someone who had also tested positive.” Elba reassured the world that he and his wife, actress and model Sabrina Dhowre, were “doing okay” and added that Dhowre had not yet been tested. Ever the class act, Elba took the opportunity to reiterate the importance of social distancing and handwashing during this pandemic, reminding us, “There are people out there who aren’t showing symptoms, and that can easily spread it.”
“Now’s the time for solidarity,” Elba said in his video, noting the many people who have had their livelihoods and daily existences upended by COVID-19. It’s worth noting that, while his words and expression are serious, Elba doesn’t seem to be panicking; he even warned viewers to “stay positive, and don’t freak out.”
As more people are diagnosed with COVID-19, the U.S. and global economies take a hit, and governments scramble to effectively address the spread of the disease, we’re all learning to find comfort in unlikely sources; for some of us right now, that means letting actors like Hanks and Elba reassure us that they’re doing okay.
Source: Vogue.com
