Mario Diaz-Balart: First US Congress member tests positive for coronavirus

The 58-year-old confirmed he has tested positive

(Getty Images)

Representative Mario Diaz-Balart has tested positive for coronavirus, making him the first US Congress member known to have the disease.

The Florida Republican first began to show symptoms on Saturday evening, suffering from a fever and headache.

The GOP congressman confirmed today that he has tested positive and is currently self-quarantining.

“I want everyone to know that I am feeling much better,” Mr Diaz-Balart said in a statement. “However, it is important that everyone take this extremely seriously and follow CDC guidelines in order to avoid getting sick and mitigate the spread of this virus. We must continue to work together to emerge stronger as a country during these trying times.”

More than 300 cases of coronavirus have been confirmed in Florida so far, according to the state’s department of health.

As of Wednesday, 117 people have died from the virus across the US, with 7,000 cases in total.

“On Saturday evening, Congressman Diaz-Balart developed symptoms including a fever and headache. Just a short while ago, he was notified that he has tested positive for Covid 19,” the congressman’s office said.

Mr Diaz-Balart represents the 25th district of Florida, and is 58 years old.

The Senate passed a second coronavirus emergency aid package on Wednesday. Donald Trump is soon expected to sign the provisions it includes – such as paid sick leave – into law.