Manitoba NDP Leader Wab Kinew says he’s tested positive for COVID-19 and will be taking part virtually in legislature proceedings.
In a video posted to his Twitter feed shortly after 5:30 p.m. Monday, Kinew said he tested positive for the virus earlier in the day.
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He said his symptoms are mild.
“I’m lucky to have a place to self-isolate and I’m also happy that my family is doing well,” Kinew said in the video
“I am double-vaccinated, so the news today was a bit of a surprise.
“But now that I think about it, it’s an important reminder that we all need to continue to stay vigilant against the threat that is COVID-19.”
Kinew said he will take part via videoconference when the Progressive Conservative government reveals its agenda in a throne speech Tuesday — the start of a brief fall legislature sitting.
“I don’t know where I got it, but luckily I did start to self-isolate as soon as I felt the symptoms. And so it doesn’t appear as though there are very many close contacts,” he told The Canadian Press.
Kinew held a press conference last Wednesday to call for a public inquiry into the province’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Manitoba has registered the second-highest per capita death rate among the provinces, behind Quebec. Dozens of patients had to be flown to other provinces to free up intensive care beds last spring.
Kinew was first elected to the legislature in 2016 and became leader of the NDP the following year.
He urged people Monday night to follow public health orders and get vaccinated.
Well wishes came from people of all political stripes.
“Wishing you a quick recovery and the very best to you and your family at this time @Wabkinew. Get well soon,” read a message on Premier Heather Stefanson’s Twitter account.
“Wishing @Wabkinew & his family all the very best,” tweeted Winnipeg Mayor Brian Bowman.
“Appreciate the message about our community remaining vigilant in our collective battle against #COVID, including the importance of getting vaccinated.”
–With files from The Canadian Press
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