Tom Hanks has given an update on his health after testing positive for coronavirus, and it’s good news!
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Posting a message on Twitter, Tom revealed that he and his wife, Rita Wilson, have mostly recovered from the respiratory virus, writing: “Two weeks after our first symptoms and we feel better.”
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Rather than dwelling on his own predicament, however, Tom used the message to urge people to follow the precautions laid out by government and health officials since the outbreak, calling it “common sense” to stay indoors.
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Referencing measures such as social-distancing and self-isolation, Tom said: “Sheltering in place works like this: You don’t give it to anyone — you don’t get it from anyone. Common sense, no?”
“[It’s] going to take awhile, but if we take care of each other, help where we can, and give up some comforts…this, too, shall pass,” Tom continued. “We can figure this out.”
This isn’t the first time that Tom has encouraged people to follow safety precautions that have been put in place to try and slow the outbreak of the coronavirus. After testing positive, he said there were “things we can all do” to play our part.
Tom first announced that he and Rita had tested positive for COVID-19, the particular strain of coronavirus that’s caused this pandemic, two weeks ago.
The couple were forced to bunker down in Australia, where Tom had been due to begin filming on an Elvis Presley biopic. However, the illness didn’t keep Tom and Rita’s spirits down for long, as the Forrest Gump actor revealed that they had taken to playing card games to pass the time.
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“One week after testing Positive, in self-isolation, the symptoms are much the same. No fever but the blahs. Folding the laundry and doing the dishes leads to a nap on the couch,” Tom said of the couple’s symptoms. “Bad news: My wife has won 6 straight hands of Gin Rummy and leads by 201 points.”
Tom also had the chance to learn how to properly spread Vegemite on his toast after Australians judged him for his first attempt.
Tom and Rita were the first celebrities to announce that they had tested positive for the coronavirus. Since then, stars including Idris Elba, Andy Cohen, and Frozen II actor Rachel Matthews have all revealed that they too have tested positive.
This morning I tested positive for Covid 19. I feel ok, 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.
You can read more of BuzzFeed News’ coronavirus coverage here.
Ben Henry is a celebrity reporter for BuzzFeed UK and is based in London.
Contact Ben Henry at ben.henry@buzzfeed.com.
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