Actor Idris Elba Confirms Coronavirus Diagnosis

HOLLYWOOD, CA — Actor Idris Elba confirmed he's contracted the coronavirus Monday, tweeting that he tested positive but has experienced no symptoms so far.

Elba is the latest in a string of celebrities and dignitaries to contract the disease including actors Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson, NBA players Rudy Gobert and Donovan Mitchell, and Sophie Gregoire Trudeau, wife of Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau.

Elba, 47, has remained isolated since he was diagnosed, he said. However, he posted a video on social media showing him next to his wife, Sabrina.

"I got tested because I realized I was exposed to someone who had also tested positive," Elba said in the video.

"... Look, this is serious," he said. "Now is the time to really think about social distancing and washing your hands.

"... We live in a divided world right now -- we can all feel it," he said. "... But now is the time for solidarity, now is the time for thinking about each other. There's so many people whose lives have been affected."

Don't miss local and statewide news about coronavirus developments and precautions. Sign up for Patch alerts and daily newsletters.

Elba is best known for his roles in films such as "Beasts of No Nation" and "Thor," and the series "The Wire."

For most people, the symptoms of the coronavirus are mild. However, it can be deadly for older adults and people with existing health problems.

There is currently no vaccine to prevent coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus. However, as a reminder, CDC always recommends everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory diseases, including:

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
• Stay home when you are sick.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
• Follow CDC's recommendations for using a facemask.
  • CDC does not recommend that people who are well wear a facemask to protect themselves from respiratory diseases, including COVID-19.
  • Facemasks should be used by people who show symptoms of COVID-19 to help prevent the spread of the disease to others. The use of facemasks is also crucial for health workers and people who are taking care of someone in close settings (at home or in a health care facility).
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
  • If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.