Bristol Health CEO Tests Positive for Coronavirus

BRISTOL, CT — In a letter to all employees, medical staff and board, Bristol Health's President and CEO Kurt Barwis announced he tested positive for the new coronavirus.

In the letter, obtained by FOX61, Barwis said he was symptomatic on Friday night, and was told by his doctor to be tested before returning to work. The test was completed by Bristol Health's specimen collection station. Barwis will be on quarantined in his home for at least 14 days.

"I just cannot stress enough that if you are not feeling well that you please follow the CDC guidelines and contact your primary care physician immediately to be tested," Barwis said in the letter. "It's vital that everyone please practice social distancing, wear personal protective equipment when working with patients, and constantly wash your hands and use hand sanitizer."

Barwis said he will continue to lead the hospital's operations and finances remotely. Two negative COVID-19 tests are required before he can return to work, he said.