NFL Team Owner Released From Newport Hospital After Coronavirus

NEWPORT, RI — The owner of the Arizona Cardinals was released Sunday from Newport Hospital, where he was being treated for the coronavirus. He said he learned firsthand "how serious COVID-19 is," in a statement released by the organization.

Michael Bidwill, 55, was admitted to the hospital after he developed symptoms, according to the statement from the Cardinals. He is believed to have contracted the virus while traveling on the East Coast, and he has not had contact with players, staff or coaches.

Since the Cardinals' facility was closed in mid-March, officials said Bidwill has been working remotely.

While on the road in recent weeks, Bidwill developed a fever and headache, the Arizona Republic reported. Both are symptoms of coronavirus, which can appear two to 14 days after exposure.

His test came back positive, and he was admitted to Newport Hospital, according to the Cardinals.

"This week I learned first-hand just how serious COVID-19 is," Bidwill said in a statement Sunday. "My immense appreciation for those on the front lines of this pandemic has only increased, and I am particularly grateful to the tremendous nurses and doctors at Newport (R.I.) Hospital."

There were 61 people hospitalized in Rhode Island with the coronavirus as of Friday, according to the Rhode Island Department of Health.

"I'm very fortunate to have this experience behind me and strongly encourage everyone to continue practicing the important measures to avoid it themselves," Bidwill said Sunday.

To prevent the spread of the virus, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends staying away from those who are sick; keeping 6 feet of distance between oneself and others; wearing a cloth face covering in public; washing hands with soap and water or hand sanitizer that is at least 60 percent alcohol; and cleaning and disinfecting surfaces.

See Also:

• Rhode Island Stepping Up Enforcement Of Coronavirus Regulations
• Visitors Again Allowed In Rhode Island Hospitals
• Fundraiser Launched For Newport Hospital Coronavirus Response
• Phillies Players Test Positive For Coronavirus