Georgia Sen. Brandon Beach announces positive COVID-19 test, asks for public’s prayers

Georgia State Sen. Brandon Beach has announced that he has tested positive for COVID-19.  The Alpharetta state lawmaker reportedly began experiencing symptoms last week and was present during the special session held on Monday at the Georgia Capitol.

“After experiencing a fever and cough, I sought medical attention last week,” Beach told 11 Alive News. “The diagnosis I was given was not coronavirus, but I did get tested for it on Saturday.”

Beach said that with medication, he felt better by Monday and thought he “was clear.” He said his test came back positive on Wednesday and he would be in self-quarantine for the next 14 days.

“I know Georgians are praying hard as we weather this crisis together,” he wrote. “And frankly, I’d ask that they pray for me, as well as all the others in our state who are going through this right now – and those who soon will.”

House Speaker David Ralston sent out an email urging state lawmakers and staff members to “self quarantine, particularly those who were in close contact with the Senator in the last week.”

Ralston said in the email that he had been in consultation with House leadership and Director of Public Health Kathleen Toomey concerning the situation.

“Out of an abundance of caution, we are recommending House members, House staff, and the joint offices self-quarantine, particularly those who were in close contact with the Senator in the last week. The members of the Senate and Lt. Governor are doing the same,” Ralston stated.

Ralston said the lawmakers should contact their primary provider if they begin experiencing symptoms.

Georgia Department of Public Health has set up a COVID-19 hotline for questions about the virus at 1-844-442-2681.