By TIM SINIARD
Cleveland Mayor Kevin Brooks issued a statement early today announcing he has tested positive for COVID-19.
Brooks is currently undergoing treatment for COVID-19 and double pneumonia in Tennova-Cleveland’s medical intensive care unit.
In a statement released to the Cleveland Daily Banner, the mayor encouraged everyone to wear masks while in public.
The mayor also thanked the team at Tennova for “taking extra care during my original diagnosis of double pneumonia, as well as a new secondary diagnosis of positive for COVID-19.”
“I wanted to write and send my personal thanks from me and my family for your outpouring of care and concern during my recent hospitalization,” Brooks said. “The support is overwhelming and we are all truly grateful.”
Brooks said infectious disease specialists, hospitalists and pulmonologists are working diligently to clear all underlying medical issues, as well as COVID-19.
“Why am I making this statement?” the mayor asked. “I am making this statement to ask everyone to wear a mask when in public. If not for me, then do it for your family and your loved ones. This is a very dangerous disease. And we can slow this local increase and spread.”
He said all precautions must be followed to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
"I am a rule follower. I am a hand-washer. I am a hand-sanitizer. I am a social distancer,” Brooks said. “Alone, these actions were not enough. We also need to add wearing masks in public areas.”
He thanked everyone for their care and concern.
“This is truly 'The City With Spirit,' and it's an honor to serve as your mayor. I will see you all soon.”
On Tuesday, June 30, Brooks was admitted to Tennova-Cleveland to undergo treatment for double pneumonia in both lungs. Although two COVID-19 tests were negative, a third test revealed the mayor was positive for the virus.
