MANILA, Philippines — Actor Daniel Dae Kim announced Thursday he has been tested positive for the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).
Kim, who stars in “Hawaii Five-O” and “Lost,” shared in an Instagram video that he developed a scratchy throat while on his flight from New York City to Hawaii where he lives with his family.
“As the flight was close to landing, I started noticing some scratchiness on my throat which is unlike how I usually get sick,” Kim said.
Kim had been reportedly filming a new series – “New Amsterdam” – in New York City where he ironically played the role of a doctor responding to a flu pandemic. The show’s production was halted due to the virus’ threat.
The actor said he placed himself under self-quarantine and later began to experience chest tightness, body aches and a fever.
His family doctor then advised him to get tested for COVID-19, which he did in a drive-thru testing center in Honolulu, the only time he left his home.
“I never went to a hospital but with the help of medication and bed rest and liquids and of course my loving family, I didn’t need to. I actually started feeling better. Today, even though I’m not 100%, I’m pretty close,” Kim said.
Kim also urged the public to follow the guidelines, since one may be “potentially endangering the lives of millions of people, including your loved ones.”
He also called for an end the rising xenophobia since the COVID-19 crisis began.
“Please, please stop the prejudice and senseless violence against Asian people,” Kim said.
“Yes, I’m Asian. And yes, I have coronavirus, but I did not get it in China. I got it in America. In New York City,” he added.
Other celebrities who have announced testing positive for COVID-19 are Tom Hanks and Idris Elba.
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