Nyle DiMarco at the 2017 GQ Men of the Year party in Los Angeles, California. Image: AFP/Getty Images for GQ/Michael Kovac
Deaf model and actor Nyle DiMarco decided not to get tested despite showing COVID-19 symptoms to ensure that people with more serious cases have access to testing kits first.
The 30-year-old revealed he was experiencing symptoms of the disease since March 15, as per his Instagram post yesterday, March 22.
He then stated that it is “very possible” that he contracted the coronavirus but reassured his fans that he is now feeling better. While DiMarco has access to get tested for the virus and the disease it causes, he refused to do so.
“The reason is because there is a shortage of [COVID-19] test kits in the [United States] and the sick patients need it more than I do,” he explained.
He noted that he had a fever, body chills, a sore throat and a mild cough for 48 hours starting March 15. DiMarco added that he has also experienced not being able to taste or smell, which others with COVID-19 have reportedly felt.
“I knew I wasn’t a high risk so I stayed calm. I communicated with my doctor and self-quarantined,” DiMarco said. “I kept an eye out for any respiratory issues because if it worsened, it could be deadly.”
Despite the symptoms, he said he has since recovered and is currently self-isolating to stop the spread of the disease. The Deaf model-actor also emphasized the importance of testing amid the pandemic.
“Widespread testing has been a key part for some countries like South Korea’s efforts in handling [COVID-19],” he stressed.
He then urged others who may experience symptoms but are healthier and do not feel respiratory issues to prioritize sick patients that need to get tested. DiMarco also reminded the public to stay home to avoid spreading the virus.
“We’re in this together,” he added. “[Let’s] look out for each other!” JB
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