Five world leaders who contracted Covid-19

Politicians keep long business hours, are often overworked, travel frequently, and have packed schedules. They are also more likely to meet people at meetings and official events. Little wonder then that they are most likely to catch the novel coronavirus. We’ve curated a list of five world leaders and politicians who contracted the coronavirus.

Emmanuel Macron, President of France

Emmanuel Macron tested positive for coronavirus in the middle of December, just two days after his administration relaxed measures to curb the second wave of the virus. The office of the President confirmed that Macron’s test was positive but assured the press that the President would isolate himself and continue with his duties remotely. All his meetings and appointments were canceled until further notice.

Andrzej Duda, President of Poland

Duda tested positive in October, but his administration was unsure where he had contracted the virus. Confirmation of his test results and a new surge in the number of positive cases in Poland occurred almost simultaneously. The President assured citizens that he “felt fine” and continued to work remotely, while he isolated himself with his wife.

Donald Trump, former President of the United States of America

Former President Donald Trump and former First Lady Melania Trump tested positive for the coronavirus in October. At the time, the United States was gearing up for the Presidential Elections and was just two weeks shy of a Presidential debate. The President announced his diagnosis shortly after his senior advisor Hope Hicks tested positive.

Jair Bolsonaro, President of Brazil

Bolsonaro, along with his wife and sons, contracted the virus in July 2020. Before his diagnosis, he was skeptical about the virus, choosing to ignore safety measures while out in public. After he was diagnosed, Bolsonaro quarantined in the presidential palace in Brasilia.

Boris Johnson, British Prime Minister

Johnson, another politician who downplayed the severity of the virus, tested Covid-19 positive in April 2020. After his test results, Johnson spent several days in the hospital and intensive care. He was even provided with oxygen and had round-the-clock medical care.