WASHINGTON -- The head of the Food and Drug Administration has placed himself in self-quarantine for the next two weeks after coming in contact with a person who has tested positive for COVID-19.
Stephen Hahn is also a member of the White House coronavirus task force.
The FDA isn't disclosing the identity of the person who had tested positive.
An FDA spokeswoman says Hahn tested negative for the virus after he learned of the contact.
Word about Hahn comes after the disclosure that Vice President Mike Pence's press secretary has the coronavirus.
Katie Miller is the second person who works at the White House complex known to test positive for the virus this week.
COVID-19 Precautions
Most patients with COVID-19 have mild to moderate symptoms. However, in a small proportion of patients, COVID-19 can lead to more severe illness, including death, particularly among those who are older or those who have chronic medical conditions.
COVID-19 spreads primarily through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
Symptoms include fever, cough, and difficulty breathing. Symptoms appear within 14 days of being exposed to an infectious person.
Virginia health officials urged the following precautions:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
- Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer only if soap and water are not available.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.Stay home when you are sick.
- Avoid contact with sick people.Avoid non-essential travel.