New Orleans Saints coach Sean Payton told ESPN on Thursday that has tested positive for coronavirus.
Payton, 56, is the first known NFL figure to be diagnosed with the virus.
In an interview with ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the Saints’ coach revealed that he didn’t feel well Sunday and was tested for the disease after. He added he does not have a fever or cough and is confident in recovery.
But Payton urged people to stay home to prevent the spread of coronavirus.
“This is not just about social distancing,” Payton said. “It’s shutting down here for a week to two weeks. If people understand the curve, and understand the bump, we can easily work together as a country to reduce it. Take a minute to understand what the experts are saying. It’s not complicated to do what they’re asking of us. Just that type of small investment by every one of us will have a dramatic impact.”
Payton was seen at Oaklawn Park for a horse racing event, Yahoo Sports reported, despite the NFL issuing travel advisories to teams about the spread of coronavirus.
Since taking the test Monday, Payton said he has remained at home and will be quarantined through the weekend.
“I was fortunate to be in the minority, without the serious side effects that some have,” Payton said. “I’m lucky. Younger people feel like they can handle this, but they can be a carrier to someone who can’t handle it. So we all need to do our part. It’s important for every one of us to do our part.”
According to the CDC, more than 10,000 people in the United States have tested positive for the virus. In sports, at least seven NBA players (including star Kevin Durant), two MLB minor leaguers and one NHL player have been told they have coronavirus.
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