This Actor Documented Her COVID-19 Symptoms For A Week After Testing Positive For The Disease
Rachel Matthews also shared a post from actor Idris Elba, who revealed on Monday that he had tested positive for the disease in a video posted to his Twitter account.
This is actor Rachel Matthews, star of movies like Happy Death Day and Frozen II.
In a message posted to her Instagram story on Monday, the 26-year-old shared the news that she had tested positive for COVID-19 — the disease caused by the coronavirus — and has been quarantined for the last week.
"Let's please be mindful of our decisions," she ended the statement. "Now is the time to be smart and responsible. Let's take care of one another!"
But in addition to her message revealing she'd tested positive for the disease, Matthews also shared a diary of the symptoms she'd experienced over the course of her seven-day quarantine.
The symptoms ranged from a "sore throat, fatigue, and headache" on the first day to developing a fever, minor body aches, and shortness of breath throughout the week.
According to the diary, by the fifth day, Matthews' symptoms were more manageable, though she was still experiencing "shortness of breath, loss of appetite, fatigue and no taste/smell".
"Thought I'd write down my week in order," she wrote on the note posted to her Instagram story, before reminding her followers that symptoms do vary.
You can find a full list of symptoms on the World Health Organization and NHS websites.
Matthews went on to post another message telling her followers that, while tests are "insanely hard to come by", they should be acting with caution if they're showing any symptoms at all.
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"The reality is, [tests] are INSANELY hard to come by," she wrote. "Our country is very behind and we don't have much of a system in place. I only got tested because I had been around a confirmed case and had been showing symptoms.
"Please, if you have any symptoms at all but can't find a test please just treat yourself as if you are positive. Rest, drink lots of liquids, and SELF QUARANTINE."
However, she did say those who are "at a higher risk" from the disease should take different precautions.
Matthews also shared a post from actor Idris Elba, who yesterday revealed that he had tested positive for COVID-19 after learning he'd been in contact with someone who had the disease.
This morning I tested positive for Covid 19. I feel ok, I have no symptoms so far but have been isolated since I found out about my possible exposure to the virus. Stay home people and be pragmatic. I will keep you updated on how I’m doing 👊🏾👊🏾 No panic.
"You can also be a carrier with no symptoms," Matthews added.
"There are people out there who aren't showing symptoms, and that can easily spread it, okay? So now's the real time to be really vigilant about washing your hands and keeping your distance," Elba said in a video posted to his Twitter account.
