Canada’s foreign affairs minister tested for COVID-19 after experiencing flu-like symptoms

Written by: Aru Kaul

He is currently in self isolation waiting for the results

Canada’s foreign affairs minister François-Philippe Champagne has been tested for coronavirus, within 14 days of returning from an international trip.

Champagne returned from a trip to Poland, Latvia and Ukraine on March 6. 2020.

He tweeted on Thursday afternoon, saying that he has been tested as an abundance of caution.

(@FP_Champagne/Twitter)

As a result of self-isolating, Champagne is continuing to work from home to coordinate Canada’s international response to the pandemic.

“I will continue to work around the clock to support Canadians facing difficulties abroad and to coordinate the international response to this crisis,” Champagne said.

“We must remember to practice social distancing & take all necessary precautions to protect each other in the face of this virus,” he added.

Other key political figures have been tested

Champagne is the third federal cabinet minister to report being tested. Natural Resource Minister Seamus O'Regan and Minister of Small Business and Export Production Mary Ng both tested negative for COVID-19 last week.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has been self-isolating for a week ever since his wife, Sophie Grégoire Trudeau tested positive after returning from a trip to the United Kingdom. Trudeau has not shown any symptoms as of yet.

With coronavirus on a concerning rise, Health Canada is reminding individuals to monitor their health for any signs and symptoms of COVID-19, especially those who attend events or large gatherings. Health Canada recommends staying home if you are not feeling well during this time. Also, unexpected cancellations can occur at any moment, so it is important to check if the event you plan to attend is still taking place.