US Rep. Kustoff quarantining following recent COVID-19 exposure
U.S. Rep. David Kustoff, is quarantining after exposure to COVID-19, according to a statement released Tuesday afternoon.
Kustoff, the Republican who represents Tennessee’s Eighth Congressional District, learned of his exposure on Tuesday, per the statement, but did not say when it occurred. On Monday, Kustoff tested negative for the virus, he said.
Rep. Kustoff is not experiencing any symptoms, spokesperson Kate Kelly said in an email to The Commercial Appeal.
Details of Kustoff’s believed exposure, including time, place and date, were not included in the statement.
Individuals who have been exposed to COVID-19 should quarantine for 14 days, per guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Guidance from the CDC indicates health departments may reduce a quarantine period to 10 days. Quarantine can be reduced to 7 days, but only if the person tests negative for the virus on the fifth day after exposure of later.
It was not immediately clear how many days prior to the Monday test Kustoff had been exposed.
“Although I tested negative for COVID-19 yesterday, I have consulted with the Attending Physician of the United States Congress and I have been advised to self-quarantine consistent with the health guidelines,” Kustoff said in a statement, adding that he will continue taking advisement from the physician.
Kustoff said he will continue working remotely.
Laura Testino covers education and children’s issues for the Commercial Appeal. Reach her at laura.testino@ commercialappeal.com or 901-5123763. Find her on Twitter: @Ldtestino