Prime Minister Scott Morrison tests positive for Covid-19

Prime Minister Scott Morrison has tested positive for Covid-19.

In a statement released to social media on Tuesday, March 1, Morrison confirmed he tested positive after “experiencing flu-like symptoms.”

“I had tested myself daily since Sunday, including this morning, with all tests returning a negative result,” he said.

“I took a further test this evening after developing a fever late today. The test was inconclusive so I took a PCR test tonight, which returned a positive result late this evening.

“I am continuing to follow health guidelines and am isolating at home in Sydney.

“Jenny and the girls have thankfully tested negative but will isolate for seven days at home as close contacts.”

Morrison said he will continue to “discharge” his duties as Prime Minister while he completes his isolation period.  Morrison’s immediate agenda will be handling the New South Wales and Queensland flood emergency as well as addressing the unfolding conflict between Russia and Ukraine, while completing work on the Federal Budget which is due to be handed down at the end of the month.

Morrison’s positive Covid-19 result comes after he attended a National Security Committee meeting with senior ministers early on March 1 and held a press conference alongside Defence Minister Peter Dutton.

Dutton told ABC News that Morrison’s symptoms seemed “pretty light” and the Prime Minister was keen to continue working.

“I think he’s in pretty good spirits and back fully recovered pretty soon,” he said.

The Prime Minister also met with Nauru President Lionel Aingimea, posting a photo of the pair shaking hands after meeting in Sydney.

Lovely to meet my good friend President Lionel Aingimea in Sydney today to reinforce strong Australia-Nauru ties, resilient infrastructure, Pacific Islands Forum unity and Ukraine’s sovereignty. The Pacific family is stronger together. pic.twitter.com/pp8GfYvhFA

— Scott Morrison (@ScottMorrisonMP) March 1, 2022

Morrison is the latest in a number of politicians who have contracted Covid-19 after Deputy PM Barnaby Joyce contracted the virus after a trip to Washington DC in December 2021. Peter Dutton also came down with the virus in March 2020 after developing a sore throat and high temperature.