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“This morning I received a positive COVID-19 test result and will be quarantined for the next 14 days,” said the 47-year-old Hayes in a statement released Sunday, Sept. 20.
The news comes a day after a staffer whom Hayes said she had been in close contact with tested COVIC positive.
“After going to two urgent care centers yesterday, I finally got an appointment at a third site and was tested this morning," Hayes said.
"Contrary to popular belief, members of Congress do not get tested regularly. In fact we are not mass tested at all in DC.
"Masks, social distancing and frequent floor cleanings are the precautions that are taken in the House. I have taken every possible precaution and still contracted the coronavirus.
“My experience and the experience of my staff underscores the need for a national testing strategy with a coherent way to receive speedy, accurate results.
"This level of anxiety and uncertainty is untenable. I am asymptomatic, except for breathing issues which are being monitored. Please keep my family and my staff in your prayers.”
A Democrat who became the first African-American woman and African-American Democrat to represent Connecticut in Congress after her election in 2018.
She was named Teacher of the Year in 2016 and Waterbury School District Educator of the Year in 2015.
Hayes, who is a member of the Committees on Education & Labor and Agriculture, represents Connecticut’s 5th District, which includes parts of Fairfield, Hartford, New Haven and Litchfield counties, including Danbury, Waterbury and New Britain.
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