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Sen. Ted Cruz interacted with a second person who tested positive for coronavirus, he says

Cruz said he is now extending his self-quarantine until March 17.

HOUSTON, Texas — U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz said he is extending his self-quarantine after he was informed Thursday he had a second interaction with a person who tested positive for COVID-19.

The Texas senator originally came into contact with someone who had tested positive for the coronavirus days ago. His self-quarantine ended on March 12, but he is now extending it until March 17.

"On March 3, I met in my D.C. office with Santiago Abascal, the leader of the Vox Party in Spain. We met for about 20 minutes, sitting together at a conference table. We shook hands twice and took pictures together," Cruz said. "My understanding is that Mr. Abascal tested positive for COVID-19 last night. His staff has informed us that he was asymptomatic at the time of our meeting and that several days after our meeting he had extended interactions with another individual who has also tested positive."

This comes after the City of Austin confirmed on March 13 there are now coronavirus cases in the Austin area.

Cruz said March 13 that he still has no symptoms and feels fine. He said he is consulting with medical officials.

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“Everyone should continue to treat this outbreak seriously and be driven by facts and medical science," Cruz previously said. "We need to continue to be proactive in mobilizing resources to combat this outbreak – including the $8.3 billion in emergency funding we provided last week – and I encourage everyone to follow the recommendations of the CDC and other health professionals in protecting their own health and welfare, as well as the health and welfare of those around them.” 

Here are recommendations from health officials to help prevent the spread of coronavirus:

  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • Stay home when you are sick. Keeping a sick child at home prevents the spread of illness in the school and community and allows your child an opportunity to rest and recover.
  • Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze.
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

WATCH: Sen. Ted Cruz interacted with person who has tested positive for coronavirus, he says

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