Sen. Brandon Beach had complained he had a cough and a fever from March 10 and got tested for the virus last Saturday. Thinking that he was all clear, he turned up for Monday’s session before he learned of the results.

But on Wednesday, the Republican from Alpharetta was told he had tested positive, prompting all 236 lawmakers and staff at the Capitol in Atlanta to self-isolate for 14 days, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported.

The state senate said in a statement, “While not a part of the official recommendation to self-quarantine, members of the public who frequent the Capitol should use their best judgment when making a decision to self-quarantine and should contact their primary care provider if they begin to exhibit any symptoms.”

However, Beach was accused by one senator of unnecessarily putting his colleagues at risk.

Rep. Scot Turner wrote on Facebook, “I’m shaking with rage. We were told if we had symptoms to refrain from going to the Capitol on Monday. Senator Brandon Beach knew he was exhibiting symptoms since MARCH THE 10TH!”

“I have an elderly hospice patient at home. He irresponsibly stayed all day at the Capitol on Monday after being tested on Saturday and exposed all of us,” he wrote.

Newsweek has contacted Beach’s office for further comment. Beach said in a statement carried by local media outlets that he had sought medical attention after experiencing a fever and cough.

“The diagnosis I was given was not coronavirus, but I did get tested for it on Saturday, " he said, believing that he “was in the clear” until he got the positive test, according to WXIA.

“I know many Georgians are praying hard as we weather this crisis together, and frankly, I’d ask that they pray for me,” Beach said, “as well as all the others in our state who are going through this right now and those who soon will.”

During the legislative session, Gov. Brian Kemp was granted powers to respond to the outbreak, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported. All public schools have been ordered to close until the end of March. There have been 197 confirmed coronavirus cases in Georgia and four deaths.

The publication reported that Kemp would not self-isolate because had had not met with Beach recently.

Hygiene advice

Clean hands frequently with soap and water, or alcohol-based hand rub. Wash hands after coughing or sneezing; when caring for the sick; before; during and after food preparation; before eating; after using the toilet; when hands are visibly dirty; and after handling animals or waste. Maintain at least 1 meter (3 feet) distance from anyone who is coughing or sneezing. Avoid touching your hands, nose and mouth. Do not spit in public. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or bent elbow when coughing or sneezing. Discard the tissue immediately and clean your hands.

Medical advice

If you feel unwell (fever, cough, difficulty breathing) seek medical care early and call local health authorities in advance. Stay up to date on COVID-19 developments issued by health authorities and follow their guidance.

Mask usage

Healthy individuals only need to wear a mask if taking care of a sick person. Wear a mask if you are coughing or sneezing. Masks are effective when used in combination with frequent hand cleaning. Do not touch the mask while wearing it. Clean hands if you touch the mask. Learn how to properly put on, remove and dispose of masks. Clean hands after disposing of mask. Do not reuse single-use masks.