A SPANISH journalist has tested positive for coronavirus after travelling to Milan to cover Valencia’s Champions League clash with Atalanta.
The reporter, 44, took himself to the Hospital Clinic de Valencia on Thursday morning after experiencing mild symptoms.
A Spanish journalist has tested positive for coronavirus after covering the Champions League game between Atalanta and ValenciaCredit: AP:Associated Press
According to AS, the Italian Ministry of Health report that he was taken to the National Microbiology Centre to confirm he has contracted the deadly virus.
He is understood to be the second person in the Valencia region in South-East Spain.
But he is adamant he is “perfect” and “no one” should be alarmed.
The journalist said: “I am very perfect. I have the symptoms of a flu but nothing more.
“I am fine, I am calm and very well attended.
“For responsibility I went to the doctor and they referred me to the hospital to do the tests.
“I had been in Milan and I think my obligation was to go. Yesterday I did not go to work.
“Really, the symptoms I have would not prevent me from going to work but I did the tests for pure responsibility.
“Let no one be alarmed, I am perfect.”
ITALY OUTBREAK
He reported on the first leg of the Champions League last-16 tie in Italy on February 19, which the Serie A side won 4-1.
The game was staged at the San Siro in Milan, 35 miles from their usual home, the Stadio Atleti Azzurri d’Italia, as it does not meet Uefa standards due to renovation work.
Twelve people have died from coronavirus in Italy since Friday, as the country has become the worst affected country in Europe with more than 400 cases.
It emerged Italy’s first known patient was allowed to potentially infect others for 36 hours in hospital before being tested for coronavirus and then isolated, it has been reported.
Lockdown zones have been established in areas in North Italy, including just outside Milan.
Reports state “three or four” Valencia fans remain in their homes after returning from the game.
And the LaLiga outfit are considering blocking the 2,300 Atalanta fans who have bought tickets for the second leg on March 10 to enter the Mestalla.
Italy’s Six Nations match against Ireland in Dublin has already been postponed due to coronavirus fears.
Organisers had been monitoring the situation “very closely” as the outbreak starts to spread throughout Europe.
The game was scheduled to take place in Dublin on March 7 with thousands of Italian supporters, many from the regions most affected, expected to make the trip.
Ireland were also due to play Italy in an Under-20 Six Nations game and women’s international that weekend – both have been cancelled.
The game was held at the San Siro in Milan and Valencia are considering blocking Atalanta fans attending the second leg in SpainCredit: EPA
Statement as Ireland vs Italy Six Nations rugby clash called off due to coronavirus outbreak
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
