Gov. Gen. Mary Simon tests positive for COVID-19, has mild symptoms

OTTAWA – Canada’s Governor General has tested positive for COVID-19.

Gov. Gen. Mary Simon says in a statement on Twitter that she tested positive Wednesday morning and is experiencing mild symptoms.

Simon says she will continue to self-isolate and take some time to rest in the coming days.

Her diagnosis follows that of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who recently returned to Parliament after testing positive for COVID-19 on Jan. 31.

Simon, 74, is Canada’s first Indigenous Governor General and was sworn into the role last July.

She says in her statement that she and her husband, Whit Fraser, are experiencing firsthand that the pandemic is not over yet, but tremendous progress is being made.

“We are both grateful for all those making a difference in our fight against this virus,” she said.

“From health-care workers to those supporting loved ones at home, thank you for all you do.”

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Feb. 9, 2022.