Public Advocate Jumaane Williams tests positive for COVID-19

Loading Video…

This browser does not support the Video element.

3 ways to get COVID test in NYC

Dr. Ted Long, executive director of the NYC Test & Trace Corp, says anyone gathering with others for the holidays should get tested before they gather and after returning.

New York City's public advocate Jamaane Williams has announced that he has tested positive for COVID-19.

The Democrat, who is running for governor, said in a statement that he tested positive for the disease Thursday night and was experiencing mild symptoms. The 45-year-old said he was vaccinated and had received a COVID-19 booster shot.

"The recent spike in COVID-19 cases across New York is urgent and alarming, and this is a time to take precautions that can prevent both a deadly surge and the need for more restrictive measures," Williams said in the statement. "Government should take the lead by immediately transitioning to remote work whenever possible."

Williams serves as a public ombudsman in his role as public advocate.

New York City is currently struggling with an alarming increase in COVID cases. I just the last two weeks, hospitalizations have increased 22% in New York, 77% in Connecticut, and 66% in New Jersey. 

Get breaking news alerts in the free FOX5NY News app!  |  Sign up for FOX 5 email newsletters

New York CityCoronavirusCoronavirus Vaccine