Liverpool legend Kenny Dalglish has tested positive for coronavirus, despite not showing any symptoms for the disease.
The Scot was in hospital to receive treatment for another infection when he was tested for COVID-19, as is the current procedure in the UK. Surprisingly, the test came back positive.
In a statement released on the Liverpool website this evening, it was explained how the diagnosis came about:
Sir Kenny was admitted to hospital on Wednesday April 8 for treatment of an infection which required intravenous antibiotics.
In keeping with current procedures, he was subsequently tested for COVID-19 despite having previously displayed no symptoms of the illness. Unexpectedly, the test result was positive but he remains asymptomatic.
Prior to his admission to hospital, Sir Kenny had chosen to voluntarily self-isolate for longer than the advised period together with his family. He would urge everyone to follow the relevant government and expert guidance in the days and weeks ahead.
He would like to take this opportunity to thank the brilliant NHS staff, whose dedication, bravery and sacrifice should be the focus of the nation’s attention at this extraordinary time.
He would also ask that they are given the space to do their jobs during what is an extremely challenging time for them and that his own family’s privacy is respected.
He looks forward to being home soon. We will provide further updates as and when it is appropriate.
It is estimated that around 50% of those who contract COVID-19 may be asymptomatic, meaning they do not show any of the common symptoms associated with the virus. However, they are still able to pass it on to those who could suffer serious side-effects.
There is also the possibility that a test could detect the disease early on, with symptoms coming at a later stage.
