French government spokesman Attal said on the 17th that French President Macron’s infection with the novel coronavirus will not affect the normal operation of the government.
Attal said on the same day in the French Senate that government personnel have become accustomed to working in a similar environment; neither those who test positive or close contacts will have an impact on the operation of the government, and they will continue to work through videoconference and other means. He also confirmed that Macron would work remotely.
Attal also revealed some details of Macron’s infection with the novel coronavirus. He said that Macron felt symptoms late at night on the 16th and immediately quarantined himself. Macron was subsequently tested for the virus and tested positive.
Attal said that, like other confirmed cases, people in contact with the president began to contact tracing and demand quarantine. The French presidential palace said that Macron was tested for the virus on the 17th.
It is understood that the high-level people who have had close contact with Macron this week include Macron’s wife Brigitte, French Prime Minister Casté, French National Assembly President Ferran, Portuguese Prime Minister Costa and Spanish Prime Minister Sánchez. French official sources say that Bridget, Castel, Ferand and other people have been quarantined.
French Prime Minister Castel has been tested for the virus on the 17th and tested negative. According to the regulations, he will be tested for the virus again in seven days. According to the official itinerary, Castel met with Macron on the evening of the 16th.
Macron met with Portuguese Prime Minister Costa on the 16th, had a working lunch and attended a press conference together. Portuguese officials said on the 17th that Costa has been quarantined and currently has no symptoms, and he will be tested for the novel coronavirus on the same day.
In addition, Macron met with Spanish Prime Minister Sánchez on the 14th. On the 17th, Sanchez said that he would suspend all activities and be quarantined in the next few days.
