A pastor in the United States, has issued a Coronavirus warning, after he, his wife and more than 30 others connected to their church tested positive after attending service.
Read Also: Nigerian Govt Incompetent, Can’t Tackle COVID-19 Spread – Oparanozie
Reverend Mark Palenske, who described his experience in a long Facebook post, said he had nausea, aches and fatigue, alongside his wife, Dena.
While giving numbers, Donald Shipp, of First Assemblies of God Church in Greers Ferry, told Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, that thirty-four people contracted the virus after attending an event at Palenske’s church earlier this month.
He added that other visitors are still awaiting their test results.
Read Also: Plane Carrying COVID-19 Materials Crashes With No Survivors
Palenske wrote on his Facebook page: “When something like this [COVID]-19 virus touches the other side of the world, your first inclination is to assume that time and distance are on your side. That false assumption caught up with Dena and I this past week.”
The clergy man also thanked his supporters and medical workers, urging for unity and compassion among his fellow citizens amid the outbreak.
Read Also: COVID-19: FG To Provide Relief Materials To Nigerians, Suspends SIPs Loan Repayment
“First of all, your prayers for Dena and I, our church, our community and our country are much appreciated,” Palenske said.
“Secondly, I would love to have you take this medical threat more seriously.
New York Post reports that Palenske also described the struggles he faced before he could get tested.
Read Also: COVID-19: I Didn’t Ask People Not To Sweep Their Homes For Three Days – Oba Of Benin
According to him, he only got tested for the Coronavirus, after more than two dozen people linked to the church were found to have the illness.
“We were definitely sick, but the testing was not available. Not for us, and not for dozens in the church,” he added.
Palenske said he “pushed the envelope” and eventually found a doctor, who had a few commercial tests.
The pastor also urged his followers to heed the instructions of health authorities on social distancing and hand-washing.
Read Also: Akure Blast Caused By Meteors, Not Explosives – Experts
“We must keep the affected population to as a low a number as possible,” he stated.
“Our singular act of stubborn independence can have far-reaching effects on someone else’s life.”
He also asked his followers to pray for the medical personnel treating people who have contracted the coronavirus.
“I remember the two nurses who met us out in the parking lot the day that we were tested.
Read Also: Only Those Whose Appointed Time Has Come Will Die Of COVID-19 – Adeboye
“Their world changed in a single moment, and they stood tall to the challenge… They are doing their best, not only to help us return to our lives and our families, but to help them return to theirs, as well,” he added.
Discussion about this post