Bill Gates contracts COVID-19

Microsoft co-founder and the billionaire philanthropist Bill Gates has tested positive for Covid-19 and is experiencing mild symptoms.

On his official twitter handle, Bill Gates said he would adhere to the advice of medical experts by self-isolating until he is healthy again.

The 66-year-old billionare wrote: "I've tested positive for COVID. I'm experiencing mild symptoms and am following the experts' advice by isolating until I'm healthy again”. 

I've tested positive for COVID. I'm experiencing mild symptoms and am following the experts' advice by isolating until I'm healthy again.

— Bill Gates (@BillGates) May 10, 2022

In another tweet, Mr Gates said "I'm fortunate to be vaccinated and boosted and have access to testing and great medical care".

I'm fortunate to be vaccinated and boosted and have access to testing and great medical care.

— Bill Gates (@BillGates) May 10, 2022

Bill Gates has been a vocal proponent of pandemic mitigation measures, specifically about access to vaccines and medication for poorer countries. 

The Gates Foundation in October said it will spend $120 million to boost access to generic versions of drugmaker Merck's antiviral Covid-19 pill for lower-income countries.  

In April 2022, he also published a book called “How to Prevent the Next Pandemic". The book focuses on preemptive planning and protective measures that could help the world better manage future pandemics.