Lt. Governor Will Ainsworth (R-AL) on Wednesday announced that he has tested positive for COVID-19, despite taking every possible effort to follow CDC health and safety protocols.

“After being notified this afternoon that a member of my Sunday school church group had acquired the coronavirus, I was tested out of an abundance of caution and received notice that the results proved positive,” Ainsworth explained in a statement.

“Because I follow social distancing rules and wear a mask both in church and in my daily interactions, the positive result shows that even those of us who are the most cautious can be at risk,” he continued.

The lieutenant governor noted that Alabama State Health Officer Dr. Scott Harris has been informed of the test result, and Ainsworth’s office “is taking the necessary steps.”

“Though no symptoms have yet appeared, I will quarantine for the appropriate period and seek follow-up tests to ensure the virus has run its course before resuming public activities,” Ainsworth concluded. “I appreciate the words of support that have already begun to be extended and am thankful for the prayers that are being offered for my recovery.”

Sean Ross is the editor of Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @sean_yhn