South Dakota lawmaker tested for virus; session continues

PIERRE, S.D. (AP) — A South Dakota lawmaker was being tested for COVID-19 on Thursday as the Legislature completes one if its final days of the session.

Rep. Spencer Gosch, a Glenham Republican, was feeling ill and decided to be tested Thursday morning, House Speaker Steve Haugaard said. Gosch was to avoid contact with other people, Haugaard said.

No other details were given about Gosch's symptoms.

The Legislature didn't immediately alter their schedule or any routines. Lawmakers are trying to complete a budget on Thursday, the final work day aside from a day at the end of the month reserved for wrap-up business and responding to vetoes.

South Dakota has eight people who have tested positive for COVID-19, the disease caused by the new coronavirus strain. One man with underlying health problems died on Tuesday.

For most people, the new coronavirus causes only mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia.

The vast majority of people recover from the new virus. According to the World Health Organization, people with mild illness recover in about two weeks, while those with more severe illness may take three to six weeks to recover.

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