Bill Gates discusses his book “How to Prevent the Next Pandemic” at the 92nd Street Y on May 3 in New York. The Microsoft co-founder and billionaire philanthropist posted on Twitter on Tuesday that he tested positive for COVID-19. (Photo by Evan Agostini/Invision/AP, File)

Bill Gates discusses his book “How to Prevent the Next Pandemic” at the 92nd Street Y on May 3 in New York. The Microsoft co-founder and billionaire philanthropist posted on Twitter on Tuesday that he tested positive for COVID-19. (Photo by Evan Agostini/Invision/AP, File)

Bill Gates says he has COVID, experiencing mild symptoms

The billionaire philanthropist said he will isolate until he is again healthy.

  • By Wire Service
  • Wednesday, May 11, 2022 6:24am
  • Northwest

Associated Press

SEATTLE — Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates said Tuesday he has tested positive for COVID-19 and is experiencing mild symptoms.

Via Twitter, the billionaire philanthropist said he will isolate until he is again healthy.

“I’m fortunate to be vaccinated and boosted and have access to testing and great medical care,” Gates wrote.

The Seattle-based Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation is the most influential private foundation in the world, with an endowment of about $65 billion.

Bill Gates has been a vocal proponent for pandemic mitigation measures, specifically 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.

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