Capitol doctor said lawmakers may have been exposed to Covid-19 during riot lockdown

House lawmakers may have been exposed to Covid-19 when they went into hiding during Wednesday’s riots on Capitol Hill, the Congressional attending physician wrote in a letter to members and staff on Sunday.

“Many members of the House community were in protective isolation [a] room located in a large committee hearing space, “said Dr Brian Monahan, adding:” During this time, people may have been exposed to another occupant with coronavirus infection. “

He advised members to maintain their “usual daily coronavirus risk reduction measures” such as social distancing and symptom control. He said they should also get tested for the virus next week as a precaution.

Members of Congress were rushed to safe havens after supporters of President Donald Trump entered the Capitol building in an attempt to prevent Congress from counting Electoral College votes and confirming the victory of President-elect Joe Biden .

A courtroom where many members were sheltered exhibited inconsistent mask wear and social distancing. Videos posted on social media show several members of Congress without masks in the crowded room.

The Covid-19 pandemic is still raging in the United States even as vaccines begin to become available. So far, there have been more than 22 million confirmed cases in the United States and more than 373,000 deaths.

More than 50 members of Congress have so far tested positive for the virus, according to an NBC News tally.