'Younger' star Debi Mazar tests positive for Covid-19

Younger star Debi Mazar revealed on Saturday that she has contracted Covid-19. 

The actor shared a lengthy Instagram message with fans following her diagnosis. In the post, Debi described her symptoms and the struggle of getting tested for the virus. 

"About a month ago my entire home (husband and two teen daughters) got an odd bug – Low grade fever, headaches, sore throat, body aches, ears ringing and dry cough." 

The star says the symptoms seemed to clear up "quickly", only to return and intensify two weeks later.

When she made the decision to get tested for the coronavirus, Debi called up a friend who is a doctor, asking for advice. "He said No, I didn't meet the criteria." 

The actor says this was because she had not recently travelled out of the country and had not been in contact with anyone who has tested positive for the virus. She adds: "I found this kind of CRAZY criteria for a NY'er", saying that she had spent time on the subway and had gone out to places like the theatre and hair salon. 

Debi eventually got tested after another friend recommended a place in her neighbourhood which had test kits available. 

"I went on 3/17. First I was tested for the flu – which was negative. Then they tested me for Covid-19. I was sent home and told to quarantine myself until I had results, which would take 3-7 days (in S. Korea it takes two hours). Well..today is day 5 and I just found out," she wrote. 

In recent days many celebrities, including Idris Elba and Andy Cohen, have come forward with the news that they have contracted Covid-19, sharing their stories and warning people to take precaution.

Several stars have also participated in the #IStayHomeFor challenge, which encourages people to practice social distancing in order to help curb the spread of the virus.