David “Doc” Sands Tests Positive for COVID-19 (Novel Coronavirus)
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On Sunday night, David “Doc” Sands became the first popular poker player to publicly reveal that he had contracted COVID-19 (Novel Coronavirus).
Sands followed up his initial tweet with a dozen others going into more detail.
“On Monday evening I was a bit fatigued and started feeling sinus pressure which developed into a severe headache. On Tuesday morning I woke up with one of the worst headaches I've ever had,” Sands explained. “I also had a touch of post-nasal drip and a very occasional (maybe 5x/day) cough. But I didn't think I had COVID-19 since I didn't have a fever or shortness of breath, which in addition to a cough are the two primary symptoms according to the CDC website.”
“I called my Dr. on Tuesday, but he said I didn't need to get tested since I had been isolated with my family ... and hadn't come in contact with anyone known to have the virus."
Sands continued: “I called my Dr. on Tuesday, but he said I didn't need to get tested since I had been isolated with my family for the prior 5 days and hadn't come in contact with anyone known to have the virus. By Wednesday my headache had improved to a mild, dull ache similar to what I get during a bad allergy day. I could perceive a small bit of flem in my throat which I would clear by deliberately coughing.”
Because he had a “wet” cough as opposed to a “dry” one, Sands wasn’t too concerned it was COVID-19, but after his symptoms continued into Thursday he requested a test from his doctor, who conducted it from Sands’ car at the medical office. Two days later, he received the news that the test had come back positive.
“I still have a mild headache and a touch of flem or ‘heaviness’ in my throat. Otherwise I am totally fine,” Sands shared while also saying the diagnosis didn’t prevent him from going on a six-mile walk with his wife, who is also exhibiting symptoms and will be tested this week.
Where Did It Come From?
As for how he got the virus, Sands isn’t sure and took precautions like much of the poker world.
“I have no idea how I got the virus. I discontinued using my gym a week before experiencing my first symptom,” he wrote. “I wore gloves and often a mask during the few times I was in public in the week preceding my symptoms, and I practiced what would be generally regarded as extreme hygiene (shoes off in garage, all clothes off and in washing machine immediately upon entering house. Immediate shower & handwashing, no touching face, etc). I am someone who has been in the ‘paranoid’ camp regarding this virus for 6+ weeks. I sounded the alarm and got my parents out of the Bay Area 3 weeks ago when most though I was crazy.”
"Kids could have brought it home from school, could have gotten it grocery shopping. We simply don’t know."
For now, Sands and his family are continuing their quarantine while he recovers. He was also willing to answer questions on social media,
Eric Haber was one follower to ask a question: “How the F do you think you got it? You have to have some idea?”
Sands reiterated: “No clue. Kids could have brought it home from school, could have gotten it grocery shopping. We simply don’t know.”
Poker World Responds
Not surprisingly, fellow poker players and personalities from around the world offered their support for Sands including Jennifer Tilly, as well as Poker Hall of Famers Erik Seidel and Todd Brunson.
Click here to see the entire Twitter thread regarding Sands’ COVID-19 diagnosis.
PR & Media Manager for PokerNews, Podcast host & 2013 WSOP Bracelet Winner.
