New Delhi/Washington, March 19 (TIWN) Authorities in New York City are exploring the possibility of converting hotels into hospitals for patients, other than those infected by the novel coronavirus.

Reps. Mario Diaz-Balart, R-Fla., and Ben McAdams, D-Utah, are the first two members of Congress who have said they tested positive for COVID-19.  Diaz-Balart was the first to make the announcement Wednesday. His office said in a statement that after votes on Friday, he self-quarantined in Washington, D.C., and decided not to return home because his wife has a pre-existing condition.  Saturday evening, Diaz-Balart "developed symptoms, including a fever and a headache," and on Wednesday, he learned he had tested positive for COVID-19, his office said.  "I want everyone to know that I am feeling much better," Diaz-Balart said in a statement. "However, it is important that everyone take this extremely seriously and follow CDC guidelines in order to avoid getting sick and mitigate the spread of this virus."