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Celebrities get virus tests, raising concerns of inequality

Posted at 10:35 AM, Mar 19, 2020
and last updated 2020-03-19 12:35:32-04

Celebrities, politicians and professional athletes faced a backlash this week as several revealed that they had been tested for the coronavirus, even when they didn’t have symptoms.

That’s fueling a perception that the wealthy and famous have been able to jump to the head of the line to get tested while others have been turned away.

But the concerns over preferential treatment underscore a fundamental truth about inequalities baked into the American health care system — those with financial means can often receive a different level of service.

Several high-profile athletes tested positive for the virus, including Brooklyn Nets' Kevin Durant. He is among the four Brooklyn Nets who have tested positive for the new coronavirus.

A backlash roiled across social media Wednesday, as several celebrities and professional athletes revealed that they had been tested for the coronavirus, even when they didn't have a fever or other tell-tale symptoms.