Ohio Congressmen Tim Ryan & Bob Latta Test Positive For COVID-19

This post was updated on 9/21/21 at 9:45 a.m.

Youngstown-area Rep. Tim Ryan has COVID-19, according to an announcement he made via Twitter on Monday. 

The Ohio Democratic congressman said he became infected with COVID-19 even though he is vaccinated, and he credited the vaccine for his mild symptoms. 

"I’m grateful to have the protection of a safe and effective vaccine — and I know without it, this illness could be much, much worse," Ryan tweeted.

U.S. Rep. Tim Ryan announced he has COVID-19 on Twitter. [@RepTimRyan / Twitter]

Across the aisle, fellow U.S. Rep. Bob Latta (R-OH) also tested positive for COVID-19. He made the announcement on Twitter Monday evening.

Latta said he is vaccinated and has no symptoms. He got tested because someone he was around tested positive.

“I am following CDC guidance and will be quarantining. During this time, I will still be working to represent #OH5 from my home,” Latta tweeted. “Even when vaccinated, it is important to remain vigilant against COVID-19 and to follow CDC guidance.”

Ryan used his tweet to urge others to get vaccinated and wear masks to stop COVID-19 spread, and he thanked Mercy Health for treating him. 

"What we have learned over the last year and a half is that we are in this together, and I urge all Ohioans to help us crush this pandemic by wearing a mask and getting vaccinated so that we can get back to normal," he tweeted. 

Ryan will continue to work by voting remotely until he can safely return to Congress, according to a press release. 

Ryan is quarantining in his home in Howland, Ohio and following the medical advice of his doctor, according to the release. Latta is doing the same, at his home in Ohio's 5th Congressional District, according to his tweet. 

Ryan is currently running for Senate to succeed Sen. Rob Portman.