Arizona state lawmaker off ventilator amid coronavirus fight

PHOENIX - An Arizona lawmaker who was on a ventilator at a Maryland hospital’s intensive care unit ill with COVID-19 is now breathing on his own, his wife announced on Oct. 8.

The developments came after Democratic Rep. Lorenzo Sierra of Avondale spent several days unable to breathe without the mechanical device.

“Miracles do happen,” his wife, Rhonda Cagle, tweeted Thursday. “Still critical, but crossed a milestone. Told him I love him. “I love you more,” he replied; his usual response.”

She thanked God and asked for continued prayers.

Sierra and Cagle were visiting family in Washington when they both fell ill. He went to a Washington hospital on Sunday and was transferred to Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore on Monday.

MAP: Arizona Coronavirus cases by zip code

Cagle and Sierra tested negative before leaving for Washington and took extensive precautions but still got sick, Cagle wrote on Facebook.

Most people experience mild or moderate symptoms with the coronavirus, such as fever and cough that clear up in two to three weeks. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia and death.

Sierra is the third Arizona lawmaker to be diagnosed with COVID-19.

Continuing Coverage

In order to protect yourself from a possible infection, the CDC recommends: 

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
• Stay home when you are sick.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a cloth face cover when around others
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
• Monitor your health daily