Exclusive: Viraf Patell and fiance Saloni Khanna test positive for COVID-19, in home quarantine

When we spoke to Viraf Patell last, the actor told us that he refrained from travelling to Pune to meet his parents on Navroz due to the rising cases of coronavirus in the state. Now the actor reveals that he and his fiance Saloni Khanna tested positive for COVID-19 yesterday (March 24). The coupe is doing fine and is quarantining together in their Andheri residence.The couple got engaged in the month of February.

^{Viraf PatellThe actor also shared the news of him testing positive for coronavirus on his Instagram handle:https://www.instagram.com/p/CM16kl1lXQ1/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_linkhttps://www.instagram.com/p/CM16kl1lXQ1/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading}




Speaking exclusively to us, Viraf, who is all set to make his big Bollywood debut with 'Koi Jaane Na', says, “Well, it just goes to show that you can take all the precautions of wearing a mask, sanitising, social distancing, but yet you may still find yourself susceptible to the virus. I would just urge folks to be extra cautious and ensure their own safety.”

^{Viraf Patell and Saloni KhannaPic: Instagram/@virafpp}
The actor tells us that his symptoms are mild now, and he and Saloni are finding strength in each other while quarantining together. “I did have a fever on the first two-three days, but it is gone now. There is just a sense of dullness and lack of smell. Saloni my partner has also tested positive, but we have each other for our quarantine. Saloni seems to have fought the symptoms better than me so she gets to make chai for us,” says Viraf, adding, “I was particularly touched by my neighbours. Each one of them reached out personally and offered all kinds of moral and domestic support.”
The actor is grateful to the BMC authorities, who were quick to respond. “The BMC authorities were also prompt, precise, and sensitive in their response. They had our residence sanitised as well. I think they are doing a great job of this Herculean task,” he adds.

In the past few days, an increasing number of actors including Aamir Khan, R Madhavan, Manoj Bajpayee, among others, have tested positive for COVID-19. While the production houses are taking all precautions on sets, the rising number of celebs contracting the virus, is alarming. “It seems cases are on the rise in general, not sure it’s fair to say actors are only the community increasingly testing positive,” says Viraf, adding, “But yes, actors are required to remove their masks between action and cut. As an actor, you’re also exposed to and are in close proximity to other actors, makeup artists, and costume designers. Yet, I would consider everybody on sets equally vulnerable."

On a parting note, the 'Mahi Way' actor urges, “Those who have no other option but to step out for work, make sure you don't forget to wear your mask!”