Partner of Colorado governor taken to hospital for COVID-19

The partner of Colorado Gov. Jared Polis (D) was admitted to the hospital on Sunday after he and Polis both tested positive for COVID-19 late last month. 

The governor’s office said in a Monday statement that Colorado’s first gentleman, Marlon Reis, was “admitted to the hospital following shortness of breath and a worsening cough.”

Reis “has normal oxygen saturation, is in good spirits, and looks forward to returning home soon,” according to the statement. He has not required supplemental oxygen, and he has received dexamethasone for inflammation, as well the drug remdesivir.

Polis has continued to not experience any symptoms since the couple announced that they both tested positive for COVID-19 on Nov. 28.

“The First Gentleman and Governor appreciate all of the kind words and support they have received during this time and continue to urge all Coloradans to do their part to slow the spread of this virus,” Polis’s office said. “That means wearing a mask in public, staying six feet from others, avoiding large gatherings, and washing your hands regularly.”

Polis first shared on Sunday that he personally took his partner to the hospital. 

Tonight First Gentleman Marlon Reis started experiencing slightly worsening cough and shortness of breath. I took him to the hospital for review and treatment. pic.twitter.com/EAH5Ew1AfO

— Governor Jared Polis (@GovofCO) December 7, 2020

Polis has continued his gubernatorial duties remotely since his diagnosis. Last month, he extended a statewide mask mandate in Colorado for an additional 30 days. 

The state has seen a sharp spike in cases since the beginning of the fall. Colorado documented 4,336 COVID-19 cases on Sunday alone, as well as 22 fatalities.

Correction: A previous version of this story referred to Reis as Polis’s husband. They are partners.