Paul O’Grady has been struck down coronavirus but says he didn’t have a temperature or much of a cough.
The 64-year-old is the latest celebrity to contract the virus but said although he hasn’t been tested he believes he “most definitely” had Covid-19.
Paul has been self-isolating due to heart problems, but spoke to BBC London presenter Gaby Roslin, and told her he is feeling better. He said: “I’m alright now. Last week I had flu like symptoms. I didn’t have the cough bad, I certainly didn’t have the temperature or anything like that so I just got on with it.
“That was when the heating had gone so it was minus two down here and freezing and I thought someone had got it in for me. I’m fine now.”
When Gavby aasked if he had Covid 19, he said: “Most definitely. That’s knocking about, but there’s also flus and seasonal colds going about so you’ve got to tell yourself and learn the difference.
“The coronavirus – you’d know if you caught that. I lay on the couch with the fire on and the dogs on top of me moaning. When you are lying on the couch dying or you think you are. It was sheer exhaustion like Chris Evans had too.”
Just weeks ago, Paul decided to step down from his BBC Radio 2 show to self-isolate as he has heart problems.
The Lily Savage star has had three heart attacks in the past and his underlying medical condition put him in the high risk group.
Experts have advised that people in these high risk categories should stay indoors.
Paul said that he had to step down from his show but told fans to look after themselves.
He said: “I’d only been back for one show after an absence and I’m off again!” he laughed.
“But I’m one of these people who falls into the category of ‘underlying health problems’ and that’s because I’ve had heart attacks,” he explained.
“I’ve been strongly advised to self-isolate, so that’s exactly what I’m doing. I’m down in the wilds of Kent with a very lively five weeks old puppy, so I’ve got my hands full and I’ve got plenty to do, and I’d just like to say to everybody else who’s self isolating – good luck and keep healthy and look after yourselves.
“And a big thank you to everyone in the NHS for all they’re doing,” he added.
“I’ll speak to you all when all this is finished so take care and once again Paddy, thanks very much and have a good show.”
Paddy McGuinness stepped in to present the show in Paul’s absence.
