Tom Hanks, who contracted COVID-19, says "I will get vaccinated publicly"

▲Tom Hanks [Image source=AP Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kwon Jae-hee] American Hollywood star Tom Hanks, who contracted the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19), has stepped up to encourage vaccination.

In an interview with NBC on the 22nd (local time), Hanks was asked if he would publicly receive the COVID-19 vaccine, to which he replied, "Of course I will."

He added, "After everyone who truly needs the vaccine has received it, my wife and I will also get vaccinated."

Previously, U.S. leaders and health officials including President-elect Joe Biden, Vice President Mike Pence, Health and Human Services Secretary Alex Azar, and Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases under the National Institutes of Health, publicly received the vaccine to overcome vaccine hesitancy and demonstrate its safety.

Hanks also emphasized adherence to preventive measures such as wearing masks.

He said, "My wife and I contracted COVID-19 and went through a difficult time," adding, "The important thing is that we did not infect others with COVID-19."

He stated that he strictly wears a mask and urged, "If you are an asymptomatic carrier, it is important to wear a mask to prevent transmitting the virus to others."

He also mentioned that he canceled his Christmas family plans for COVID-19 prevention.

Meanwhile, Hanks and his wife Rita Wilson tested positive after visiting Australia in March for a film shoot, received treatment at a local hospital, and have since recovered.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.