French President Emmanuel Macron has tested positive for COVID-19, AFP reported quoting the president’s office on Thursday. 

“The president tested positive for COVID-19 today,” a statement from the presidency said, adding that he was tested for the virus after the “onset of the first symptoms”. 

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In accordance to national regulations, Macron will now “self-isolate for seven days. He will continue to work and carry out his activities remotely,” the presidency said. 

Additionally, Prime Minister Jean Castex will self-isolate after coming in contact with Macron, his office said. Castex has displayed no symptoms but will not go to the French Senate on Thursday to address the government’s strategy to combat the virus. 

Macron is among a number of world leaders to have contracted the infection, along with British Prime Minister Boris Johnson and US President Donald Trump. 

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Earlier this week, France eased restrictions to battle the second wave of coronavirus infections as case numbers surge across the country. 

However, there is still the overnight curfew from 8 pm with restaurants, cafes and theatres continuing to remain closed. 

France has recorded over 59,300 deaths since the onset of the pandemic, official figures have confirmed. 

The country reported over 17,000 new infections on Wednesday, which has raised concern as people shop and travel more intensely ahead of the Christmas holidays.

Like other EU states, France is pinning its hopes on a vaccine to quell the virus and Prime Minister Castex said Wednesday the country will receive around 1.16 million COVID-19 vaccine doses by year end.