Advertisement

JK Rowling reveals coronavirus scare

Harry Potter author JK Rowling has taken to Twitter to reveal her probable coronavirus ordeal after she reported experiencing ‘all the symptoms’, though she never took a test.

The world’s bestselling author revealed she has spent two weeks battling what she suspects to be the virus, and has since made a full recovery.

Harry Potter J. K. Rowling at a film premiere looks concerned
J. K. Rowling has revealed a coronavirus scare and the trick that helped her through.y. Photo: Getty Images

“For last 2 weeks I've had all symptoms of C19 [COVID-19],” Rowling wrote, adding: “(tho haven't been tested).”

The 54-year-old took the time to share a video explaining a medical trick she says helps alleviate symptoms, though it should not be used as a replacement to direct medical aide.

“Please watch this doc from Queen’s Hospital explain how to relieve respiratory symptoms,” she wrote alongside the YouTube clip.

“Did this on doc husband's advice. I'm fully recovered & technique helped a lot.”

Queen’s Hospital is a major NHS hospital in London.

Rowling has been married to Neil Murray, an anesthesiologist, since 2001, and reported experiencing all the symptoms of the dreadful illness, and waiting out the experience rather than using a test, eventually bouncing back.

The shared video demonstrates a breathing technique to get air into infected lungs, though if you experience symptoms in Australia you are advised to contact the hotline and be tested.

In places more severely hit like the UK, some are urging people to simply self-isolate with the symptoms unless they deteriorate so as to save tests and medical resources.

The official line in the UK is still to get tested if you have symptoms, though advice has been changing since early March.

Love and support online

Rowling was overwhelmed by an outpouring of love and support from fans and peers alike.

Fifty Shades of Grey writer E L James wrote, “Glad you are fully recovered!”.

Other fans thanked her for the easy, and practical advice.

 J.K. Rowling and doctor husband Neil Murray arrives at the RFK Ripple of Hope Awards at New York Hilton Midtown on December 12, 2019
JK Rowling says she tried the technique on husband Neil Murray's advice. Photo: Getty Images

“Thanks for sharing video,” one man wrote. “I think it will help a lot of people. Get well soon, we need you.”

“So glad you're feeling better!” a fan wrote. “I can't believe you've been on here making us feel better during isolation while going through that! Holy moly. You are the kindest & we can't thank you enough for that, genuinely”

Rowling last week released new Harry potter content to motivate people to stay home.

She sent a touching message of thanks, saying she hoped the video would help people in need.

“I really am completely recovered and wanted to share a technique that’s recommended by doctors, costs nothing, has no nasty side effects but could help you/your loved ones a lot, as it did me,” she wrote. “Stay safe, everyone.”

She’s not the first celebrity to be struck down with the illness, as huge names including Idris Elba, and Tom Hanks are forced to contend with the virus.

Breathing exercises for coronavirus

If you are unwell, or you think you have the symptoms of COVID-19, the Australian Government’s Department of Health advises you to seek medical attention.

There is a national Coronavirus Health Information Line 1800 020 080 which you can call to get advice on your symptoms 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

The video show patients how to best position and exercise their lungs to get air where it needs to be in a helpful addition to existing medical advice in Australia.

Filmed in London’s Queen’s hospital, the video explains and demonstrates the technique that the author says ‘helped her a lot’.

“While you have an active infection you need to get a good amount of air into the bases of your lungs and the only way you are going to do that is by having a technique,” the doctor explains.

“I want you guys to start doing this if you have the infection right from the beginning if you want to do it before you even pick up the infection, good idea.”

“Take five deep breaths in, hold the breath for five seconds, on the sixth deep breath you will take it in and do a big cough, covering your mouth.

“Do this twice and then lay flat on your bed (on your stomach) with a pillow in front of you and taking slightly deeper breaths for the next ten minutes.

“The majority of your lungs is on your back, not on your front, so by lying on your back you're closing off your smaller airways and this is not good during a period of infection, it's very important that you guys understand this.”

Got a story tip or just want to get in touch? Email us at lifestyle.tips@verizonmedia.com.