Vikings infection control officer tests positive for COVID-19

Eric Sugarman, the Minnesota Vikings' head trainer who doubles as the team's infection control officer, tested positive for COVID-19, the club announced Monday.

The Vikings said they followed team protocol for sanitizing their facility and notified any team personnel who may have been in close contact with Sugarman. The trainer hasn't had any recent contact with players, and there haven't been any other COVID-19 cases identified within the front office, added the Vikings.

"I have an immense amount of pride in the effort I have personally put forth to protect the NFL family, the Minnesota Vikings organization, and our community with thoughtfulness and decision-making based on the current science over the last four months," Sugarman said. "I am humble to be serving in that capacity as it has been some of the most rewarding work of my career."

Sugarman helped construct the Vikings' Infectious Disease Emergency Plan, which must be submitted before the season starts. The Vikings are one of 12 teams whose plan is still awaiting approval from the NFL Players Association.

We have now approved the Infectious Disease Emergency Plans (IDER) for 20 clubs: https://t.co/QDpwuWTJdV pic.twitter.com/FgmX0Wog92

- NFLPA (@NFLPA) July 27, 2020

Sugarman said he tested positive along with members of his family, and their symptoms have been mild so far.

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