Dr. Mike Saag, a physician at UAB’s Division of Infectious Disease who has participated in efforts to educate the public about COVID-19, has tested positive for the disease caused by the novel coronavirus, UAB President Ray Watts said Tuesday night in an email addressed to the “UAB community.”

Watts’ letter said the infectious disease expert wanted his case to be an example “of the COVID-19 reality and the importance of practicing aggressive social distancing."

Saag believes he was exposed to COVID-19 while visiting family in New York City, Watts said, and that both the doctor and UAB “are taking precautionary measures to promote a safe environment," adding that UAB will work with the Jefferson County Health Department to identify and notify anyone who may have been exposed to Saag’s case.

Saag has been an invaluable resource to the public as COVID-19 was declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization, answering AL.com reader’s public health and general questions about the novel coronavirus:

COVID-19: Answering reader questions with Dr. Michael Saag We’re answering your questions with UAB’s infectious disease Dr. Michael Saag about the virus, when to go out, and more. Posted by al.com on Tuesday, March 17, 2020

Aside from his work with the infectious disease division, Saag is also the founder of UAB’s 1917 Clinic, the largest HIV clinic in Alabama.

Watts said anyone exhibiting COVID-19 symptoms should contact their health care provider before going to a doctor and to stay home if they feel sicl.