Brookhaven Mayor Joe Cox has been admitted to the hospital as he battles COVID-19.

Cox tested positive approximately two weeks ago and has been in isolation since his test. Friday, however, Cox was admitted to the intensive care unit of King’s Daughters Medical Center in Brookhaven.

In a social media post Friday afternoon, Cox said he and his wife Angie “appreciate your continued thoughts and prayers.”

A statement from the City of Brookhaven said Cox “is in regular communication with our exceptional city staff and officials to ensure the seamless operation of our city.”

The post continues:

“COVID-19 is not a hoax. It is a very real and highly contagious respiratory disease easily spread from person to person. There is currently no approved vaccine or antiviral treatment for this disease, which is all the more reason for everyone, not just a few, to follow all preventive measures to help protect yourself, as well as family, friends, co-workers and neighbors.”

The post closes with a plea for prayers for healing and a full recovery for the mayor.