Syracuse mayoral candidate Khalid Bey announced Monday that he has tested positive for COVID-19.

Bey said he has been in quarantine since August 9.

This spring, he won the Democratic primary for mayor in a close contest with fellow Common Councilor Michael Greene.

Bey said he wasn't vaccinated due to a medical reason, but his doctor has since cleared him for the vaccine once his case has passed.

In a statement, Bey said "the vaccine will save lives and protect our friends and neighbors - especially those who are immunocompromised or are too young to receive the vaccine. It’s as simple as that."