Karl Schmid (Photo courtesy of Facebook)

ABC correspondent Karl Schmid has come out as HIV positive after keeping his status secret for a decade.

The Australian-born, Los Angeles-based journalist is known for covering red carpet and gala events, such as the Academy Awards, for ABC7. He also was co-host of Logo’s “Operation: Vacation” from 2013 to 2014.

In a lengthy Facebook post, Schmid opens up about his health and why he was advised to keep his HIV status a secret.

“For 10 years I’ve struggled with ‘Do I or don’t I?’ “Schmid, who is openly gay, writes. “For ten years the stigma and industry professionals have said, ‘Don’t! It’ll ruin you.’ But here’s the thing. I’m me. I’m just like you. I have a big heart and I want to be loved and accepted. I may be on TV from time to time, but at the end of the day I’m just an average guy who wants want we all want. To be accepted and loved by our friends and family and to be encouraged by our peers.”

“I know who I am, I know what I stand for and while in the past I may not have always had clarity, I do now. Love me or hate me, that’s up to you. But, for anyone who has ever doubted themselves because of those scary three letters and one symbol, let me tell you this, you are somebody who matters. Your feelings, your thoughts, your emotions count. And don’t let anybody tell you otherwise. I’m Karl Schmid, and I’m an HIV-positive man!” he continued.

Schmid’s post went viral with more than 500 shares and more than 3,500 likes. The reporter later thanked his fans for their “overwhelming” support.

“Today has been insanely overwhelming. I had NO idea that me sharing something would have such an impact,” Schmid writes. “For those of you who dm’d with your stories THANK YOU.”

Today has been insanely overwhelming. I had NO idea that me sharing something would have such an impact. For those of you who dm’d with your stories THANK YOU. Tonight, I’m hanging out with my best friend and enjoying the talent that is @taylormacnyc in DTLA pic.twitter.com/6X07KVsOaN

— Karl Schmid (@KarlJSchmid) March 25, 2018