President Joe Biden tested positive for COVID-19 and is experiencing mild symptoms, the White House confirmed.
Biden, 79, is fully vaccinated and has received two booster shots. The president began taking Paxlovid, an antiviral therapy granted an emergency use authorization (EUA) by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) late last year. Biden is isolating in the White House and will continue to carry out all of his duties fully during that time. He will continue to work in isolation until he tests negative, the White House announced.
Biden’s infection comes at a time when COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations are surging once again in the United States. The dominant strain of the virus is currently BA.5, a subvariant of the Omicron variant of the virus and the most contagious strain yet.
The president published a video via Twitter on Thursday, July 21, updating the public on his health status.
“I guess you heard, this morning I tested positive for Covid," Biden said. "But I’ve been double vaccinated, double boosted. Symptoms are mild and I really appreciate your inquires and concerns. But I’m doing well, getting a lot of work done. Going to continue to get it done and in the meantime, thanks for your concern and keep the faith. It’s gonna be OK."
Amy joined TriMed Media as a Senior Writer for HealthExec after covering home care for three years. When not writing about all things healthcare, she fulfills her lifelong dream of becoming a pirate by sailing in regattas and enjoying rum. Fun fact: she sailed 333 miles across Lake Michigan in the Chicago Yacht Club "Race to Mackinac."