Biden Covid: President Tests Positive for COVID-19 with Mild Symptoms, Will Self-Isolate in Delaware

President Biden has tested positive for COVID-19 and is experiencing mild symptoms, according to a statement released by the White House on Wednesday. The announcement came after Biden attended an event in Las Vegas, part of his campaign efforts to rally Hispanic voters ahead of the November election. Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre confirmed that the president, who is vaccinated and boosted, will be returning to Delaware where he will self-isolate while continuing to fulfill his duties.

The diagnosis was initially revealed by UnidosUS President and CEO Janet Murguía during the group’s annual conference in Las Vegas. Murguía informed attendees that Biden had expressed his deep disappointment at not being able to attend the event due to his positive COVID-19 test.

Dr. Kevin O’Connor, the president’s physician, detailed Biden’s symptoms in a note, stating that he presented with upper respiratory symptoms, including a runny nose and non-productive cough, along with general malaise. After testing positive, Biden was prescribed the antiviral drug Paxlovid and has already taken his first dose.

Despite his diagnosis, Biden appeared in good spirits as he gingerly boarded Air Force One, telling reporters, “I feel good.” He was not wearing a mask as he walked onto the plane.

This marks the second time Biden has tested positive for COVID-19. The first occurrence was in July 2022, followed by a rare “rebound” infection shortly after he was cleared from isolation.

The news of Biden’s positive test has come at a critical time in his reelection campaign. The president had been scheduled to deliver remarks at the UnidosUS Annual Conference as part of his efforts to engage with the Latino community, a crucial voter base for the upcoming election. His absence from the event underscores the ongoing challenges posed by COVID-19, even as the pandemic has been officially declared over since May 2023.

The White House has assured that Biden will continue to carry out his duties while in isolation, providing regular updates on his health status. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported recent upticks in emergency room visits and hospitalizations due to COVID-19, particularly in the southwestern U.S., highlighting the virus’s continued impact.

Biden’s positive test comes amid growing concerns within the Democratic Party about his health and capability to serve another term. A recent AP-NORC poll found that nearly two-thirds of Democrats believe Biden should step aside and allow another candidate to run. The president, however, remains steadfast in his decision to continue his campaign, asserting that there is no indication he cannot get the job done.

The White House will continue to monitor Biden’s condition and provide updates as necessary. In the meantime, the president will remain in Delaware, working remotely and adhering to CDC guidelines for isolation.