US President Joe Biden tested positive for COVID-19 on Wednesday, the White House confirmed. Biden, who was in Las Vegas delivering speeches, is experiencing mild symptoms according to White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre.
Despite the diagnosis, Biden will continue to fulfill his presidential duties while isolating at his home in Delaware. Jean-Pierre assured the public that Biden, who is vaccinated and boosted, will receive regular health updates.
Biden boarded Air Force One in Las Vegas around 6:30 p.m. ET without wearing a mask, according to reports. The president’s doctor noted that Biden developed a runny nose and a “non-productive cough” Wednesday afternoon. Although he felt fine during his first event of the day, a COVID-19 test later returned positive.
The president’s symptoms remain mild, with normal temperature and respiratory rates and a 97% pulse oximetry reading. He has already received his first dose of Paxlovid and will be isolating at his Rehoboth home.
Biden had been scheduled to speak at the UnidosUS Annual Conference in Las Vegas and give an interview at the Original Lindo Michoácan Restaurant. UnidosUS President Janet Murguia announced Biden’s positive test to the conference attendees, expressing his deep disappointment at not being able to join them. Despite his absence, Biden reassured everyone that he would not be deterred by the virus.
Biden, 81, faces increasing pressure from fellow Democrats to withdraw from the presidential race against Republican nominee Donald Trump. Concerns about his fitness to campaign intensified after a recent debate performance. However, Biden has consistently defended his health and his decision to stay in the race. In a recent interview with BET, he mentioned that he might reconsider his candidacy if a medical condition arose.
This marks the second time Biden has tested positive for COVID-19, the first being in July 2022. Despite the setback, the president remains committed to his responsibilities and to maintaining transparency about his health status.
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