President Joe Biden has tested positive for COVID-19, resulting in the cancellation of his speaking engagement at the UnidosUS annual conference, according to Janet Murguía, the organization’s president and CEO. This is his third infection in 2 years.
“We appreciate very much his wanting to have been here,” Murguía announced from the podium where President Biden was expected to speak.
White House Confirms Mild Symptoms
The White House confirmed that President Biden has tested positive for COVID-19. Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre stated that the president, who is “vaccinated and boosted,” is experiencing mild symptoms.
“The White House will provide regular updates on the President’s status as he continues to carry out the full duties of the office while in isolation,” Jean-Pierre said in a statement to the press.
Medical Update on President Biden
According to the president’s doctor, Biden presented with upper respiratory symptoms, including a runny nose and a non-productive cough, along with general malaise. Despite initially feeling well enough for his first event of the day, subsequent testing for COVID-19 returned positive results.
“His symptoms remain mild. His respiratory rate is normal at 16, his temperature is normal at 97.8, and his pulse oximetry is normal at 97%. The President has received his first dose of Paxlovid. He will be self-isolating at his home in Rehoboth,” the doctor’s statement noted.
President Biden’s Comments and Previous Infection
As President Biden boarded Air Force One to return to Delaware, he told reporters, “I feel good.” He was not wearing a mask as he boarded the plane.
President Biden last tested positive for COVID-19 two years ago. The latest positive test comes amid a surge in cases, with health officials reporting increases in emergency room visits and hospitalizations due to the virus.
