US President Joe Biden delivers remarks at the former location of the Brayton Point Power Station in Somerset, Massachussets, on July 20, 2022. (Photo by BRENDAN SMIALOWSKI/AFP via Getty Images) WASHINGTON - President Biden tested positive for COVID-19 Thursday morning, the White House said.According to a statement from White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, the president has "very mild" symptoms and is taking Paxlovid, the drug used to treat COVID-19.
Biden is vaccinated against COVID-19 and has had two booster shots."Consistent with CDC guidelines, he will isolate at the White House and will continue to carry out all of his duties fully during that time," the statement said. "He has been in contact with members of the White House staff by phone this morning, and will participate in his planned meetings at the White House this morning via phone and Zoom from the residence."U.S.
health regulators have authorized two pills against COVID-19 that Americans can take at home, developed by Pfizer and Merck.The White House said Biden can return to work when he tests negative.
His last COVID test before Thursday was on Tuesday when he tested negative.RELATED: New ‘Centaurus’ coronavirus variant surfacing in multiple countries"Out of an abundance of transparency, the White House will provide a daily update on the President’s status as he continues to carry out the full duties of the office while in isolation," the White House said..