US President Joe Biden tests positive for COVID-19 after Las Vegas rally, has mild symptoms

The White House stated that the US President is fully vaccinated and has also received the COVID-19 booster dose.

By TVN Bureau Jul 18, 2024, 08:09 IST

US President Joe Biden has tested positive for COVID-19, as reported by the White House. Biden is experiencing mild symptoms of COVID-19. An official statement said, "Biden is returning to Delaware, where he will self-isolate and continue to work." The 81-year-old Joe Biden tested positive for COVID on Wednesday, July 17. Just a day before, he attended a National Convention in Las Vegas.

At this campaign rally in Las Vegas, Biden heavily criticized his rival, Donald Trump. He condemned the policies created during Trump's tenure and the increasing gun violence in the country. The White House stated that the US President is fully vaccinated and has also received the COVID-19 booster dose. The most recent booster dose was administered in September 2023. Despite this, he has contracted COVID. However, his symptoms are quite mild.

What Did Joe Biden Say About Testing Positive for COVID?

President Joe Biden announced on the social media platform X that he has tested positive for COVID. He said, "I tested positive for COVID-19 this afternoon, but I'm feeling good and thank you to all the well-wishers. I will be isolating myself during recovery and will continue to work for the American people during this time." In another tweet, Biden mentioned that he had fallen ill.

Biden's Health Deteriorated After the Rally

The President's doctor revealed that Biden had respiratory symptoms, including a runny nose and a cough. In a note provided by White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, it was stated, "He was feeling well until the first event of the day, but his condition worsened afterward. A COVID-19 test was conducted, and the results came back positive. The President will self-isolate according to CDC guidelines."

When Was Biden Previously Infected with COVID?

Joe Biden was first infected with COVID in July 2022. In the following days, he showed symptoms of COVID, requiring him to self-isolate a second time. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there has been a recent increase in COVID-19 cases in the country. Recent data shows that in the week ending July 6, there was a 23.5% increase in COVID cases compared to the previous week.