Biden Tests Positive for COVID-19, Reportedly Has 'Mild Symptoms'

The White House has revealed that President Biden tested positive for COVID-19 on Thursday morning.  

White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre says the 79-year-old president "is fully vaccinated and twice boosted and experiencing very mild symptoms."

The White House says Biden will continue to carry out the full duties of his office at this time. Jean-Pierre's statement continues: 

"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. 

Consistent with White House protocol for positive COVID cases, which goes above and beyond CDC guidance, he will continue to work in isolation until he tests negative. Once he tests negative, he will return to in-person work."

One of the president's political opponents, Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX) immediately tweeted his prayers for Biden's full recovery.

Today's Quick Start Podcast: AOC's Arrest, China's Warning Signs

"Heidi & I are lifting up President Joe Biden in prayer right now," the Texas senator said. "May God's healing hand be upon him, may Covid pass quickly, and may he have a swift and full recovery."

Heidi & I are lifting up President Joe Biden in prayer right now.

May God’s healing hand be upon him, may Covid pass quickly, and may he have a swift and full recovery.

— Ted Cruz (@tedcruz) July 21, 2022

Biden was vaccinated with the Pfizer COVID vaccine and was most recently boosted on March 30. The White House reports Biden has begun taking Paxlovid, an anti-viral drug also produced by Pfizer, to reduce the severity of COVID symptoms.  

One major question remains unanswered: Where did the president contract COVID-19? He's had a busy travel itinerary as of late, including trips to Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and overseas to Israel and Saudi Arabia. When pressed on where the president contracted the virus, the administration said that's not important.

Jean-Pierre told the media gathered at the White House on Thursday, "Look I don't think that matters, right? I think what matters is we prepared for this moment."

Officials say Biden is experiencing fatigue, a runny nose, and a dry cough, but they say his chance for serious infection is dramatically reduced because he's fully vaccinated.  

White House COVID-19 Coordinator Dr. Ashish Jha said, "Our expectation is he's going to continue to have mild illness – um, and he's going to be monitored for his symptoms."

Still, doctors say a major factor in the president's treatment is his advanced age and he will be closely watched.