President Joe Biden tested positive for COVID-19 during his trip to Las Vegas on Wednesday, experiencing mild symptoms such as “general malaise,” according to the White House.
Isolation and Continued Duties
Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre announced that Biden will return to his home in Delaware, where he will self-isolate while continuing to perform his presidential duties. Unidos US President and CEO Janet Murguía initially shared the news at the organization’s convention in Las Vegas, explaining that Biden could not attend due to his positive test.
Health Status and Treatment
Dr. Kevin O’Connor, the president’s physician, noted that Biden showed symptoms including a runny nose and a non-productive cough. Following his positive COVID-19 test, Biden began taking the antiviral medication Paxlovid and has already received his first dose.
Changes to Schedule
Biden had planned to address the Unidos event in Las Vegas to engage Hispanic voters before the upcoming November election. Instead, he left for Delaware to spend a long weekend at his Rehoboth Beach residence. As he boarded Air Force One, Biden, who was not wearing a mask, told reporters, “I feel good.”
Earlier Activities
Before his diagnosis, Biden visited the Original Lindo Michoacan restaurant in Las Vegas, where he greeted diners and participated in an interview with Univision.