Biden tests negative, will end COVID isolation

EuroActiv Politico News

President Joe Biden tested negative for COVID on Tuesday evening and Wednesday morning, his personal physician announced Wednesday, bringing to an apparent end the president’s brush with the virus.

Biden, who first tested positive for COVID late last week, will make his first public appearance since his diagnosis later Wednesday morning when he delivers remarks from the White House’s Rose Garden.

Wary of the potential for a “rebound” infection suffered by some patients who, like the president, were treated with the antiviral Paxlovid, Kevin O’Connor said Biden would increase his testing cadence in the coming days. He will also continue to wear a mask for 10 days whenever he is around other people.

In a tweet Wednesday morning, Biden posted a picture of a negative COVID test and thanked his doctor for providing daily care: “Back to the Oval. Thanks to Doc for the good care, and to all of you for your support.”

During his appearance, Biden will speak about his experience with COVID, highlighting his administration’s work to mitigate the virus amid the ongoing pandemic, a White House official said.

Since contracting the virus on Friday, the president has made several virtual appearances at meetings, often accompanied by a hoarse voice and slight cough. Throughout his illness, the White House maintained that Biden never skipped a beat, working eight-hour days despite the symptoms.