Joe Biden tests positive for COVID-19 during campaign stop in Las Vegas

President Joe Biden has tested positive for COVID-19 while on a campaign trip in Las Vegas.

Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre announced that Biden, experiencing mild symptoms including general malaise, will return to his home in Delaware for self-isolation while continuing his presidential duties, Caliber.Az reports via US media.

The news was first disclosed by UnidosUS President and CEO Janet Murguía during the group’s convention in Las Vegas, where Biden had to cancel his appearance due to his diagnosis.

Dr. Kevin O’Connor, Biden’s physician, reported that the 81-year-old president presented with upper respiratory symptoms, including a runny nose and non-productive cough. Following the positive test, Biden has begun treatment with the antiviral drug Paxlovid.

Biden had planned to address the UnidosUS event to rally Hispanic voters ahead of the November election but instead departed for Delaware, where he intended to spend a scheduled long weekend at his home in Rehoboth Beach.

The president’s COVID-19 diagnosis occurs amid ongoing scrutiny of his health and stamina following a challenging debate with former President Donald Trump. Concerns have emerged among Democrats about Biden’s ability to withstand the demands of another presidential term. Despite being fully vaccinated and receiving his annual booster dose, Biden tested positive for COVID-19 twice in the summer of 2022.

Health officials have noted recent increases in COVID-19 emergency room visits and hospitalizations, particularly in the southwestern United States, alongside a rise in positive test results nationwide.