Joe Biden has tested positive for COVID-19 again in what doctors say may be a “rebound” infection.
The 79-year-old US president “has not experienced any recurrence of symptoms and continues to feel quite well,” said White House physician Dr. Kevin O’Connor.
Biden also tested positive nine days ago, on July 21, when he was said to be “experiencing very mild symptoms.”
The second confirmation of the virus is believed to be a “rebound” experienced by some patients, Dr O’Connor said.
It’s something patients who have been treated with an antiviral drug called Paxlovid, the drug the president received, can experience.
In a tweet, Biden said that two positive tests in a row can happen to a “small minority of people.”
He added: “I have no symptoms but I will be self-isolating for the safety of everyone around me.
“I’m still at work and will be back on the road soon.”
The president had tested negative for the past four days, Dr. O’Connor said.
Given Mr. Biden’s lack of symptoms, there are no plans to restart treatment, the doctor added.
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0:22 July 21: ‘Keep the faith’: Biden on his diagnosis
Biden’s schedule includes a trip to Michigan on Tuesday to promote new legislation to boost the semiconductor industry, a visit announced earlier Saturday.
After his first positive test, the White House said the president was continuing to perform his duties “to the full.”
Several members of the Biden administration and other prominent figures in Washington have tested positive for the virus in recent months, including Vice President Kamala Harris, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Attorney General Merrick Garland.