US President Joe Biden tests positive for Covid-19

United States President Joe Biden has tested positive for COVID-19, is experiencing “very mild symptoms” and will continue to carry out his duties the White House has said.

Biden, 79, who will isolate at the White House, has been in contact with members of staff and will participate in planned meetings, the president’s Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre announced in a statement on Thursday morning. Pierre says the president is fully vaccinated and has had two booster shots and is #currently taking Paxlovid, an antiviral drug recommended for those at risk of severe illness.

The White House says it will provide a daily update on Biden’s status, and will inform anyone who has been in close contact with the president.