Biden posts negative COVID-19 result, says he’s back to work

WASHINGTON — US President Joe Biden has had two negative COVID-19 tests and no longer needs to isolate after recovering from infection, his White House doctor said Wednesday.

"Yesterday evening and then again this morning, he tested NEGATIVE for the SARS-CoV-2 virus by antigen testing," presidential physician Kevin O'Connor wrote in a memorandum, adding that Biden had already completed a course of the Paxlovid therapeutic.

"Given these reassuring factors, the President will discontinue his strict isolation."

The president himself tweeted a photo of his negative result. "Back to the Oval [Office]," he said.

Back to the Oval.

Thanks to Doc for the good care, and to all of you for your support. pic.twitter.com/Cfzn1zAKJF

— President Biden (@POTUS) July 27, 2022

Biden tested positive last Thursday, with his administration saying he was experiencing "mild symptoms" and would carry out his full duties, though with a lighter workload, while isolating.

While now out of isolation, the president will wear a mask for 10 days when around others and continue to test regularly for the virus in case of a "rebound," O'Connor said.

Biden has no fever, the doctor added, noting "his symptoms have been steadily improving, and are almost completely resolved."

Biden, 79, is the oldest person ever in the US presidency but his physician says he is generally in good health. He has been fully vaccinated and received two booster shots against the coronavirus.

White House COVID-19 coordinator Ashish Jha, meanwhile said none of Biden's 17 identified close contacts have so far tested positive for the coronavirus. — Agence France-Presse