US President Joe Biden has tested positive for COVID-19 once again, just days after recovering from an initial infection. The White House confirmed the development on Saturday, attributing it to a rare "rebound" effect linked to the antiviral drug Paxlovid.
"The President has experienced no reemergence of symptoms and remains feeling well," said White House physician Dr. Kevin O'Connor in a statement. He noted that Biden, 79, will resume strict isolation measures while continuing to carry out his duties remotely from the White House residence.
What is a COVID rebound case?
Medical experts explain that some patients treated with Paxlovid may test positive again 2-8 days after initially recovering. The phenomenon remains uncommon, occurring in less than 10% of cases according to recent studies.
The President first tested positive on July 21st and completed a five-day course of Paxlovid before testing negative earlier this week. His sudden positive result on Saturday came during routine testing ahead of planned travel to Delaware.
How this affects Biden's schedule
The positive test forces cancellation of Biden's planned trip to his home state, where he was expected to reunite with First Lady Jill Biden. All in-person events have been postponed until he tests negative again.
White House officials emphasize that the President continues working remotely, with plans to sign major legislation electronically if needed. His doctors report only mild residual symptoms from the initial infection, primarily a slight cough.
Broader implications
This case highlights the unpredictable nature of COVID-19, even among vaccinated individuals. Biden, who is fully vaccinated and twice-boosted, represents one of the highest-profile rebound cases to date.
Public health experts stress that rebound cases don't indicate treatment failure, and Paxlovid remains effective at preventing severe outcomes. The White House says Biden's experience underscores the importance of continued vigilance against the virus.
