Jill Biden, the First Lady of the United States, recently tested positive for COVID-19 and is experiencing mild symptoms. She will follow a five-day isolation period as part of the health guidance provided by the White House communications team.
According to Communications Director Elizabeth Alexander, the First Lady began showing symptoms in the afternoon and subsequently took at least one test. An initial antigen test yielded a negative result, but a later PCR test returned a positive result, confirming infection. President Joe Biden had a similar timeline of illness earlier in the month, and his situation helped shape the current guidance for households facing breakthrough cases and rebound effects after Paxlovid treatment.
Jill Biden is reported to be fully vaccinated and up to date with her vaccines, including two booster shots. She is receiving Paxlovid for treatment, and her medical care follows the same five-day isolation protocol used for adults who test positive and have mild symptoms. The household will adhere to isolation guidelines until there are two consecutive negative tests, which is the standard benchmark for ending isolation in many guidance scenarios.
At present, Jill Biden is staying at a private residence in South Carolina, a location the Biden family has used for vacations. The plan is to remain there while her test results are monitored and until a pair of consecutive negative tests are confirmed. The White House has emphasized that the health decisions are guided by medical advice and public health recommendations, with the goal of protecting family members and the broader community.
The news of Jill Biden’s infection follows closely after a similar episode involving President Biden, who tested positive around mid-Jate July and again later in the month. Officials described a rebound phenomenon in which some patients treated with Paxlovid may experience a temporary return of positive tests after an initial improvement. After a second isolation period, the president was reported to have tested negative and resumed official duties by early August.
Both President and Mrs. Biden had travels planned in the late summer, including trips arranged to spend time with family in the South. In addition, the administration had public business on the schedule, with the President expected to sign new legislation related to economic policy later in the day. The events highlight ongoing vigilance as leaders and their families navigate health considerations during the broader national public health context.
Public health officials continue to advise consistent testing, careful monitoring of symptoms, and adherence to isolation and treatment guidelines to reduce transmission. The situation underscores the importance of staying up to date with vaccines and boosters, as well as the need to be prepared for potential changes in health status among household members during periods of community spread. Official updates emphasize health and safety, aiming to minimize disruption while protecting those at higher risk and maintaining essential governance activities under safe conditions. (Citation: White House communications team; health guidance statements provided to the public)