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Biden Leaves White House for First MassNews Since Getting COVID

REHOBOTH, Del. — Ending his most recent COVID-19 isolation, President Joe Biden on Sunday left the White House for the first time since becoming infected with the coronavirus last month, settling in for a reunion with first lady Jill Biden in their home state of Delaware.

His doctor said that the president had tested positive on Saturday and Sunday. He was now able to come out of an extended isolation, which was longer than expected due to the rebound of the virus. “He will safety return to public engagement and presidential travel,” Dr. Kevin O’Connor wrote.

“I’m feeling great,” Biden said before boarding Marine One outside the White House.

It was expected that the Bidens would spend the day at Rehoboth Beach. This popular destination is also a favorite vacation spot.

Biden tested positive in July and began to take the Paxlovid anti-viral medicine. This medication is designed to lower the chance of contracting serious disease from the virus. According to his doctor, Biden’s vital signs remained normal throughout his infection, but he his symptoms included a runny nose, cough, sore throat and body aches.

After isolating for several days, Biden tested negative on July 26 and July 27, when he gave a speech in the Rose Garden, telling Americans they can “live without fear” of the virus if they get booster shots, test themselves for the virus if they become sick and seek out treatments.

Biden, however, was struck with a very rare case of COVID-19 in July and had to be isolated again. Biden occasionally spoke from the White House balcony when he was marking the death of an al Qaida leader, or to announce a report on strong job growth.

He kept testing positive up until Saturday, when his first result was negative. While the President was in isolation at his White House home, the First Lady remained in Delaware.

On Monday, the Bidens will visit Kentucky to see flood damage and to meet families.

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