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Lloyd Austin, the US Defense Secretary, has tested positive for COVID-19. Austin stated he was suffering moderate symptoms while quarantined at home in a series of tweets. Austin also stated that he intends to participate electronically in crucial meetings and conversations in the following week “to the extent practicable.”
In suitable circumstances, he said, Deputy Secretary Kathleen Hicks would represent him.
I tested positive this morning for COVID-19. I requested the test today after exhibiting symptoms while at home on leave. My symptoms are mild, and I am following my physician’s directions. 1/7
— Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III (@SecDef) January 3, 2022
According to Austin’s statement, he met US Vice President Joe Biden on December 21, more than a week before he started experiencing symptoms, and he tested negative the next morning.
I tested positive this morning for COVID-19. I requested the test today after exhibiting symptoms while at home on leave. My symptoms are mild, and I am following my physician’s directions. 1/7
— Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III (@SecDef) January 3, 2022
“All persons with whom I have been into contact during the previous week have been traced and tested by my team.”
Austin, 68, claimed he was completely vaccinated and had a booster shot in October. He claimed he sought a test on Sunday morning after having symptoms while on leave at home, and that if the results came back positive, he expected to stay in quarantine for five days, according to CDC standards.
“Immunizations are both safe and effective, and they will continue to be a medical requirement for our troops.” I continue to recommend that everyone who is eligible for a booster shot do so. He explained, “This is still a readiness issue.”
In October, Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, another member of Biden’s cabinet, was diagnosed with COVID-19.
