This marks Biden’s second bout with the virus since July 2022, occurring at a politically sensitive moment as he prepares to host world leaders for the NATO anniversary celebrations. White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre confirmed all NATO planning meetings will shift to secure video conferencing, with Vice President Harris standing by to assume any in-person responsibilities should Biden’s condition worsen. The timing raises fresh concerns about the president’s age and health just four months before the election, though Biden appeared determined in his message, quipping: “This isn’t my first rodeo with COVID – I’ll be back on the trail before you can say ‘malarkey.'”

Medical experts are closely monitoring the situation given Biden’s classification as a “geriatric patient,” with Johns Hopkins epidemiologist Dr. Marty Makary noting “even mild cases can present complications at his age.” The White House physician confirmed Biden has been prescribed Paxlovid and will undergo cardiac monitoring as a precaution. Meanwhile, Republican leaders including Donald Trump Jr. immediately seized on the news, tweeting “Sleepy Joe can’t even stay awake to COVID” – a remark swiftly condemned by bipartisan figures.

The administration has initiated full contact tracing, with First Lady Jill Biden (who tested negative) canceling her planned literacy event in Detroit. As the president begins his isolation in the White House residence, historians note the eerie parallel to when then-candidate Biden was forced to quarantine during the 2020 campaign – a moment that ultimately showcased his ability to govern remotely. This latest health challenge comes as polls show voters remain deeply concerned about the president’s fitness for office, ensuring this diagnosis will dominate news cycles through the weekend.