US President Joe Biden cancels speech amid major health update

The White House has made an announcement about Joe Biden’s health, after the 81-year-old president was forced to cancel a campaign appearance today.

President Biden has cancelled an appearance after testing positive for Covid.

The 81-year-old tested positive following his first event in Las Vegas and is experiencing mild symptoms, according to the White House.

US President Joe Biden has reportedly tested positive for COVID-19. (Photo by Kent Nishimura / AFP)

“The President presented this afternoon with upper respiratory symptoms, to include rhinorhea (runny nose) and nonproductive cough, with general malaise,” a note from Mr Biden’s doctor provided by the White House read.

“He felt okay for his first event of the day, but given that he was not feeling better, point of care testing for COVID-19 was conducted, and the results were positive for the COVID-19 virus.”

White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said Mr Biden is vaccinated and “will be returning to Delaware where he will self-isolate and will continue to carry out all of his duties fully during that time”.

Mr Biden was expected to speak at the UnidosUS conference in Las Vegas on Wednesday night, US time.

“I was just on the phone with President Biden. And he shared his deep disappointment at not being able to join us this afternoon. The president has been at many events as we all know and he just tested positive for Covid,” the president and CEO of UnidosUS Janet Murguía told attendees.

In a recent interview with Black Entertainment Television, President Biden addressed concerns about his candidacy in the upcoming election.

He appeared resolute and self-assured, dismissing suggestions of withdrawing from the race and reaffirming his commitment to continue despite initial plans to serve as a transitional leader.

However, he added he will only step down if a doctor was to diagnose a serious medical condition.

US President Joe Biden has reportedly tested positive for COVID-19. (Photo by Kent Nishimura / AFP)

Originally published as US President Joe Biden cancels speech amid major health update