Former US president Bill Clinton diagnosed with the flu

Former US president Bill Clinton’s team has revealed his diagnosis after he was taken to hospital to undergo testing.

Former US president Bill Clinton has been diagnosed with the flu and discharged from hospital the day after he was admitted due to a concerning fever.

The 78-yer-old was admitted to Georgetown University Medical Centre in Washington, DC, where he underwent testing and observation, his spokesman told CNN.

“President Clinton was discharged earlier today after being treated for the flu,” his office said in a statement.

“He and his family are deeply grateful for the exceptional care provided by the team at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital and are touched by the kind messages and well wishes he received.

“He sends his warmest wishes for a happy and healthy holiday season to all.”

Clinton, 78, was admitted to the hospital on Monday afternoon for testing and observation after developing a fever.

“The president is fine,” Angel Urena, deputy chief of staff to Mr Clinton, told CNN in an interview at the time, adding the former president is hopeful to be home by Christmas.

Former US president Bill Clinton has been hospitalised with a fever. Picture: AFP

“He remains in good spirits and deeply appreciates the excellent care he is receiving.”

In 2004, at age 58, he underwent a quadruple bypass operation after doctors found signs of extensive heart disease.

He had stents implanted in his coronary artery six years later.

The health scare motivated him to make lifestyle changes, including adopting a vegetarian diet, and he has since spoken publicly about his efforts.

Mr Clinton’s health last made headlines in November 2022 when he tested positive for Covid-19. He said at the time that his symptoms were “mild” and he was “grateful to be vaccinated and boosted.”

Mr Clinton, who led the US for two presidential terms from 1993-2001, is the second-youngest living US president, after 63-year-old Barack Obama.

He was born months after fellow former US president George W. Bush and President-elect Donald Trump.

Though his prosperous time in office was marred by scandals, he has enjoyed a second life in the two decades after his presidency, which has seen him venture into numerous diplomatic and humanitarian causes.

Originally published as Former US president Bill Clinton diagnosed with the flu