US Defense secretary Lloyd positive for COVID for second time

US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said Monday he has tested
positive for COVID-19 and is experiencing mild symptoms and will
quarantine at home. It’s the second time Austin has gotten the
coronavirus, Trend reports citing media.

In a statement, Austin, 69, said his is fully vaccinated and has
received two boosters. He said he’ll quarantine for the next five
days in accordance with CDC guidelines and “will retain all
authorities and plan to maintain my normal work schedule virtually
from home.”

Austin said his last in-person contact with President Joe Biden
was on July 29.

In January, Austin also contracted COVID and had received a
booster in October.

“Now, as in January, my doctor told me that my fully vaccinated
status, including two booster shots, is why my symptoms are less
severe than would otherwise be the case,” Austin said. “I will
continue to consult closely with my doctor in the coming
days.”

He added, “Vaccinations continue to both slow the spread of
COVID-19 and to make its health effects less severe. Vaccination
remains a medical requirement for our workforce, and I continue to
encourage everyone to get fully vaccinated and boosted.”