Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump have tested positive to COVID-19 after the president’s close aide Hope Hicks tested positive for the coronavirus.
The US President announced the news on Twitter, saying he and his wife “will get through this TOGETHER!”
Earlier, Mr Trump said he and his wife would begin quarantining while they awaited the results of their coronavirus tests, after Hope Hicks, a senior White House adviser who traveled with the president this week, tested positives.
Tonight, @FLOTUS and I tested positive for COVID-19. We will begin our quarantine and recovery process immediately. We will get through this TOGETHER!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) October 2, 2020
White House doctor Sean Conley issued a statement saying Mr Trump would continue to carry out duties “without disruption” despite contracting the virus.
“This evening I received confirmation that both President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump have tested positive for the SARS-CoV-2 virus,” he said.
“The President and First Lady are both well at this time, and they plan to remain at home within the White House during their convalescence.
“The White House medical team and I will maintain a vigilant watch, and I appreciate the support provided by some of our country’s greatest medical professionals and institutions.
“Rest assured I expect the President to continue carrying out his duties without disruption while recovering, and I will keep you updated on any future developments.”
Mr Trump’s press secretary Kayleigh McEnany took to Twitter to say the “strength of the entire country” was with the President and his wife.
“America stands united. Our country stands strong. Your President will continue to put the People first!,” she wrote.❐
