US First Lady Jill Biden has tested positive for COVID, the White House has said.

The 71-year-old had tested negative on Monday during a regular testing session, but developed cold-like symptoms that evening.

She tested negative on a rapid antigen test before a PCR test came back positive.

Spokesperson Elizabeth Alexander said that, like husband Joe Biden, the first lady has had two vaccinations and two booster jabs against the disease.

She is experiencing mild symptoms and has been prescribed the antiviral drug Paxlovid.

Mr and Mrs Biden are on holiday in South Carolina. She will isolate there for at least five days, the White House said, and will return home after two consecutive negative tests.

Mr Biden caught the virus last month, but experienced a rebound case days after testing negative, which required a second period of self-isolation.

More on Covid-19

The president was also given Paxlovid, which can reduce hospitalisation and death among patients by 90% if administered within five days of symptoms appearing.

But it is also associated with a higher incidence of rebound infections, where patients test positive again days after the drug has helped them clear the initial infection.

Mr Biden tested negative on Tuesday, the White House said, but will wear a face mask indoors for 10 days, in line with guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

He has returned to work.

You May Also Like
China’s Plan to Spur Growth: A New Slogan for Building Factories

China’s Plan to Spur Growth: A New Slogan for Building Factories

From the top of the government, China is heavily promoting a plan…
France Reacts to Big Far-Right Wins in First Round of Snap Election

France Reacts to Big Far-Right Wins in First Round of Snap Election

For many, France feels like a very different place on Monday. The…
Joe Biden ‘happy to debate’ Donald Trump – as former president responds | US News

Joe Biden ‘happy to debate’ Donald Trump – as former president responds | US News

Joe Biden has said he would be open to debate his presumptive…

Melania Trump says ‘violence is never the answer’ in White House farewell speech

First Lady Melania Trump has advised Americans that “violence is never the…