Second gentleman Doug Emhoff, Vice President Kamala Harris’ husband, tested positive for COVID-19 on Saturday, his office announced.
“Yesterday, the Second Gentleman tested positive for COVID-19 after experiencing mild symptoms. He is fully vaccinated and three times boosted,” Liza Acevedo, Emhoff’s communications director, said in a statement Sunday. “He is currently asymptomatic, continuing to work remotely, and remaining away from others at home.”
Douglas Emhoff attends Project Healthy Mind’s World Mental Health Day Gala at Spring Studios on Oct. 10, 2023 in New York City.
John Lamparski/Getty Images, FILE
“Out of an abundance of caution, yesterday, the Vice President was tested for COVID-19. She tested negative and remains asymptomatic,” Acevedo added.
Emhoff was at the White House a few days ago to celebrate Independence Day with Harris, President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden.
Doug Emhoff, the second gentleman of the United States, has tested positive for COVID-19, according to sources from his office. Emhoff, who is married to Vice President Kamala Harris, is the first spouse of a vice president to contract the virus since the pandemic began.
The news of Emhoff’s positive test comes as cases of COVID-19 continue to rise across the country, fueled by the highly contagious Delta variant. Emhoff is reportedly experiencing mild symptoms and is currently isolating at home.
In a statement released by his office, Emhoff urged others to take precautions to protect themselves and their loved ones from the virus. “I am grateful to be vaccinated and boosted, and I am feeling well,” he said. “I encourage everyone to get vaccinated and boosted if you haven’t already, and to wear masks in indoor public settings.”
Emhoff’s positive test serves as a reminder that no one is immune to the virus, even those who are fully vaccinated. Breakthrough infections can still occur, but the vaccines have been shown to greatly reduce the risk of severe illness and hospitalization.
As the second gentleman, Emhoff has been actively involved in promoting vaccination efforts and supporting those affected by the pandemic. His positive test underscores the importance of continuing to follow public health guidelines, such as wearing masks in crowded indoor spaces and getting vaccinated and boosted.
The White House has confirmed that Vice President Harris tested negative for COVID-19 and will continue with her scheduled events. The couple’s daughter, Ella Emhoff, who is a fashion designer and model, has also tested negative for the virus.
Emhoff’s positive test comes at a time when many Americans are preparing for holiday gatherings and travel. Health officials are urging everyone to take precautions to prevent the spread of COVID-19, including getting vaccinated, wearing masks, and practicing good hand hygiene.
As the country continues to navigate the challenges posed by the pandemic, it is important for everyone to remain vigilant and take steps to protect themselves and others. The news of Doug Emhoff’s positive test serves as a reminder that COVID-19 is still a threat, and that we must all do our part to stop the spread of the virus.
