US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin tests positive for COVID-19 with mild symptoms: Pentagon

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US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has contracted COVID-19 and will remain quarantined at home for at least five days, he said in a statement released by the US Department of Defense on Sunday (local time).</p>
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"I tested positive this morning for COVID-19. I requested the test today after exhibiting symptoms while at home on leave," Austin said, adding that his "symptoms are mild" and he is following his physician's directions.</p>
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"In keeping with those directions, and in accordance with CDC guidelines, I will quarantine myself at home for the next five days," he added.</p>
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The Pentagon chief said that he is going to attend upcoming key meetings virtually.</p>
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"Stemming the spread of this virus, safeguarding our workforce and ensuring my own speedy and safe recovery remain my priorities. To the degree possible, I plan to attend virtually this coming week those key meetings and discussions required to inform my situational awareness and decision making. I will retain all authorities. Deputy Secretary Hicks will represent me as appropriate in other matters," the statement read.</p>
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He specified that the last time he met with US President Joe Biden was on December 21 and the last time he visited the Pentagon was on Thursday.</p>
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"My last meeting with President Biden occurred on Tuesday, December 21st, more than a week before I began to experience symptoms. I tested negative that very morning. I have not been in the Pentagon since Thursday, where I met briefly – and only – with a few members of my staff. We were properly masked and socially distanced throughout," Austin said in the statement.</p>