Trump will continue working 'without disruption' after coronavirus diagnosis, White House doctor says

The president has cancelled in-person events and is quarantining, he says

Donald Trump and Melania Trump have both tested positive for the virus (Copyright 2020 The Associated Press. All rights reserved)

Donald Trump will continue to carry out his duties “without disruption”, according to a statement issued by his White House doctor after the president tested positive for the coronavirus.

Mr Trump’s doctor, Navy Commander Dr Sean Conley, said the president and First Lady Melania Trump “are both well at this time, and they plan to remain at home within the White House during their convalescence".

The president has cancelled plans to attend a fundraiser and will no longer be travelling to Florida for a rally or meeting supporters in Washington DC on Friday. Mr Trump announced that he and Ms Trump will be quarantining “immediately”.

The president’s medical team will keep a “vigilant watch” over Mr Trump and keep the public updated on any developments in his condition, his physician said.

Dr Conley said: “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.”   

The president’s announcement came after White House counsellor Hope Hicks, who had accompanied him to the debate on Tuesday and to a rally on Wednesday, tested positive on Thursday. Ms Hicks was seen both with and without a mask.

The president, and likely many of his close colleagues, will be forced to quarantine for 15 days. The next presidential debate with Joe Biden, the Democratic candidate, is set for 15 October. 

The positive result – just over a month away from the country heading  to the polls on 3 November – could have serious ramifications on the race.

The president has been trying desperately to convince the public that the worst of the pandemic is over despite cases continuing to rise as election day approaches. At 74, the president is considered high risk for complications from Covid-19.

Additional reporting by Associated Press