USA TODAY International Edition
Biden negative for virus, offers up mask reminder
Former Vice President Joe Biden tested negative for COVID- 19 on Friday, as the Democratic nominee called President Donald Trump’s positive test “a bracing reminder” of the need to fight the virus better during a trip to Grand Rapids, Michigan.
Biden told members of United Food and Commercial Workers Local 951 union that he took two virus tests and “everything was clear.” But he canceled a second event as a preventative measure because it was indoors with a crowd.
“We wanted to make sure everything was clear before I came,” said Biden, who wore a mask throughout his speech. “It was concluded by the docs that it was best not to do it,” he said of the second event.
Dr. Kevin O’Connor, the primary care physician, said Biden and his wife Jill were each tested and “COVID- 19 was not detected.”
“Thank you to everyone for your messages of concern,” Biden said in a tweet. “I hope this serves as a reminder: wear a mask, keep social distance, and wash your hands.”
Biden sent his prayers to Trump and
first lady Melania Trump, after they tested positive for the virus. But he said it was an important reminder to fight the virus more effectively.
“This is not a matter of politics,” Biden said. “It’s a bracing reminder for all of us that we have to take this virus seriously It’s not going away automatically.”
Biden argued that the country needs
regular testing with rapid results to protect meatpackers, food processors and other workers. He called again for governors to impose requirements that everyone wears masks for the next three months, to prevent more spread of the virus.
“Be patriotic. It’s not about being a tough guy. It’s about doing your part,” Biden said. “Every single American deserves safety and peace of mind.”
Guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention call for people to quarantine themselves for 14 days after coming into contact with someone who might have been infected with the virus. The CDC also recommends staying 6 feet apart from other people, wearing a face mask covering the nose and mouth, and washing hands often.
The mask subject rekindled at the debate Tuesday, when Biden cited projections that widespread mask- wearing could prevent half of the 200,000 additional deaths expected by the end year.
“Just wear a mask,” Biden said at the debate.
Trump said he wears a mask when necessary, and pulled one out of his pocket. He said those around him are tested routinely. But he ridiculed Biden for wearing one much more frequently. Trump also said Biden hasn’t held rallies because he couldn’t attract the large crowds the president generates, filled with people who stand close together and who often don’t wear masks.
“I don’t wear a mask like him,” Trump said. “Every time you see him, he’s got a mask. He could be speaking 200 feet away from him and he shows up with the biggest mask I’ve ever seen.”