U.S. Secretary of Defense  Lloyd Austin at the Pentagon in Washington DC (Photo Credit: US DOD)

By   Gary   Raynaldo    DIPLOMATIC   TIMES

WASHINGTON    DC  –   U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin has tested positive for COVID-19 despite being fully vaccinated.  Austin released a statement  on Sunday saying his symptoms are mild and that he will retain all authorities over military operations as the boss of the Pentagon. 

“I tested positive this morning for COVID-19. I requested the test today after exhibiting symptoms while at home on leave. My symptoms are mild, and I am following my physician’s directions. As my doctor made clear to me, my fully vaccinated status — and the booster I received in early October — have rendered the infection much more mild than it would otherwise have been. And I am grateful for that.”

-U.S.  Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin 

Secretary of Defense To Conduct Meetings Virtually This Week

The U.S. Defense Secretary said that he plans to attend virtually this week “those key meetings and discussions required to inform my situational awareness and decision making. I will retain all authorities.” Austin will  quarantine at home for  five days.   Austin aid in the  statement he last met President Joe Biden on Dec. 21, more than a week before he started experiencing symptoms. 

Approximately  98% of active-duty troops have received the COVID-19 vaccine, which is now mandatory for them.

“The vaccines work and will remain a military medical requirement for our workforce. I continue to encourage everyone eligible for a booster shot to get one. This remains a readiness issue,”   Defense Secretary Austin said.