WASHINGTON – President Donald Trump said Saturday he had taken acoronavirus test, as the White House began protectively checking thetemperature of anyone coming into close contact with him or Vice PresidentMike Pence.
Appearing at a White House news conference where he attempted again toprovide guidance and assurance to worried Americans, Trump said he had yetto receive the results of his own test.
Contrary to medical advice, the president was seen Friday shaking hands allround as he gathered his coronavirus response team at the White House — apractice he said Saturday owed to long-time habit as a politician but whichhe said would have to change.
Trump said Friday he’d “most likely” get tested for the novel coronavirus,as he was grilled on his recent contacts with several members of a visitingBrazilian presidential delegation who have since tested positive.
But a White House doctor later walked that back, saying he “remains withoutsymptoms” and did not need to be tested.
Briefing reporters on Saturday, the president said he did indeed take thetest on Friday night, and expected the results in a day or two.
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The White House announced earlier in the day that “out of an abundance ofcaution, temperature checks are now being performed on any individuals whoare in close contact with the president and vice president.”
Before Saturday’s briefing, a member of the White House medical team tookthe temperature of all journalists wishing to attend.
One of them was excluded after a high reading. – APP / AFP
