Andy Sullivan

WASHINGTON, (Reuters) – Washington is emerging from the COVID cocoon with visitors returning to the U.S. Capitol, and officials attending a white tie party that has been scotched over the last two years. The coronavirus continues to stalk the halls.

Even though caseloads are dropping across the country, at least half-a dozen senior officials including President Joe Biden’s Cabinet members and legislators have been positive for COVID-19.

The Gridiron dinner is a Washington highlight and Attorney General Merrick Garland and Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo were tested for positive days after. Democratic Representatives Adam Schiff, Joaquin Castro and Joaquin Castro also passed the test.

Gridiron President Tom DeFrank stated that guests at the white tie event had to present proof of vaccination. However, a few have been able to report positive results since then. He added, “We wish them speedy recovery.”

White House employees, journalists, and other officials also have tested positive recently, including Jonathan Kanter (Justice Department Antitrust Chief) and Debbie Wasserman Schultz (Democratic Representative).

Biden (79) was not present at the event. Biden visited the White House with former President Barack Obama on Tuesday. Obama passed the March test.

Jen Psaki spoke on Tuesday for the White House. She stated that every person who has contact with him is tested prior to meeting and they are frequently socially separated. She said that Biden was negative for HIV last week.

Since February 2020, at least 979 000 Americans have been killed by the coronavirus.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, deaths and hospitalizations dropped dramatically in recent months. However, the new BA.2 Omicron variety now accounts for almost three quarters of all cases in the country.

Amesh Amalja, senior scholar at Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security, stated that the latest outbreak of cases shows how difficult it is to completely avoid the virus. However, vaccinations, treatments, and increasing immunity levels are decreasing the risk of severe illness.

He stated, “Everyone is going to get it.” But I believe we have successfully moved COVID-19 towards the milder end of the spectrum.