Abbott tests negative for COVID-19

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott (R) on Saturday announced he had tested negative for COVID-19 after brief battle with the virus.

Abbott, who is vaccinated, said on Tuesday had tested positive for what is known as a breakthrough infection.

“I am told that my infection was brief and mild because of the vaccination I received. So I encourage others who have not yet received the vaccination to consider getting one,” Abbott said in a video message, adding he will continue to quarantine from his home and will work on opening antibody therapy treatment centers in the state. 

“Once again I want to thank everybody for your prayers and your well wishes, may God bless you all, and may God continue to bless the great state of Texas,” Abbott said. 

I am now testing negative for Covid.

I am told that my infection was brief & mild because of the vaccination I received.

I will continue to quarantine as recommended by doctors.

And, I will keep working on issues affecting Texas.

God bless you all.
And God bless Texas. pic.twitter.com/VOqpUCONKS

— Greg Abbott (@GregAbbott_TX) August 21, 2021

COVID-19 cases have surged in Texas and around the country, a spike driven largely by highly contagious delta variant. 

Abbott has refused to bring back a number of COVID-19 restrictions in Texas and is in the midst of litigation with a number of cities, counties and school districts over his ban on mask mandates.