Wicker says he’s recovered from coronavirus

Sen. Roger Wicker (R-Miss.) says he’s fully recovered after testing positive for COVID-19 earlier this month.

Wicker announced two weeks ago that he tested positive for COVID-19 despite being fully vaccinated. He was tested after experiencing mild symptoms.

“To everyone who has asked, I have recovered fully from my bout with COVID-19, and I have a clean bill of health. I am looking forward to resuming my travel in the state this week,” Wicker tweeted.

“I encourage all who have not yet received a COVID vaccine to talk to their doctor. Being fully vaccinated greatly reduced my risk of developing severe complications from the virus. Getting the shot is safe, easy, and free, and it could save your life,” he continued.

I encourage all who have not yet received a COVID vaccine to talk to their doctor. Being fully vaccinated greatly reduced my risk of developing severe complications from the virus. Getting the shot is safe, easy, and free, and it could save your life. https://t.co/7zNfLhgHxw

— Senator Roger Wicker (@SenatorWicker) August 31, 2021

The incidence of COVID-19 breakthrough cases — defined as contracting the virus two weeks after full vaccination — are rare.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says that such infections are to be expected, but fully vaccinated people who contract COVID-19 tend to develop less severe symptoms that those who are unvaccinated.

Wicker was the second known breakthrough case among senators, after Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) became the first known case among senators earlier in the month.

The same day Wicker disclosed his diagnosis, Sen. Angus King (I-Maine) announced that he had tested positive for COVID-19 despite being vaccinated, becoming the third known breakthrough case among senators.

Also that day, Sen. John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.) announced that he had tested positive for COVID-19, becoming the fourth such case.

King said Tuesday that he has recovered from his bout with COVID-19, and encouraged residents to get vaccinated.

“Thanks to all who’ve sent me warm wishes after my COVID diagnosis; happy to say that I’m back to 100%. I didn’t feel great during the worst of my illness, but I’m confident that I would have felt a whole lot worse if I hadn’t received the vaccine,” King said.