U.S. secretary of homeland security tests positive for COVID-19

Special: Battle Against Novel Coronavirus

U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas has tested positive for COVID-19 despite having been fully vaccinated, his spokesperson said Tuesday.

"Secretary Mayorkas tested positive this morning for the COVID-19 virus after taking a test as part of routine pre-travel protocols. Secretary Mayorkas is experiencing only mild congestion; he is fully vaccinated and will isolate and work at home per (the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) protocols and medical advice. Contact tracing is underway," CNN reported, citing a statement from Marsha Espinosa, the secretary's spokesperson.

CNN also reported that Mayorkas' positive test came as he was scheduled to travel to Colombia with Secretary of State Antony Blinken. Mayorkas is now working from home.