First Lady Melania Trump
Melania TrumpWhite House security official lost foot and part of leg fights COVID-19: Report Trump White House staff first to receive COVID-19 vaccine The Hill’s Morning Report – presented by Facebook – Congress tries to avoid shutdown as virus talks stall again MORE took off her mask on Tuesday to read to children at the Children’s National Hospital, where hospital policy requires visitors to wear a face cover, although officials noted that she was sitting away from others.
The first lady has visited the hospital every year during her stay at the White House, according to CNN.
Trump entered the hospital wearing a mask, but took it off after sitting in front of the Christmas tree while practicing social distancing, the news center said.
Hospital policy states, “Everyone must wear a mask at all times in a Children’s National facility to prevent the spread of COVID-19.”
A hospital spokesperson remarked to CNN: “Under DC health regulations, wearing a mask is not mandatory when a person is speaking to broadcast or an audience, provided no one is within six feet of the speaker . “
She added, “[Trump] was more than 3 feet away from others in our large atrium. All other people in that room were wearing masks. “
The first lady’s office claimed in a statement Tuesday evening that the visit “followed the hospital’s mask protocols for public speakers, based on the District of Columbia health guidelines.”
“Throughout the holiday program, the First Lady was more than ten feet from others in the four-story atrium,” he said, adding that the visit “was broadcast to 325 hospital rooms.”
On arrival at the hospital, Trump said, “It’s great to be here. This is one of my favorite events during the holiday season and I’m really looking forward to reading a book.”
‘I think about all of you. Stay strong and healthy and have a Merry Christmas and a Merry Christmas, ”she said.
First Lady Melania Trump removes the mask to read to children in the hospital and violates hospital safety guidelines. pic.twitter.com/Cd4E48P30L
– The Hill (@thehill) December 15, 2020
Most of the children attended the talk virtually, but Trump did come to the hospital with two children sitting in front of her while she read. She read “Oliver the Ornament Meets Marley & Joan and Abbey” by Todd Zimmerman.
She stopped putting on her mask when she left the hospital.
Trump contracted the corona virus in early October when her husband, President Trump
Donald Trump Hogan on Republicans Won’t Accept Election Results: ‘They’re Off the Runway’ Biden Rips Trump’s Refusal to Admit After Electoral College Vote Top GOP Senators Recognize Biden as President-Elect after Electoral College Votes MORE, and her son Barron were both diagnosed with the disease.
The first lady has likely developed antibodies against the coronavirus, although health experts aren’t sure how long this immunity lasts. Even after infection, health experts recommend wear a mask.
In early December, the White House confirmed that it would still hold holiday parties despite the rising number of coronavirus cases across the country. The White House has reportedly planned at least 25 parties this year, with each event hosting about 50 guests.
In Washington, DC, holiday gatherings are currently limited to 10 people indoors and 25 people outdoors, although these rules do not apply to the White House.
According to the most recent data, DC is currently experiencing an increase in the number of COVID-19 cases with a 7-day average of 245 cases per day.
– This article was updated at 8 p.m. with additional information about the White House visit and statement