U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III  joined the growing ranks of people testing positive for COVID-19, according to a news release.

"I tested positive this morning for COVID-19," Austin said Jan. 2. "I requested the test today after exhibiting symptoms while at home on leave. My symptoms are mild, and I am following my physician’s directions."

He was to remain in quarantine for the following five days, Austin said.

"Stemming the spread of this virus, safeguarding our workforce and  ensuring my own speedy and safe recovery remain my priorities," Austin said. "To the degree possible, I plan to attend virtually this coming week those key meetings and discussions required to inform my situational awareness and decision making. I will retain all authorities."

Austin last met with President Biden on Dec. 21, more than a week before he began to experience  symptoms for COVID, the news release said.

" I tested negative that very morning," the defense secretary said. "I have not been in the  Pentagon since Thursday, where I met briefly - and only - with a few  members of my staff. We were properly masked and socially distanced throughout."

He was fully vaccinated and had received a booster shot in early October, which resulted in a milder case of COVID-19, he said.

"And I am grateful for that," Austin said. "The vaccines work and will remain a military medical requirement for our workforce. I continue to encourage everyone eligible for a booster shot to get one. This remains a readiness issue."