Washington DC, United States
United States Vice President Kamala Harris is in "excellent health," wrote her doctor, US Army physician Joshua R Simmons, in a letter detailing her medical history, which was made public by the White House on Saturday (Oct 12).
Dr Simmons described Harris’ April health check as "unremarkable," highlighting her active lifestyle, healthy eating habits, and occasional issues such as seasonal allergies, sporadic hives, and moderate alcohol consumption.
"In summary, Vice President Harris remains in excellent health. She possesses the physical and mental resiliency required to successfully execute the duties of the presidency, to include those as chief executive, head of state and commander in chief," Simmons stated.
Harris suffers from seasonal allergies and hives, and she is nearsighted, the doctor noted. All of her vaccinations and preventive care are up to date, and her latest physical exam in April, along with routine blood tests, have shown no health concerns.
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Harris wears contact lenses, takes a vitamin D3 supplement, and occasionally uses both over-the-counter and prescribed allergy medications, such as Allegra, nasal spray, and eye drops, Simmons added. She does not use tobacco and consumes alcohol "only occasionally and in moderation."
At 59 years old, Harris is running against Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump, 78, in the upcoming November election. The release of this medical information is seen as a way to contrast the Democratic nominee’s health with that of Trump, who would be the oldest person elected to the presidency and has shared limited details about his own health.
Trump had previously raised concerns about President Joe Biden’s health when the 81-year-old was seeking re-election. However, since Harris took Biden's place on the ticket, attention has shifted to Trump’s own health.
The US VP made her medical records public on Saturday reportedly in an effort to highlight Trump's decision not to disclose his.
(With inputs from agencies)