Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin experienced complications from a minimally invasive treatment for prostate cancer, which required him to return to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center earlier this month. The reason for his hospitalization, previously undisclosed, now becomes clear.
Austin was admitted to Walter Reed on January 1st for difficulties and a urinary tract infection. However, his operation took place on December 22nd. Unfortunately, news of his hospital readmission only surfaced on January 5th due to a key worker being unwell with the flu, causing a delay in notifying the authorities.
"Agencies should ensure that delegations are issued when a Cabinet Member is traveling to areas with limited or no access to communication, undergoing hospitalization or a medical procedure requiring general anesthesia, or otherwise in a circumstance when he or she may be unreachable," sent a memo by White House Chief of Staff Jeff Zients.
By Tuesday, Austin's "infection has cleared," according to a statement from officials. Major General Pat Ryder, the Pentagon's press secretary, said at a news conference that Austin is now "actively engaged in his duties."
"Agencies should ensure that delegations are issued when a Cabinet Member is traveling to areas with limited or no access to communication, undergoing hospitalization or a medical procedure requiring general anesthesia, or otherwise in a circumstance when he or she may be unreachable," sent a memo by White House Chief of Staff Jeff Zients.
By Tuesday, Austin's "infection has cleared," according to a statement from officials. Major General Pat Ryder, the Pentagon's press secretary, said at a news conference that Austin is now "actively engaged in his duties."
