WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Rep. Peter Welch, D-Vt., has tested positive for COVID-19, he announced Monday night on Twitter. Welch, 74, wrote that his symptoms began that morning and were mild. He said he would be isolating and working from home for the rest of the week.

“I’m grateful for the protection I have from my vaccine and booster,” he wrote. “If you’re eligible, please get vaccinated and boosted.”

Welch is the highest-ranking public official in Vermont to disclose a positive COVID test.

A resident of Norwich, Welch has served in public office on and off since 1980, when he was first elected to the state Senate. He has represented Vermont in the U.S. House since 2007 and is vacating that seat to run for the U.S. Senate.

Former President Barack Obama announced on Sunday that he had tested positive for COVID-19. He said he felt fine. His wife, Michelle, tested negative.