UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson has tested positive for the COVID-19 Coronavirus.
In a tweet, Mr Johnson said,
“Over the last 24 hours I have developed mild symptoms and tested positive for coronavirus. I am now self-isolating, but I will continue to lead the government’s response via video-conference as we fight this virus. Together we will beat this. #StayHomeSaveLives”
In a video, Mr Johnson said he had developed mild symptoms including a temperature and persistent cough. He said; “Be in no doubt that I can continue, thanks to the wizardry of modern technology, to communicate with all my top team to lead the national fight back against coronavirus.”
In a statement, Downing Street said the PM had been tested on the advice of chief medical officer Professor Chris Whitty after he had been experiencing ‘mild symptoms’ on Thursday.
Downing Street said ‘the test was carried out in No10 by NHS staff and the result of the test was positive.’
The Prime Minister was last seen outside of Downing Street on Thursday night with the Chancellor Rishi Sunak to take part in the ‘Clap for Our Carers’ appreciation of NHS workers at 8pm.
It is thought that other ministers who have been around the PM in Downing Street in recent days may now need to self-isolate. It is unknown whether Carrie Symonds, who is pregnant, remains in Downing Street at the moment.
Mr Johnson has not called on his deputy Dominic Raab at this time.
Photo Credit: Andrew Parsons / No 10 Downing Street under licence (CC BY-NC-ND 2.0)
