UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson tests positive for coronavirus and is experiencing mild symptoms, says No 10
Prime Minister Boris Johnson
“He was tested for coronavirus on the personal advice of England’s chief medical officer, Professor Chris Whitty,” a statement said.
He will still be in charge of the government’s handling of the crisis, the statement added.
The test was carried out at Number 10 by NHS staff.
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.”
Mr Johnson was last seen on Thursday night, as he clapped outside No 10 as part of a nationwide gesture to thank NHS staff.
There are more than 11,600 confirmed cases of coronavirus in the UK, and 578 people have died.
Summary of global updates
- Britain’s PM has tested positive for coronavirus
- Boris Johnson is self-isolating but not stepping back from his duties for the time being
- The death toll in Spain rises sharply as 769 people die in 24 hours
- President Trump says there is “much respect” after calling President Xi of China
- There had been tension after Mr Trump’s use of the phrase “Chinese virus”
- The US now has more than 85,000 cases – overtaking China. More people with Covid-19 have died in China, however
- Australia is to quarantine all returning citizens in hotels