Coronavirus: UK PM Boris Johnson tests positive for COVID-19
What's the story
United Kingdom Prime Minister Boris Johnson has tested positive for the coronavirus disease COVID-19. The development comes as the UK reports almost 12,000 cases of coronavirus infections. Earlier, Prince Charles of the British Royal Family had also tested positive for the viral disease and chose to self-isolate. Johnson has also decided to self-isolate following his diagnosis. Here are more details.
Details
Boris Johnson has mild symptoms; will self-isolate at Downing Street
Johnson had been tested for COVID-19 on the personal advice of England's chief medical officer, Professor Chris Whitty, a statement from the Prime Minister's office said. Addressing his followers through social media, Johnson said he had developed mild symptoms, including a fever and a persistent cough. He said he will be working from home and self-isolating at 10 Downing Street.
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Johnson will continue to 'lead national fight against coronavirus'
Johnson clarified, "Be in no doubt that I can continue to communicate with all my top team to lead the national fight against coronavirus." He said, "I want to thank everybody who is involved, above all, the amazing NHS (National Health Service) staff," also acknowledging the efforts of the police, social care workers, teachers, DWP (Department for Work and Pensions) staff, and public volunteers.
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'We're going to beat coronavirus together'
Further, he said, "Thank you to everybody who is doing what I'm doing—working from home. Stop the spread of the virus from household to household. That's the way, we're going to win. We're going to beat it and we're going to beat it together."
Twitter Post
You can watch Johnson's video statement here
Over the last 24 hours I have developed mild symptoms and tested positive for coronavirus.
— Boris Johnson #StayHomeSaveLives (@BorisJohnson) March 27, 2020
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 pic.twitter.com/9Te6aFP0Ri
Information
Modi extends prayers for Johnson's good health
After Johnson was tested positive for COVID-19, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted, "Dear Prime Minister Boris Johnson, you are a fighter and you will overcome this challenge as well. Prayers for your good health and best wishes in ensuring a healthy UK."
Other developments
British Health Minister also tests positive for COVID-19
British Health Minister Matt Hancock has also tested positive for COVID-19. Earlier this week, Johnson's spokesperson had said that if the PM is unable to work due to his health, Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab, the first secretary of state, will stand-in. Separately, whether Johnson will continue living with his fiancee Carrie Symonds remains unknown. Symonds is several months pregnant.
Coronavirus in UK
580 dead in UK from coronavirus
In the UK, the novel coronavirus has infected as many as 11,800 people, out of whom, only 150 have managed to recover. The virus has also claimed the lives of 580 people. Johnson's diagnosis also comes two days after Prince Charles (71), heir apparent to the British throne, was tested positive for the disease. The Prince "remains in good health."