The United Kingdom said Friday that Prime Minister Boris Johnson has tested positive for the new coronavirus, EDNews reports citing CNBC.
Johnson was tested for COVID-19 on Thursday after experiencing “mild symptoms,” a spokesman for No. 10 Downing Street said in a statement.
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
“The test was carried out in No 10 by NHS staff and the result of the test was positive,” the spokesman said. “In keeping with the guidance, the Prime Minister is self-isolating in Downing Street.”
“He is continuing to lead the government’s response to coronavirus.”
Johnson confirmed his diagnosis in a tweet Friday morning.
“I’ve developed mild symptoms of the coronavirus, that is to say a temperature and a persistent cough,” Johnson said in a video posted to the website.
“But 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,” Johnson said.
