UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced on Twitter Friday that he has tested positive for COVID-19, the disease caused by the deadly novel coronavirus.
“Over the last 24 hours I have developed mild symptoms and tested positive for coronavirus,” the prime minister tweeted.
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 pic.twitter.com/9Te6aFP0Ri
— Boris Johnson #StayHomeSaveLives (@BorisJohnson) March 27, 2020
The leader told followers he took the test on the advice of the England’s chief medical officer after he developed a fever and cough. The test was administered at No. 10 Downing Street, the Prime Minister’s London residence, Johnson’s office explained in a statement.
The ailing PM says he’ll continue to lead the government’s response to the virus via video conference, explaining that he plans to self-isolate at No. 10 Downing Street, in accordance with prevailing medical advisories for infected persons.
“The more effectively we all comply with those measures, the faster our country will come through this epidemic and the faster we’ll bounce back,” the prime minister said.
