BREAKING: Boris Johnson tests positive for Covid-19

The British Prime Minister tweeted the news this morning

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has tested positive for Covid-19.

In a video posted on Twitter, Johnson confirmed he had developed mild symptoms — a “temperature and persistent cough” – over the last 24 hours and, on the advice of the chief medical officer, he took a test which returned positive for coronavirus.

Johnson said he is self-isolating and working from home and said he will continue “thanks to the wizardry of modern technology” to communicate with his team “and lead the national fight against coronavirus”. He also thanked the NHS and everybody working through the pandemic.

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

A statement from Downing Street said Johnson had started to experience “mild symptoms” on Thursday and was advised by chief medical officer Professor Chris Whitty to be tested.

“The test was carried out in No 10 by NHS staff and the result of the test was positive,” the statement added.

More to follow…