Boris Johnson admitted to ICU as coronavirus symptoms worsen

Downing Street has confirmed that UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson has been moved to intensive care after his coronavirus symptoms worsened

“Since Sunday evening, the Prime Minister has been under the care of doctors at St Thomas’ Hospital, in London, after being admitted with persistent symptoms of coronavirus.

“Over the course of this afternoon, the condition of the Prime Minister has worsened and, on the advice of his medical team, he has been moved to the intensive care unit at the hospital,” said a Downing Street spokesperson.

“The PM has asked Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab, who is the First Secretary of State, to deputise for him where necessary.  The PM is receiving excellent care, and thanks all NHS staff for their hard work and dedication.

On March 27th, Johnson revealed he had tested positive for COVID-19.

On Sunday, he was admitted to hospital in London with “persistent symptoms” on Sunday evening.

Last night, on the advice of my doctor, I went into hospital for some routine tests as I’m still experiencing coronavirus symptoms. I’m in good spirits and keeping in touch with my team, as we work together to fight this virus and keep everyone safe.

— Boris Johnson #StayHomeSaveLives (@BorisJohnson) April 6, 2020

Johnson’s official spokesman said today that Johnson continued to lead the government and had been working on official papers from his bed.

The Prime Minister was said to be in “good spirits” after being taken to St Thomas’ Hospital in London as a “precaution”. Johnson himself tweeted similar sentiments this afternoon.

The Queen has been kept informed about Mr Johnson’s health by No 10, Buckingham Palace said.

Leaders from around the world have joined in wishing the Prime Minister well, including Simon Coveney.

Everyone in Ireland is tonight wishing @BorisJohnson well. This is a difficult time for the UK and it’s Govt. We in #Ireland wish the PM a speedy recovery. ?? ??

— Simon Coveney (@simoncoveney) April 6, 2020

My thoughts are with the PM and his family – sending him every good wish https://twitter.com/bbclaurak/status/1247240275791134720

— Nicola Sturgeon (@NicolaSturgeon) April 6, 2020

I send all my support to Boris Johnson, to his family and to the British people at this difficult moment. I wish him a speedy recovery at this testing time.

— Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) April 6, 2020

Sending my best wishes to Prime Minister @BorisJohnson for a full and speedy recovery. My thoughts are with you and your family right now. Hope to see you back at Number 10 soon.

— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) April 6, 2020

More to follow