Update: Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews in intensive care

Update Tuesday afternoon: After a “concerning” fall this morning, Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews has been placed in intensive care in hospital where he is expected to remain for “the next few days.”

The Premier issued a statement via his office this afternoon giving details of the accident and his condition.

“Early this morning, I was admitted to hospital after slipping and falling on wet and slippery stairs. A CT scan has revealed several broken ribs and vertebrae damage, and subsequent medical advice has recommended I remain in intensive care for the next few days.”

Andrews said his wife Catherine and his kids were “extremely grateful to the Ambulance Victoria paramedics who showed such care and kindness to our family this morning, as we are to the clinicians who have taken care of me today.”

“Our warm and sincere thanks go to the many family members, friends, colleagues and Victorians who have sent messages of love and support throughout the day. Thank you.”

The Premier said he hoped to give another update on his condition later in the week but asked that his family’s privacy was respected in the mean time.

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Tuesday morning: Premier Daniel Andrews has been rushed to hospital this morning, after falling over at his home while getting ready for work.

The Premier, 48, is said to have been taken for precautionary X-rays.

The ABC has reported that the Premier’s office confirmed it was not a head injury but the fall was “concerning”.

The Premier will not be attending work today and has been replaced by Deputy Premier James Merlino for the government’s inquiry into Indigenous disadvantage.

“He’s fine and will be back on his feet very shortly,” Merlino said, the ABC reported.

Today was supposed to be the first day back for Andrews, who has been on leave since Friday.

According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, 41 per cent of hospitalised injuries in 2016–17 were falls, making it the most common cause of injury.