UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson moved to ICU as coronavirus symptoms worsen

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has been transferred to intensive care after his coronavirus symptoms “worsened”, officials have confirmed. Johnson, 55, was first admitted to St Thomas’ Hospital in London with “persistent symptoms” on 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,” Downing Street said in a statement. “Over the course of [Monday] 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.”

The statement continued: “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.”

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

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 (@BorisJohnson) April 6, 2020

Johnson announced that he had tested positive for the virus on March 27. In a video, the prime minister said: “Hi folks I want to bring you up to speed on something that is happening today which is that I have developed mild symptoms of coronavirus, that is to say a temperature and a persistent cough, and on the advice of the chief medical officer I have taken a test. That has come out positive so I am working from home, I am self isolating.”

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 (@BorisJohnson) March 27, 2020

Many people sent well wishes to the prime minister on social media, with one person writing: “Boris Johnson is very much in my thoughts and prayers. I wish him a speedy recovery. Thank you to our expert #NHS staff working 24/7 battling this #coronavirus crisis keeping us safe.”

Another added: “On behalf of all the UK we wish you better and thank you for doing an amazing job fighting this.”