U.K. Prime Minister Boris Johnson has tested positive for the COVID-19 virus.
Johnson made the announcement in a video statement posted to Twitter on Friday.
“I’ve developed mild symptoms of the coronavirus, that’s to say a temperature and a persistent cough. On the advice of the chief medical officer, I’ve taken a test. That has come out positive,” said Johnson.
Johnson said he is now self-isolating at home, but that is not stopping him from leading the country.
“Be it no doubt that I can continue, thanks to the wizardry of modern technology, to communicate with all my top team to lead the national fightback against coronavirus,” he said.
The prime minister went on to thank the country’s public services for their “amazing national effort” during the pandemic.
As of Friday morning, the U.K. reported more than 11,800 cases of COVID-19 and 578 deaths.
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
