LONDON, March 27, 2020 (UPI) — British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said Friday he’s tested positive for the coronavirus disease, but has so far experienced only mild symptoms.
Johnson is the first head of government to announce they have tested positive for the COVID-19.
“Over the last 24 hours I have developed mild symptoms and tested positive for coronavirus,” the British leader tweeted Friday. “I am now self-isolating, but I will continue to lead the government’s response via video-conference as we fight this virus.”
In a video message, Johnson thanked Britain’s National Health Service, healthcare workers and all Britons working to stop the spread of the virus, which has so far killed hundreds of people in Britain.
“We will get through it, and the way we’re going to get through it is, of course, by applying the measures that you have heard so much about,” Johnson said in his video message. “The more effectively we comply with those measures, the faster our country will come through this [crisis] and the faster we’ll bounce back.”
Johnson’s announcement came hours after the British government issued new guidelines against Britons moving into new homes during lockdown measures. The move essentially freezes Britain’s real estate market.
“We encourage all parties to do all they can to amicably agree alternative dates to move, for a time when it is likely that stay-at-home measures against coronavirus will no longer be in place,” the guidance said.
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
