Boris Johnson Taken to Intensive Care After Coronavirus Symptoms Worsen

The Prime Minister is being treated at St Thomas’ Hospital in London – Image: ANDY RAIN/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock

Britain’s Prime Minister Boris Johnson has been taken to an intensive care unit as he battles coronavirus, Downing Street has confirmed.

The PM, who is conscious and not on a ventilator, was admitted to St Thomas’ Hospital last night, and his condition worsened today.

Mr Johnson first tested positive for coronavirus 10 days ago.

Mirror Online reports: “The 55-year-old was moved to the ICU at around 7pm after experiencing breathing difficulties which required him to be given oxygen.

“Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab – who earlier said the PM was in “good spirits” – has been instructed to deputise for Mr Johnson.”

A statement from Downing Street said: “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.

“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.”

Buckingham Palace said the Queen is being kept up-to-date on Mr Johnson’s condition.

Just hours before he was moved, Mr Johnson tweeted: “I’m in good spirits and keeping in touch with my team, as we work together to fight this virus and keep everyone safe.”

Insiders last week said the disease had hit him “like a sledgehammer” despite his efforts to put a brave face on it.

As news of his condition worsening broke, Labour leader Keir Starmer wrote on Twitter: “Terribly sad news. All the country’s thoughts are with the Prime Minister and his family during this incredibly difficult time.”

And Jeremy Corbyn, who stood down as leader of the opposition at the weekend, posted: “My thoughts are with Boris Johnson and his family tonight. Thanks to the NHS staff for their hard work and dedication.”

Former Prime Minister David Cameron wrote: “Thinking of Boris Johnson and his family tonight. Get well soon. You are in great hands and we all want you safe, well and back in 10 Downing Street.”

And Theresa May said: “My thoughts and prayers are with Boris Johnson and his family as he continues to receive treatment in hospital.”

The Cabinet Secretary informed ministers that the Prime Minister was moved to intensive care in a video call earlier this evening.

Ministers were told that the Prime Minister is not on a ventilator, the report added.

“However Professor Derek Hill, professor of medical imaging at University College London (UCL), said it was “very likely” Mr Johnson would be put on a mechanical ventilator in intensive care.”

“Mr Johnson tested positive for the virus on March 26.

“A report earlier this evening in the Financial Times said efforts were being made to lessen the Prime Minister’s workload.

“In a statement last night, Number 10 said: “On the advice of his doctor, the Prime Minister has tonight been admitted to hospital for tests.