Boris Johnson Is In Intensive Care in COVID-19 Battle

boris johnson intensive care

Getty The hospital where Boris Johnson is in intensive care

Boris Johnson’s condition has taken a turn for the worse. The British prime minister is now in intensive care as he battles a COVID-19 infection, according to a statement from 10 Downing Street.

“Prime Minister Boris Johnson has been taken into intensive care in hospital with coronavirus,” BBC wrote on April 6, revealing that Johnson has asked his deputy prime minister Dominic Raab “to deputise for him.” Johnson announced he had tested positive for coronavirus on March 27, 2020. He was the first world leader to reveal he had the virus.

The Guardian reported on April 6 that “several sources say Johnson has required oxygen to help with his breathing following his admission to hospital,” although Downing Street denied that and debunked Russian reporters that Johnson is on a ventilator, calling them “disinformation.” Other British media sites also reported that Johnson has been given oxygen. Johnson remains conscious and is in intensive care in case he requires ventilation, according to Metro.

Johnson has been battling COVID-19 for days. The British Prime Minister is 55 years old. On April 3, Johnson posted a video to his Twitter page talking about his symptoms. “Hi folks quick update for me on the campaign against coronavirus,” he said in that video. “First of all in my own case, although I’m feeling better, and I’ve done my seven days of isolation, alas I still have one of the symptoms, a minor symptom, I still have a temperature, so in accordance with government advice, I must continue my self-isolation until that symptom itself goes, but we’re working clearly the whole time on our program to defeat the virus.” He then spoke about increased testing and warm weather coming and how people might have an urge to go outside and congregate and added, “I just urge you not to do that. Please, please stick with the guidance now. This country has made a huge effort, a huge sacrifice, done absolutely brilliantly well in delaying the spread of the virus. Let’s stick with it now.”

Here’s what you need to know:


Johnson Has Been in the Hospital Since Sunday April 5

Johnson has been in St. Thomas’ Hospital in London since Sunday, April 5 when he was taken there for “persistent symptoms of coronavirus,” according to ITV.com.

A spokesperson for Johnson said on April 6: “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.”

On April 6, in announcing he was going to the hospital, Johnson had painted it as routine, writing on Twitter, “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.”

He also wrote: “I’d like to say thank you to all the brilliant NHS staff taking care of me and others in this difficult time. You are the best of Britain. Stay safe everyone, and please remember to stay at home to protect the NHS and save lives.”

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