United Kingdom Prime Minister Boris Johnson has been moved to intensive care after his coronavirus symptoms worsened, according to government officials.
Johnson, 55, asked Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab to deputise, a Downing Street spokesperson said on Monday.
Johnson was admitted to hospital on Sunday night and had been undergoing tests after suffering persistent coronavirus symptoms for more than 10 days, but the government had earlier said he was in good spirits and still in charge.
“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,” the Downing Street spokesperson told Al Jazeera in an emailed statement.
“The PM is receiving excellent care, and thanks all NHS staff for their hard work and dedication.”
Johnson tested positive for the virus on March 26.
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 #StayHomeSaveLives (@BorisJohnson) April 6, 2020