Matt Hancock tests posititve for coronavirus after Boris Johnson infected

The coronavirus crisis has now struck at the heart of the Westminster Government as the global health crisis continues to escalate. Mr Hancock said he had experienced mild symptoms of the virus and will be self-isolating until next Thursday. Shortly after 11am the Prime Minister confirmed he tested positive for COVID-19 after he developed a temperature and a persistent cough. 

Mr Hancock said in a video message: “Fortunately for me the symptoms so far have been very mild so I’ve been able to carry on with the work driving forward the UK response.”

He added: “I’ll be continuing to do everything I can to get our carers the support that they need. And I’ll be doing that from here but with no less gusto.

“And then from next Thursday, once I’m out of self-isolation and I hope with no more symptoms, then I’ll be able to get back stuck in and into the office where necessary.

“But the truth is that all of us can learn that working from home can be really, really effective.”

Mr Johnson revealed he has contracted the virus in a video shared on his Twitter account.

He said: “I’m working from home and self-isolating and that’s entirely the right thing to do.

“But, be in 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.

“I want to thank everybody involved and, of course, our amazing NHS staff.”

Downing Street confirmed Mr Johnson took the coronavirus test following the advice of the chief medical officer.

A Downing Street spokeswoman said: “After experiencing mild symptoms yesterday, the Prime Minister was tested for coronavirus on the personal advice of England’s chief medical officer, Professor Chris Whitty.

“The test was carried out in No 10 by NHS staff and the result of the test was positive.

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Shadow home secretary Diane Abbott said: “I don’t wish anyone ill. I wish the Prime Minister a speedy recovery. I hope everyone in coming days gets the care and medical attention they need.”

Mayor of London Sadiq Khan posted: “Sorry to hear this and hope you feel better soon. Thank you for everything your Government is doing to help us fight this. This is a reminder that anyone can get #COVID19. We must all follow the rules and stay at home to support our amazing NHS staff to save lives.”

Former Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt, wrote: “Thoughts and prayers of whole nation with Boris Johnson having tested positive for coronavirus. We are so grateful for your strong leadership at this time of crisis and know you will back with your trademark optimism before long! Thinking of you and Carrie.”

Meanwhile World Health Organisation director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus wrote on Twitter: “Please take good care PM Boris Johnson. I wish you an easy recovery.”