Prime Minister Boris Johnson has been continuing to lead government meetings from self-isolation after testing positive for coronavirus
UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson was moved to an intensive care unit Monday after his condition with coronavirus symptoms "worsened," his office has said.
Johnson, 55, was first admitted to St Thomas' Hospital in London on Sunday evening for what he said were "routine tests," saying on social media that he was in "good spirits."
But the apparent change in the leader's health has shocked the nation, with politicians from his party and the opposition voicing their support for the leader, as the country battles an outbreak that has killed more than 5,000 people.
Passengers wear protective face masks as they travel on an underground train in London on March 15
According to Downing Street officials, Johnson remains conscious and has been moved to the intensive care unit as a precaution, in case he requires ventilation.
The move strikes a sharp contrast to earlier reports on Johnson's condition: During his period of self-isolation, Downing Street had said that Johnson's symptoms were "mild," and on Sunday said his hospitalization was just a "precautionary step."
The Prime Minister's spokesperson had said earlier on Monday that Johnson spent a "comfortable" night in hospital, but would not comment on reports Johnson was given oxygen. Officials are no longer describing his symptoms as mild.
Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab, who is the First Secretary of State and the most senior Cabinet minister, said Johnson had asked him to deputize for the leader where necessary.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson has been continuing to lead government meetings from self-isolation after testing positive for coronavirus
