Coronavirus: Boris Johnson to continue in self-isolation as he still has COVID-19 symptom

Boris Johnson has revealed he will remain in self-isolation as he is still suffering from a symptom of coronavirus.

The prime minister entered self-isolation in 11 Downing Street for seven days last Thursday night after testing positive for COVID-19.

However, despite those seven days now having passed, Mr Johnson will remain away from others as he still has a high temperature.

In a video posted to his Twitter account on Friday, the prime minister said: “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 and so, in accordance with government advice, I must continue my self-isolation until that symptom itself goes.”

Mr Johnson also used the video message to urge the public to stay at home ahead of the weekend, when warmer weather is being forecast.

“I just want to say one crucial thing, one quick thing to everybody thinking about this weekend and what may be some fine weather,” the prime minister added.

“Because I reckon a lot of people will be starting to think that this is all going on for quite a long time, and they’d rather be getting out there and, particularly if they’ve got kids in the household, everybody may be getting a bit stir crazy.

“And there may be just a temptation to get out there, hang out and start to break the regulations.

“And 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.”

Mr Johnson made a brief appearance at the door of 11 Downing Street on Thursday night to join the national applause for NHS workers.

And he urged Britons to remember that moment in following the government orders to remain at home.

He added: “Remember that incredible clapping again last night for our fantastic NHS.

“We’re doing it to protect them and to save lives. Let’s focus on doing everything we can.

“Stay at home folks, protect our NHS, save lives.”

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As he self-isolates, the prime minister has come under pressure over the UK’s current level of coronavirus testing, when compared with other countries such as Germany and South Korea, as well as the level of testing of NHS staff.

Mr Johnson used the video message to hail Thursday’s news that the government is targeting 100,000 tests per day in England – as revealed by Health Secretary Matt Hancock – as a “big announcement”.

Mr Hancock has ended his own self-isolation after also testing positive for coronavirus and was present at Friday’s opening of the new makeshift Nightingale Hospital in east London.

He earlier revealed he lost half a stone due to the “really very unpleasant” effects of COVID-19.

(c) Sky News 2020: Coronavirus: Boris Johnson to continue in self-isolation as he still has COVID-19 symptom