Coronavirus: Boris Johnson still in hospital because ‘his symptoms remain persistent’

Boris Johnson is in “good spirits” after spending a “comfortable” night in hospital and remains there under observation, Downing Street has said.

The prime minister’s official spokesman said he continues to lead the government and has been working on official papers from his hospital bed.

Mr Johnson was admitted to hospital on Sunday night for tests after continuing to display symptoms of COVID-19, the disease caused by the coronavirus.

The PM wrote 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 praised the “brilliant” NHS staff taking care of him – describing them as the “best of Britain” – as well as reiterating government advice for people to “stay at home to protect the NHS and save lives”.

His spokesman declined to give any details of the treatment Mr Johnson has received – or when he might be discharged.

“The prime minister was admitted to hospital for tests last night as a precaution,” he said.

“The issue is that his symptoms remain persistent.”

The spokesman added: “The prime minister had a comfortable night at St Thomas’ Hospital in London and is in good spirits.

“He remains in hospital under observation.”

Downing Street dismissed a report in Russian state media that the PM was on a ventilator, describing it as “disinformation”.

“Our specialist government units have seen a rise in false and misleading narratives since the coronavirus pandemic started. It’s vital that any disinformation is knocked down quickly,” Mr Johnson’s spokesman said.

In his absence, the government’s daily COVID-19 meeting was led by Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab, who is Mr Johnson’s de facto deputy PM.

However, Mr Johnson’s spokesman said he had received his ministerial red box containing his official papers and was continuing to work from hospital.

“He continues to receive a box. The prime minister remains in charge of the government.”

The PM tested positive for the coronavirus on 27 March and had been self-isolating in the flat above 11 Downing Street.

Mr Johnson’s admission to hospital followed advice from his doctor, with his cough and high temperature continuing to persist more than a week after his diagnosis.

His spokesman said an ambulance was not required and Mr Johnson travelled the short distance from Number 10 by “private transportation”, but did not give any further details.

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He stressed that it was “not an emergency admission” and added: “His care will be dictated by the doctors who are looking after him.”

Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick told Sky News earlier that Mr Johnson “remains very much in charge of the government” and added: “I expect he’ll be able to return to Number 10 shortly.”

Politicians from all sides sent get-well messages to the PM, including Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer and Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon.

US President Donald Trump also wished Mr Johnson well, describing him as “a great friend of mine” and adding: “I’m sure he is going to be fine, he’s a strong man, a strong person.”

(c) Sky News 2020: Coronavirus: Boris Johnson still in hospital because ‘his symptoms remain persistent’