LONDON — British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has tested positive for coronavirus, he announced Friday, making him the first major world leader to contract the illness that has sparked a global pandemic.
“I’ve developed mild symptoms of the coronavirus, that’s to say a temperature and a persistent cough,” Johnson said in a video posted to his Twitter account. “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 fight back against coronavirus.”
The prime minister experienced mild symptoms on Thursday and took a test on the personal advice of England’s Chief Medical Officer Chris Whitty.
“The test was carried out in No. 10 by NHS staff and the result of the test was positive,” a Downing Street spokesperson said.
“In keeping with the guidance, the prime minister is self-isolating in Downing Street. He is continuing to lead the government’s response to coronavirus.”
