U.K. Prime Minister Boris Johnson has tested positive for the novel coronavirus, he revealed on Friday morning.

Johnson said he had “developed mild symptoms” of the virus and intended to continue leading the U.K. government through video conferences in a recorded statement announcing that he had tested positive for COVID-19.

The Prime Minister also said he would be “self-isolating” at his 10 Downing Street residence as he experienced a “persistent cough” and a high temperature.

“Over the last 24 hours I have developed mild symptoms and tested positive for coronavirus,” the prime minister tweeted. “I am now self-isolating, but I will continue to lead the government’s response via video-conference as we fight this virus.”

In his video statement, he added: “I’ve developed mild symptoms of the coronavirus, that’s to say a temperature and persistent cough, and on the advice of the chief medical officer I’ve taken a test.

“That has come out positive so I am working form home. I’m self-isolating and that’s entirely the right thing to do. But be in no doubt that I can continue, thanks to wizardry of modern technology, to communicate with all my top team, to lead the national fightback against coronavirus.”

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This is a developing story and will be further updated.

U.K. Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced a nationwide ‘stay-at-home’ order Monday. Ian Vogler-WPA Pool/Getty

World Health Organization advice for avoiding spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19)

Hygiene advice

  • Clean hands frequently with soap and water, or alcohol-based hand rub.
  • Wash hands after coughing or sneezing; when caring for the sick; before, during and after food preparation; before eating; after using the toilet; when hands are visibly dirty; and after handling animals or waste.
  • Maintain at least 1 meter (3 feet) distance from anyone who is coughing or sneezing.
  • Avoid touching your hands, nose and mouth. Do not spit in public.
  • Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or bent elbow when coughing or sneezing. Discard the tissue immediately and clean your hands.

Medical advice

  • Avoid close contact with others if you have any symptoms.
  • Stay at home if you feel unwell, even with mild symptoms such as headache and runny nose, to avoid potential spread of the disease to medical facilities and other people.
  • If you develop serious symptoms (fever, cough, difficulty breathing) seek medical care early and contact local health authorities in advance.
  • Note any recent contact with others and travel details to provide to authorities who can trace and prevent spread of the disease.
  • Stay up to date on COVID-19 developments issued by health authorities and follow their guidance.

Mask and glove usage

  • Healthy individuals only need to wear a mask if taking care of a sick person.
  • Wear a mask if you are coughing or sneezing.
  • Masks are effective when used in combination with frequent hand cleaning.
  • Do not touch the mask while wearing it. Clean hands if you touch the mask.
  • Learn how to properly put on, remove and dispose of masks. Clean hands after disposing of the mask.
  • Do not reuse single-use masks.
  • Regularly washing bare hands is more effective against catching COVID-19 than wearing rubber gloves.
  • The COVID-19 virus can still be picked up on rubber gloves and transmitted by touching your face.