Boris Johnson In Intensive Care – British P.M.’s Coronavirus Condition ‘Worsens’

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has been transferred to the ICU. At 7.pm. local London time on Monday, the 55-year-old head of state was placed in the British capital St. Thomas’ Hospital’s intensive care unit as his coronavirus symptoms worsen. Johnson confirmed he had tested positive for COVID-19 11 days ago, with his pregnant fiancée also experiencing symptoms.

Reports state the British P.M. to be conscious, with sources at 10 Downing Street’s office saying that the critical care unit move was a precautionary one should the country’s leader require a ventilator. Foreign secretary Dominic Raab has been asked to step up as deputy “where necessary.”

Boris had announced his COVID-19 contraction with a message to the 66.4 million Brits he leads.

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

On Monday evening, a U.K. government spokesperson released the following statement.

“The prime minister has been under the care of doctors at St Thomas’ Hospital, in London, after being admitted with persistent symptoms of coronavirus. Over the course of this afternoon, the condition of the prime minister has worsened and, on the advice of his medical team, he has been moved to the intensive care unit at the hospital.”

“The PM is receiving excellent care, and thanks all NHS staff for their hard work and dedication,” it added.

Johnson’s move to intensive care comes less than 24 hours after Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II made a landmark televised address – the 93-year-old monarch is known to only address her subjects during her annual Christmas speech, having broken the pattern only four other times. With Sunday’s U.K. coronavirus death toll reaching 4,934 and British headlines filled with dubbed “covidiots” defying government guidelines to social distance, the speech came welcomed amid those panicking over the virus’ spread.

Filmed in a secure setting with a single cameraman behind protective equipment, The Queen said:

“I am speaking to you at what I know is an increasingly challenging time. A time of disruption in the life of our country: a disruption that has brought grief to some, financial difficulties to many, and enormous changes to the daily lives of us all.”

“I want to thank everyone on the NHS front line, as well as care workers and those carrying out essential roles, who selflessly continue their day-to-day duties outside the home in support of us all,” she added, also urging the public to fight through this challenging time, alongside thanking those who have gone out of their way to support the vulnerable and needy.

Boris Johnson’s shift to intensive care comes just nine hours after he Tweeted being transferred from home self-isolation to hospital. His words were upbeat and hopeful.

“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.”