Boris Johnson has tested positive for coronavirus and is self-isolating

Boris Johnson has entered a period of self-isolation in Downing Street after testing positive for coronavirus.

The Prime Minister was tested after experiencing ‘mild symptoms’ yesterday.

In a video message posted online, he said: “I am working from home and self-isolating and that’s entirely the right thing to do.

“But be in no doubt, I will continue, thanks to the wizardry of modern technology, to communicate with all of my top team to lead the national fightback against coronavirus.”

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 pic.twitter.com/9Te6aFP0Ri

— Boris Johnson #StayHomeSaveLives (@BorisJohnson) March 27, 2020

A Downing Street spokesperson said: “After experiencing mild symptoms yesterday, the Prime Minister was tested for coronavirus on the personal advice of England’s Chief Medical Officer, Professor Chris Whitty.

“The test was carried out in No 10 by NHS staff and the result of the test was positive.

“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.”

Should Mr Johnson’s condition progress beyond mild symptoms, leaving him incapacitated, Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab would take over his duties until he’s fit to resume them.