Boris Johnson moved to intensive care unit after coronavirus symptoms worsen
Boris Johnson was admitted to hospital on Sunday evening.
2 min read
Boris Johnson has been moved to an intensive care unit after his coronavirus symptoms worsened.
Downing Street said the decision had been taken on the advice of the medical team which has been looking after him since he was admitted to hospital on Sunday night.
Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab, the Prime Minister's de facto deputy, will now stand in for him.
Mr Johnson was first diagnosed with Covid-19 11 days ago and had been due to emerge from self-isolation last Friday.
However, he remained behind closed doors after his symptoms - a cough and high temperature - persisted.
A Number 10 spokesman said: "Since Sunday evening, 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 has asked Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab, who is the First Secretary of State, to deputise for him where necessary.
"The PM is receiving excellent care, and thanks all NHS staff for their hard work and dedication."
Downing Street sources said Mr Johnson was moved to intensive care at around 7pm as a precaution in case he requires ventilation. He remains conscious, they added.
Earlier, Mr Johnson had insisted he was in "good sprits" following his first night in hospital.
And at the daily Downing Street press conference, Mr Raab had brushed aside suggestions that he would have to step in to take over the PM's responsibilities - although he admitted he had not spoken to him since Saturday.
He said: "The PM is in charge, he is leading the government and giving directions as and when required."
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