WASHINGTON:British Prime Minister Boris Johnson was moved to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of a London hospital late on Monday. Johnson was diagnosed with COVID-19 nearly 10 days back after he had developed symptoms of the infection. He was moved to the ICU of St. Thomas’ Hospital after his coronavirus symptoms dramatically worsened, a day after he was admitted for what were said to be routine tests. With this, the British Prime Minister became the first major leader to be confirmed to have the virus. According to his office statement, Boris Johnson was conscious and did not require ventilation, but he was moved into intensive care in case he needs it later.
Britain has no official post of deputy prime minister, but Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab has been designated to take over should Johnson become incapacitated.
A grave-looking Raab said Johnson was “in safe hands” at the hospital, which is treating many virus patients.“The government’s business will continue,” Raab said. He said Johnson had asked him “to deputize for him were needed in driving forward the government’s plans to defeat coronavirus. The deterioration of Johnson’s health took many in Britain by surprise. Hoursearlier, he had tweeted that he was in good spirits and thanked the National Health Service for taking care of him and others with the disease.
“On the advice of my doctor, I went into the hospital for some routine tests as I’m still experiencing coronavirus symptoms,” Johnsonsaid in the tweet. He said he was keeping in touch with his team “as we work together to fight this virus and keep everyone safe.”The prime minister’s spokesman said earlier Monday that Johnson had spent a comfortable night andremained in charge of government after being admitted to the hospital because his cough and fever persisted.
News that Johnson had been transferred to intensive care drew an outpouring of support from around the world.
U.S. President Donald Trump said, “Americans are all praying for his recovery.”
“He’s been a really good friend,” Trump said during a White House press briefing. “He’s been really something very special — strong,resolute, doesn’t quit, doesn’t give up.”
Johnson was admitted to the hospital as a message to the nation from Queen Elizabeth II was being broadcast Sunday evening. The 93-year-old monarch urged the public to show resolve and follow advice to stay inside.
Johnson delegating Raab to fill in for him clarifies things for now, but it does not mean Raab would automatically take over permanently should a new leader be needed.
Jill Rutter of political think-tank U.K. in a Changing Europe, said Johnson’s illness should spur rival Cabinet ministers to unite and show that “they don’t require him there to actually be a functioning government.”