Boris Johnson tests positive for coronavirus

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has tested positive for COVID-19.

He announced the news on Twitter, saying he has mild symptoms and will now self-isolate.

Johnson added that he will continue to lead the government’s response to the crisis via video-conference.

"The prime minister was tested for coronavirus on the personal advice of England's Chief Medical Officer, Professor Chris Whitty," a Downing Street spokesman said.

There are more than 11,600 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the UK, and 578 people have died.

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 (@BorisJohnson) March 27, 2020