UK Prime Minister Johnson Tests Positive for COVID-19... First Among National Leaders (Comprehensive)

[Image source=AP Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Seulgina Jo] British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has tested positive for the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19). This is the first case of a national leader testing positive for COVID-19.

On the 27th (local time), according to Bloomberg News and others, the UK government announced that Prime Minister Johnson tested positive for COVID-19. Johnson is currently self-isolating at the Downing Street Prime Minister's residence.

In a video posted on his Twitter, Johnson said, "I have mild symptoms such as coughing and fever due to COVID-19 infection," adding, "I am currently working from home (the residence), self-isolating, and this is absolutely the right thing to do."

However, he emphasized, "Thanks to the magic of modern technology, I can communicate with our team and continue to lead the national fight against COVID-19," highlighting that he is directing the government's COVID-19 response. The UK government also included this information in the statement announcing Johnson's positive diagnosis. Johnson also participated in the G20 special virtual summit on COVID-19 response the day before.

Johnson urged the public to maintain social distancing, saying, "We must overcome this together." He also expressed gratitude to the NHS staff fighting on the front lines of the COVID-19 response.

Bloomberg News added that if Johnson is unable to perform his duties, the Foreign Secretary and the Secretary of State will take over. After the news of Johnson's positive test was announced, the British pound weakened against the US dollar. Earlier, Charles Windsor, the first in line to the British throne, also tested positive for COVID-19.

Local media expect a high possibility of additional positive cases among staff at the Prime Minister's residence as well as cabinet members. Those mentioned include Chancellor of the Exchequer Rishi Sunak, Health Secretary Matt Hancock, and Chief Medical Officer Chris Whitty, who recently had contact with Johnson. As of 9 a.m. the previous day, the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in the UK exceeded 10,000, reaching 11,658.