[Asia Economy Reporter Jeong Hyunjin] British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who was diagnosed with the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19) and was quarantined at his official residence, was admitted to a hospital on the 5th (local time) to undergo testing, according to reports by The Guardian and others.
According to the reports, the UK Prime Minister's Office explained that Johnson visited the hospital because his symptoms had not disappeared even ten days after testing positive for COVID-19.
The Prime Minister's Office acknowledged, "Following the advice of his physician, the Prime Minister was admitted to the hospital tonight for testing." They added, "The Prime Minister expressed gratitude to the National Health Service (NHS) staff who are performing incredibly difficult work and urged the public to continue following the government's guidance to stay at home, protect the NHS, and save lives."
Johnson was the first among major world leaders to test positive for COVID-19 on the 27th of last month and has been working while quarantined at the Downing Street residence. The Prime Minister's Office stated that he has been maintaining continuous contact with relevant ministers and officials as the head of government.
One British media outlet reported that if Johnson becomes unable to perform his duties, his position will likely be filled by Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab. The daily government meeting on COVID-19 response scheduled for the 6th will be chaired by Raab due to Johnson's absence.
Meanwhile, the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in the UK currently stands at 47,806, with 4,934 deaths.
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