UK Prime Minister Johnson Moved from ICU to General Ward as COVID-19 Symptoms Improve

[Image source=EPA Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Jeong Hyunjin] British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who was in the hospital intensive care unit due to the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19), has improved and was moved to a general ward on the 9th (local time).

According to reports, the UK Prime Minister's Office said, "The Prime Minister was moved from the intensive care bed to a general bed this evening," adding, "He will be closely monitored in the early stages of recovery." The Prime Minister's Office added, "He is in very good spirits."

Johnson, who disclosed his COVID-19 diagnosis on the 27th of last month, entered self-isolation but was hospitalized at St Thomas' Hospital in London on the evening of the 5th as symptoms persisted for ten days. His condition worsened again, and he was moved to the intensive care unit around 7 p.m. on the 6th.

Matt Hancock, UK Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, said, "I am very pleased to hear that Prime Minister Johnson has left intensive care and is on the road to recovery," adding, "The National Health Service (NHS) exists for all of us, and I know that Prime Minister Johnson is receiving world-class treatment." Nicola Sturgeon, First Minister of the Scottish Government, wrote on Twitter, "Good news," and Liz Truss, Secretary of State for International Trade, responded, "Wonderful news."

US President Donald Trump also tweeted on the same day, "Very good news: Prime Minister Boris Johnson has just been moved out of intensive care," adding, "Boris, get well soon!!!"

During Prime Minister Johnson's absence, Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab is acting on his behalf. The BBC reported that it is too early to predict when Johnson will fully recover and return to work, and that the medical team will decide. At a press conference that day, Secretary Raab urged people to stay indoors during the Easter period and said that as the results of the three-week lockdown are beginning to show, people should not ruin it.