British Prime Minister tests positive for coronavirus

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced on Friday that he is self-isolating after testing positive for COVID-19.

"Over the last 24 hours I have developed mild symptoms and tested positive for coronavirus," he said on Twitter.

"I am now self-isolating, but I will continue to lead the government's response via video-conference as we fight this virus."

At the moment, health authorities across the UK say equipment such as masks, gloves and gowns should only be used if patients have suspected symptoms or have been diagnosed with coronavirus.

"Be in no doubt that I can continue, thanks to the wizardry of modern technology to communicate with all my top team to lead the national fightback against coronavirus," he added in the video message.

A Downing Street spokesperson said in a statement that Johnson, whose partner Carrie Symonds is pregnant,  experienced mild symptoms on Thursday and was tested for COVID-19 on the personal advice of England's chief medical officer.

The test was carried out in No 10 by NHS staff, the spokesperson added.

In his video message, Johnson thanked workers in Britain's state-run National Health Service (NHS) for their efforts in battling the spread of the virus.

A total of 11,658 coronavirus cases have so far been confirmed in Britain, and 578 deaths.

Earlier this week Prince Charles, the eldest son and heir to Queen Elizabeth II, also tested positive for the virus.

The government confirmed this week that if Johnson was incapacitated, Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab would temporarily assume the role of prime minister. 

Coronavirus has been spreading rapidly across the world, affecting more than 175 countries and claiming more than 24,000 lives.

There are more than 537,000 confirmed cases worldwide, with the US now recording more than any other country, including China. Southern Europe has also seen a surge in cases.

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Meanwhile, US President Trump says there is "much respect" after calling President Xi of China. There had been tension after Mr Trump's use of the phrase "Chinese virus". The US now has more than 85,000 cases - overtaking China. More people with Covid-19 have died in China.