Boris Johnson 'walking and making progress' while still in hospital

9 April 2020, 19:20

By Nick Hardinges

@NHardinges

Prime Minister Boris Johnson is walking about and "making very good progress" after leaving intensive care on Thursday night, his spokesman said.

Mr Johnson had spent three nights in intensive care after his condition deteriorated following a positive coronavirus diagnosis.

On Saturday, a Downing Street spokesperson said the UK leader is continuing "to make very good progress" despite still being in hospital.

A No 10 spokesman had previously announced on Friday: “The Prime Minister has been able to do short walks, between periods of rest, as part of the care he is receiving to aid his recovery.

“He has spoken to his doctors and thanks the whole clinical team for the incredible care he has received.

“His thoughts are with those affected by this terrible disease.”

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Boris Johnson tests positive for coronavirus

On Thursday, we learned the prime minister was continuing to improve after having a "good night" in hospital.

US President Donald Trump took to Twitter to congratulate the UK leader on pulling through.

He wrote: "Great News: Prime Minister Boris Johnson has just been moved out of Intensive Care. Get well Boris!!!"

The 55-year-old leader was diagnosed with Covid-19 thirteen days ago and was admitted to St Thomas' in London on Sunday.

But after his condition deteriorated throughout Monday afternoon, he was taken to ICU that evening.

He remained under the watchful eye of NHS staff in the ward but did not need to be placed on to a ventilator.

It comes after Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab, who had been standing in as the prime minister's deputy, said that he had not spoken to Mr Johnson since taking over his responsibilities.

Mr Raab insisted his friend and colleague should focus on his recovery.

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The foreign secretary added he has "got all the authority I need" to make decisions along with his Cabinet colleagues.

Earlier, No 10 said the prime minister "continues to improve" after a "good night" and thanked the NHS for the "brilliant care" he has received.

The weekly "claps for carers" have been providing "wonderful, unifying moments" for the country, while it is hoped millions will turn out again at 8pm, his spokesman added.

Mr Raab was expected to instead take part in the show of support for health staff.

Boris Johnson was last seen in public clapping for NHS workers in Downing Street last Thursday.

Chancellor Rishi Sunak announced the first big breakthrough in the prime minister's health today when he said Mr Johnson was now "sitting up in bed" and "engaging positively" with medics.