British PM Boris Johnson out of intensive care as his condition improves

LONDON: British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has moved out of intensive care at London Hospital as he continues to recover from coronavirus

Earlier on Sunday, Boris Johnson was admitted to St Thomas’ Hospital with a persistent high temperature and cough, and was rushed to intensive care on Monday where he spent three nights receiving treatment.

A spokesman from his office said in an emailed statement, “He is moved from intensive care back to the ward, where he will receive close monitoring during the early phase of his recovery.” His office further said, “He is in extremely good spirits,”

In this regard, United States President Donald Trump tweeted that the improvement in Johnson’s condition was “great news”. Johnson’s ongoing recovery prompted a small rise in the value of sterling against the dollar.

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

— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) April 9, 2020

However, the government statement did not give any details on when Johnson may be able to resume leadership.

Johnson was the first world leader to be hospitalised with the coronavirus, forcing him to hand control of the UK to foreign minister Dominic Raab.

In the UK, there is also concern over the numbers of people infected with the virus, with the government set to extend a lockdown implemented on March 23.

So far, coronavirus has claimed lives of almost 7,978, across the country and has affected more than 65,000 people.