Narendra Modi termed Boris Johnson "a fighter" as he conveyed his "prayers" and "best wishes" to the British prime minister who had tested positive for COVID-19 on Friday (27).
"Dear PM @BorisJohnson, you're a fighter and you will overcome this challenge as well. Prayers for your good health and best wishes in ensuring a healthy UK," the Indian prime minister said, retweeting Johnson's announcement.
“Over the last 24 hours I have developed mild symptoms and tested positive for coronavirus,” Johnson said. “I am now self-isolating, but I will continue to lead the government’s response via video-conference as we fight this virus.”
Within a short while, Health Secretary Matt Hancock, too, confirmed that he had tested positive for coronavirus.
And by evening, Britain's chief medical officer, Professor Chris Whitty, said he was self-isolating, as he was having COVID-19 symptoms.
"After experiencing symptoms compatible with COVID-19 last night, in line with the guidance, I will be self-isolating at home for the next seven days," he said.
"I will be continuing to advise the government on the medical response to coronavirus, supported by my deputies."
Cabinet Office Minister Michael Gove, however, said Johnson's top team of ministers won't be tested for coronavirus unless they show symptoms.
Asked whether other cabinet ministers would automatically be tested, Gove said: "People are tested if they are symptomatic and those members of the central effort in helping to defeat the virus who do show symptoms are appropriately tested.
"But I think you can tell from the fact that the three of us are here that demonstrates that there are three of us who have not yet demonstrated any symptoms."
By Friday evening, the UK recorded 14,579 COVID-19 cases, and 759 deaths.
