British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has been moved out of intensive care at St. Thomas’ Hospital in London, four days after being transferred to the unit to receive heightened observation for worsening coronavirus symptoms.
The move comes just hours after officials told the press that Mr. Johnson’s condition was “getting better.”
“The prime minister has been moved this evening from intensive care back to the ward, where he will receive close monitoring during the early phase of his recovery,” a Downing street spokesperson told British news outlet The Guardian Thursday afternoon. “He is in extremely good spirits.”
Mr. Johnson tested positive for COVID-19, the diseased caused by the new coronavirus, on March 26 and had quarantined at his residence but was admitted to the hospital on Sunday and moved to the ICU Monday after his symptoms worsened. He received oxygen treatment, but he had not required a ventilator.
British Foreign Minister Dominic Raab has been filling in for Mr. Johnson since he was moved to the ICU.
U.S. President Trump quickly tweeted praise of the good news and sent his well wishes to the prime minister.
“Great News: Prime Minister Boris Johnson has just been moved out of Intensive Care. Get well Boris!!!” Mr. Trump tweeted.
The United Kingdom has reported 61,487 confirmed cases, 7,097 deaths and 351 recoveries from COVID-19, according to the Johns Hopkins University tracker. Britain has a population of 66.4 million.
• Lauren Toms can be reached at lmeier@washingtontimes.com.
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