UK prime minister Boris Johnson has tested positive for the coronavirus after developing mild symptoms of COVID-19 and is now self-isolating in Downing Street.

"After experiencing mild symptoms yesterday, the prime minister was tested for coronavirus on the personal advice of England’s chief medical officer, Professor Chris Whitty," a Number 10 spokesperson said in a statement on Friday morning.



"The test was carried out in No 10 by NHS staff and the result of the test was positive. In keeping with the guidance, the prime minister is self-isolating in Downing Street. He is continuing to lead the government’s response to coronavirus."

Following the prime minister's announcement, the UK's health secretary Matt Hancock said that he had also tested positive for COVID-19. Hancock said his own symptoms were "very mild" and that he was able to continue working from home while he self-isolates.

England's chief medical officer Chris Whitty — who has appeared alongside Johnson at news conferences in recent weeks — said he was also experiencing symptoms and was self-isolating.