British Prime Minister Boris Johnson was taken to hospital in London on Sunday evening, (April 6 morning, Singapore time), after showing persistent symptoms of Covid-19.

Tested positive for Covid-19 more than one week ago

Johnson previously tested positive for the virus around 10 days ago, after showing "mild symptoms", said a statement from Number 10 Downing Street, the Prime Minister's office and residence.

He also said in a tweet that he will be working from home, and isolating himself.

Over the last 24 hours I have developed mild symptoms and tested positive for coronavirus.

I am now self-isolating, but I will continue to lead the government’s response via video-conference as we fight this virus.

Together we will beat this. #StayHomeSaveLives pic.twitter.com/9Te6aFP0Ri

— Boris Johnson (@BorisJohnson) March 27, 2020

Hospitalisation a 'precautionary step'

However, he was admitted to a hospital on the advice of his doctor after showing persistent symptoms for more than a week, including a fever, reported BBC.

In a statement, a Downing Street spokeswoman said: "On the advice of his doctor, the prime minister has tonight been admitted to hospital for tests."

"This is a precautionary step, as the prime minister continues to have persistent symptoms of coronavirus 10 days after testing positive for the virus."

U.S. President Donald Trump began a White House press briefing by sending "our nation's well wishes" for Johnson's "own personal fight with the virus".

"All Americans are praying for him. He's a great friend of mine, a great gentleman and a great leader," Trump said.

Trump added that he was sure Johnson would be fine because he is "a strong person".

Weeks before his diagnosis, he said in a public address that he was shaking hands with Covid-19 patients, insisting that people would be "pleased to know" that the virus would not stop him from greeting hospital patients with a handshake.

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