Boris Johnson and Health Secretary Matt Hancock have now both tested positive for COVID-19, as both MPs announced via Twitter today. They have come under fire from members of the public for receiving quick testing whilst withholding widespread tests. 

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People have taken to Twitter to voice their distaste that Boris Johnson and Matt Hancock were able to receive expedited tests for COVID-19. 

They argue thousands of frontline health workers require tests first, and they have been unfairly treated by the government.

However, others have defended the politicians, saying their positions necessitate quick tests. 

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Brexiteer organisation the Bruges group said the Prime Minister was given priority as his decisions will “save lives”. 

They said via Twitter: “Boris was tested because he’s the PM.

“He is leading our country through a time of crisis. He is coordinating and directing the national response.

“The decisions he makes will save lives. Of course he should have testing priority.”

Others have reacted with anger at the news, stating the “mild symptoms” shouldn’t have warranted testing while those with more severe symptoms go without. 

One Twitter user said: “He may be leading, but he displayed mild symptoms like the seasonal flu, symptoms which weren’t enough for anyone else to be tested.

“The NHS workers, the volunteers, they’re the ones saving lives.

“Why can’t they be tested?”

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Those suffering from the symptoms have also spoken out, having waited weeks for a government response. 

Another user said: “Cool to know that BJ was tested for ‘mild symptoms’ after one day, while my Mum and I are on day 15 of mild to moderate symptoms and won’t be tested.”

One doctor tweeted health workers need tests as a “matter of extreme urgency” as the pandemic wears on. 

They said: “I’m sorry to hear that you’ve tested positive for COVID-19. NHS workers need appropriate PPE and regular testing as a matter of extreme urgency. The current situation will cost many, many lives.”

The UK is currently in the midst of a government-ordered lockdown, as cases continue to march upwards.

The government has come under fire for only testing patients in hospital for COVID-19, with kits unavailable to the general public.

Public Health England (PHE) recently announced home testing would eventually be available for British people, with 15-minute kits available on the high street or via Amazon. 

Prof Sharon Peacock, director of the national infection service at PHE said the kits could be available within days.

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