Chief Medical Officer Chris Whitty is self-isolating after showing coronavirus symptoms.

Professor Whitty, who is a key figure in the UK’s battle against Covid-19, will continue to advise the government while supported by deputies as he remains at home for seven days.

In a statement, he said: ‘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. I will be continuing to advise the Government on the medical response to Coronavirus, supported by my deputies.

It comes after Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Health Secretary Matt Hancock tested positive for the illness earlier today.

Announcing the diagnosis on social media, Mr Johnson said he has mild symptoms, with a temperature and persistent cough.

He will still be in charge of the government’s handling of the crisis, leading the nation via video-conferences.

He said: ‘Hi folks I want to bring you up to speed with something that’s happening today which is I have developed mild symptoms of the coronavirus. That’s to say a temperature and persistent cough.

‘On the advice of the chief medical officer that has come out positive so I am working from home, self-isolating and that’s entirely the right thing to do.

‘But be in no doubt that thanks to the wizardry of modern technology I can continue to communicate with my top team to lead the national fightback against coronavirus.’

The prime minister’s pregnant partner Carrie Symonds is reportedly isolating alone in Camberwell, south London, with the couple’s dog, Dilyn.

Mr Hancock confirmed he had tested positive less than an hour later, saying he too would continue to work from home.

He said: ‘Following medical advice, I was advised to test for coronavirus. I’ve tested positive. Thankfully my symptoms are mild and I’m working from home and self-isolating.

‘I’ll be self-isolating here until next Thursday. I want to say a massive thank you to everybody in the NHS and social care working across the board on the response.

‘I’ll be doing everything I can to get our carers the support they need from here. Vital we follow the advice to protect our NHS and save lives.’

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