Updated: Whitty self-isolating while Hancock tests positive for covid-19

Chris Whitty announced on Twitter he would be self-isolating at home for the next seven days after ”experiencing symptoms compatible with covid-19 last night”. He added he would continue ”to advise the government on the medical response to coronavirus, supported by my deputies”.

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.

— Professor Chris Whitty (@CMO_England) March 27, 2020

Earlier today, Matt Hancock confirmed on social media he has been working from home over the past couple of days after experiencing mild symptoms of the virus.

He said he will “carry on” with work on the UK’s response to covid-19 and expects to be back in the office next Thursday.

In a video message on Twitter, Mr Hancock said: “I’ve… had some mild symptoms of coronavirus and, upon medical advice, I was tested and that test has been positive so I will be self-isolating here until next Thursday.

“Fortunately for me the symptoms so far have been very mild, so I’ve been able to carry on with the work [of] driving forward the UK response.

“I’ll be continuing to do everything I can to get our carers the support that they need, and I’ll be doing that from here but with no less gusto.

“Then from next Thursday, once I’m out of self-isolation, and I hope with no more symptoms, then I will be able to get back stuck in and into the office where necessary.”

Also today, Downing Street confirmed prime minister Boris Johnson has tested positive for coronavirus.

Updated: This story was updated at 5pm on 27 March to add details of Professor Whitty’s isolation.