Shutterstock
Boris Johnson, the Prime Minister of the UK, was admitted to the ICU earlier this week for COVID-19. His symptoms had progressed to a critical case, requiring him to receive intensive care in order to survive. The Prime Minister, who narrowly won his position late last year, was given words of support from many politicians on both sides of the aisle.
While millions of Americans struggle with short term health care insurance costs, people in England have the benefit of being able to use their National Health Service. The same service that PM Johnson received is the service any British citizen would receive. This is a major point of contention among progressives in the US, who take issue with the American for-profit healthcare system.
The UK has seen over 70,000 confirmed cases and has reported some nearly 9,000 deaths from the virus. This means that, while not as adversely affected as Spain and Italy, the UK has had a rougher toll than the US.
Reports hold that, after being bedridden for days, Johnson is now able to walk short distances. He is still easily winded and relying on medical attention, however.
“The Prime Minister has been able to do short walks, between periods of rest, as part of the care he is receiving to aid his recovery,” said a spokesperson for the PM.
“He has spoken to his doctors and thanks the whole clinical team for the incredible care he has received,” the spokesperson continued.
This experience has been important for Johnson, as it has given him perspective on what the virus does to people. “His thoughts are with those affected by this terrible disease.”
Johnson is only now starting on the road to recovery. While he left the ICU, he will remain in the hospital. Doctors will monitor his condition going forward. He won’t be heading to the UK Prime Minister’s countryside home, Chequers, for fear of spreading the novel coronavirus.
Since his incapacitation, Johnson handed his reigns in government to Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab. Raab is handling the governmental responsibilities that would normally fall to Johnson in this time of pandemic.
According to people close to Johnson, he is in very good spirits as he begins his recovery. While he required three days of standard oxygen treatment, he never needed invasive or mechanical options for ventilation. They fully expect him to be his gregarious self very soon.
