Coronavirus: Chief medical officer Chris Whitty self-isolating after showing Covid-19 symptoms

Chief medical adviser says he will still be guiding the government on the crisis while he self-isolates

Chris Whitty, England’s chief medical officer, has announced he is suffering from coronavirus symptoms.

Prof Whitty, 53, who has been at the forefront of the public guidance on symptoms and social distancing, said he would be self-isolating for seven days.

He revealed the news just hours after Boris Johnson and health secretary Matt Hancock also announced they had tested positive for Covid-19.

In a tweet, Prof Whitty said he would be continuing to advise the government on the medical response to coronavirus, supported by his 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,” he wrote. “I will be continuing to advise the government on the medical response to coronavirus, supported by my deputies.”

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The professor, who is also the Department of Health and Social Care’s chief scientific adviser and the government’s chief medical adviser, found himself suddenly elevated to one of the highest profile roles in the UK when coronavirus reached the country.

He has regularly stood alongside Boris Johnson and Sir Patrick Vallance, the government’s chief scientific adviser, issuing updates and answering reporters’ questions.

Sir Patrick tweeted that he did not have symptoms.

“I have no #Covid-19 symptoms so I have not been tested. I will continue following guidelines including social distancing and hand washing,” Sir Patrick said.

The country’s top medical and scientific advisers have been integral to formulating the government’s response to Covid-19.

The prime minister and Mr Hancock have regularly met Professor Whitty and Jenny Harries, his deputy.

Prof Whitty has won widespread praise for his calm, unassuming manner. Dozens of other Twitter users rushed to wish him well.

Earlier on Friday, the official UK death toll from coronavirus stood at 759.