PM Johnson given oxygen support, spends night in intensive care

Johnson was admitted into St. Thomas' hospital on Sunday evening, and was brought into intensive care on Monday.

According to Sky News political editor Beth Rigby, Johnson "had to be given oxygen" and was "struggling to breathe."

A minister confirmed that Johnson was not put on a ventilator.

Upon his admittance into intensive care, Number 10 published a statement reading: "The PM has asked Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab, who is the First Secretary of State, to deputize for him where necessary. The PM is receiving excellent care, and thanks all NHS staff for their hard work and dedication."

Johnson, 55, announced on his Twitter that he had tested positive for the virus 11 days ago.

Johnson said he was in "good spirits" and was continuing his work as leader of the government hours before being admitted to ICU.

Johnson, 55, thanked "the brilliant [National Health Service] staff taking care of me and others in this difficult time."

Misinformation abounds

Downing Street slammed a state-owned Russian media outlet for reporting that Johnson would require a ventilator, citing a "source close to the leadership" of the NHS.

Johnson's spokesperson callde the reporting "disinformation."

"Our specialist government units have seen a rise in false and misleading narratives since the coronavirus pandemic started."

"It's vital that any disinformation is knocked down quickly."