Boris Johnson in good spirits

Prime Minister Boris Johnson is out of intensive care as he continues to recover from a COVID-19 infection, but he remains under close observation in hospital.

The UK prime minister, who left ICU on Thursday evening, "remains in good spirits" according to an official spokesperson, who added that Johnson was still receiving standard oxygen treatment.

The official clarified that the prime minister was breathing on his own and did not need mechanical ventilation or non-invasive respiratory support.

Johnson, 55, was admitted to St Thomas’ Hospital late on Sunday after suffering persistent coronavirus symptoms, including a high temperature and a cough, for more than 10 days. He was rushed to the ICU on Monday with worsening coronavirus symptoms where he spent three nights receiving special treatment.

“The prime minister has been moved this evening from intensive care back to the ward, where he will receive close monitoring during the early phase of his recovery,” said an official statement.