England Reports 50,000 Daily COVID-19 Cases, Health Secretary Also Tests Positive

▲Sajid Javid, UK Secretary of Health and Social Care [Image source=Reuters Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kwon Jae-hee] In the UK, where more than 50,000 new COVID-19 cases are reported daily, the Health Secretary has also been confirmed positive.

According to the BBC on the 17th (local time), Sajid Javid, the UK Health Secretary, tested positive on a rapid COVID-19 test and is currently undergoing a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test, awaiting the results.

Secretary Javid wrote on Twitter, "I tested positive on a COVID-19 test and am waiting for the PCR results," adding, "Fortunately, I have received two vaccine doses and my symptoms are mild." He also urged, "If you haven't been vaccinated yet, please make sure to get vaccinated."

He said he felt significant fatigue the previous night, which prompted him to get tested, and he is currently self-isolating at home with his family.

Javid was appointed as the new Health Secretary last month.

In the UK, new cases have surged due to the spread of the Delta variant, exceeding 50,000 yesterday. Nevertheless, England and other regions plan to lift most COVID-19 restrictions, including indoor mask mandates and social distancing, starting from the 19th.

In the UK, former Health Secretary Matt Hancock was also infected early in the COVID-19 crisis last year, and Prime Minister Boris Johnson was confirmed positive and went through a critical period.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.