LONDON — British Prime Minister Boris Johnson was on Monday moved to intensive care in hospital after his coronavirus symptoms "worsened," news reports said citing a press release from the Downing Street. The prime minister, 55, was admitted to London’s St. Thomas Hospital on Sunday with continuing to show symptoms of the coronavirus after testing positive on March 27. “Over the course of this afternoon, the condition of the prime minister has worsened and, on the advice of his medical team, he has been moved to the Intensive Care Unit at the hospital," said the press statement. "The PM is receiving excellent care, and thanks all NHS staff for their hard work and dedication," the statement added. According to the release, the premier has asked Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab to deputize "where necessary." In a televised statement earlier on Monday, Raab said Johnson was in "safe hands" and was receiving excellent care from a "brilliant team" at St. Thomas" Hospital. He added there was an "incredibly strong team spirit" in government behind the Prime Minister. The dramatic change in the leader"s health has shocked the nation, with politicians from his party and the opposition voicing their support, the US television network CNN reported. The leader of the country"s House of Commons, Lindsay Hoyle, said Johnson"s admission to intensive care was "terrible news." "I know the thoughts and prayers of everyone across the House are with the Prime Minister and his family right now. We all wish him a speedy recovery." Keir Starmer, the newly elected leader of the main opposition Labour Party said the development was "Terribly sad news." "All the country"s thoughts are with the Prime Minister and his family during this incredibly difficult time." — Agencies