UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson and the health secretary, Matt Hancock, have both tested positive for coronavirus and are experiencing mild symptoms.

In a tweet Johnson said he is now self-isolating but will continue to lead the government's response to COVID-19 via video-conference. He was followed on Friday by Hancock, also revealing via a tweet that he has the virus.

The prime minister said: "I have developed mild symptoms of the coronavirus, that is to say a temperature and a persistent cough, and on the advice of the chief medical officer I have taken a test, which has come out positive.

"So I am working from home and I am self-isolating, but be in no doubt that I can continue thanks to the wizardry of modern technology to communicate with my top team and lead the national fightback against coronavirus."

Johnson, 55, praised the NHS and said it was "very moving to be part of the national clapping that took place yesterday for all those involved in the medical service."

The prime minister said people need to keep following the UK government's guidelines on coronavirus including self-isolation and working from home.

He added: "The more effectively we all comply with those measures, the faster this country will come through this epidemic and the faster we'll bounce back."  

Hancock tweeted: "Following medical advice, I was advised to test for #coronavirus. I've tested positive. Thankfully my symptoms are mild and I'm working from home & self-isolating. Vital we follow the advice to protect our NHS & save lives."

Earlier this week, it was confirmed by the prime minister's spokesman that the foreign secretary, Dominic Raab, as the first secretary of state, was the chosen minister to cover for Johnson if he became unwell.

A Downing Street spokeswoman stated: "After experiencing mild symptoms yesterday, the prime minister was tested for coronavirus on the personal advice of England's chief medical officer, Professor Chris Whitty. The test was carried out in No 10 by NHS staff and the result of the test was positive.

"In keeping with the guidance, the prime minister is self-isolating in Downing Street. He is continuing to lead the government's response to coronavirus."

There are more than 11,600 confirmed cases of coronavirus in the UK and 578 people have died.

The mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, tweeted on Johnson's positive test: "Sorry to hear this and hope you feel better soon. Thank you for everything your government is doing to help us fight this.

"This is a reminder that anyone can get COVID-19. We must all follow the rules and stay at home to support our amazing NHS staff to save lives."