Queen Elizabeth II has tested positive for Covid-19 and is experiencing “mild cold-like symptoms”, Buckingham Palace confirmed on Sunday.
The 95-year-old monarch had previously been in contact with her son and heir to the throne, the Prince of Wales, who tested positive on February 10, two days after meeting his mother. His wife, the Duchess of Cornwall, tested positive last week.
“Buckingham Palace confirm that The Queen has today tested positive for Covid,” said a statement from the palace. “Her Majesty is experiencing mild cold-like symptoms but expects to continue light duties at Windsor over the coming week. She will continue to receive medical attention and will follow all the appropriate guidelines.”
The Queen, who is turning 96 in April, recently became the first British monarch to mark a platinum jubilee, signifying 70 years of service as the head of state. The event is due to be celebrated with a four-day bank holiday weekend spanning June 2 to June 5 this year.
Queen Elizabeth is Britain’s longest-serving monarch, having ascended to the throne at the age of 25 in 1952.
Political figures from across the spectrum on Sunday wished the monarch a swift recovery.
“I’m sure I speak for everyone in wishing Her Majesty The Queen a swift recovery from Covid and a rapid return to vibrant good health,” Prime Minister Boris Johnson wrote on Twitter.
Labour party leader Sir Keir Starmer said: “On behalf of myself and the whole of @UKLabour, wishing Her Majesty The Queen good health and a speedy recovery. Get well soon, Ma’am.”
London mayor Sadiq Khan wished the Queen a “swift and safe recovery”, adding: “The commitment Her Majesty the Queen has shown to our country continues to be unwavering.”
The news comes ahead of an expected announcement by Johnson on Monday that all coronavirus restrictions across England will be scrapped.
The legal requirement for individuals to self-isolate following a positive Covid test will be removed, while testing provisions will be scaled back, measures that have been criticised by some within the health community.
“We’re certainly not asking people to throw caution to the winds”, Johnson said in an interview with the BBC. “Covid remains a dangerous disease, particularly if you haven’t been vaccinated.”
