COVID-19: UK mass applause in support of healthcare workers

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson and his next-door neighbour, Treasury chief Rishi Sunak were among those who joined in with applause for Thursday evening's "Clap For Carers" initiative. At least 578 people have died in the country after testing positive for COVID-19.

London: City landmarks were lit in blue as residents across the UK applauded everyone in the country's National Health Service for their work in fighting the coronavirus pandemic.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson and his next-door neighbour, Treasury chief Rishi Sunak were among those who joined in with applause for Thursday evening's "Clap For Carers" initiative.

Elsewhere, residents took to their windows and front porches to show their support for NHS workers.

Aerials filmed over the capital showed iconic landmarks such as the London Eye and the Shard displaying blue lights, the NHS' brand colour.

At least 578 people have died in the country after testing positive for COVID-19, according to government figures.

For most people, the virus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as a fever and cough that clears up in two to three weeks.

For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia and death.