Boris Johnson waved to NHS as a gesture of thanks while he was being moved out of intensive care, Downing Street said today.
The statement is a rare glimpse into the Prime Minister's condition as he begins his recovery from severe Covid-19 at St Thomas' Hospital in London.
After three days in intensive care, Mr Johnson was moved out onto a ward last night shortly before the 8pm 'Clap for Carers'.
Today his spokesman said: "The Prime Minister is back on a ward and continuing his recovery which is at an early stage. He continues to be in very good spirits."
Downing Street later added: "The Prime Minister has been able to do short walks, between periods of rest, as part of the care he is receiving to aid his recovery.
“He has spoken to his doctors and thanks the whole clinical team for the incredible care he has received.
“His thoughts are with those affected by this terrible disease.”
Downing Street has refused to comment in much detail on Mr Johnson's state - including whether he has spoken directly to colleagues or used a phone.
However, the No10 spokesman added: "I’m told he was waving his thanks to all the nurses and doctors he saw and he was being moved from the intensive care unit back to the ward."
No10 could not say whether he was able to speak, but said the PM has made "friendly gestures" before.
Asked if there was more than a wave, for example a thumbs-up, the spokesman said: "As the Prime Minister was being taken back to the ward from intensive care unit he was waving to the staff.
"Hopefully it was clear to the staff that he was waving his gratitude.”
The Sun reports he phoned his heavily pregnant fiancee Carrie Symonds as soon as doctors handed him back his phones.
Mr Johnson's father Stanley today said his son almost "took one for the team" and his illness should highlight how anyone can be laid low by Covid-19.
Downing Street has not commented on when the PM might be discharged from hospital, saying it will be a decision for his doctors.
Mr Johnson Senior has suggested the PM - who experts say could taken weeks to recover full health - should recuperate at his grace-and-favour country retreat Chequers.
Lockdown guidance from the government says people should remain in their "primary residence" if possible.
Downing Street today said there was not currently a plan for Mr Johnson to relocate to the Buckinghamshire manor.
"It’s only last night that the Prime Minister left the intensive care unit," the spokesman said.
"He’s at the beginning of his recovery and the Prime Minister will want to take the advice of his medical team on all those matters."
He is not planning to post a photo or video from hospital today, Downing Street said.
