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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
Lifestyle
Isobel Lewis

John Bishop ‘flattened’ by Christmas Day coronavirus diagnosis: ‘This is the worst illness I have ever had’

Photograph: Getty Images

Comedian John Bishop has called coronavirus the “worst illness I have ever had” after receiving a positive test result on Christmas Day.

The stand-up revealed on Wednesday (30 December) that he and wife Melanie had tested positive for the illness earlier in the week, sharing a picture of his results on social media.

“This came through on Christmas Day,” Bishop captioned the post.

“This is the worst illness I have ever had, debilitating headaches, muscle joint and even skin pain, dizziness, nausea, no appetite, incredibly chronic fatigue like I didn’t know existed.

“My wife and I are fit non-smokers and it’s flattened us. I know statistics suggest a 99.9 per cent survival rate but that doesn’t mean I would wish this experience on anyone.”

The 54-year-old received an outpouring of support from fellow comedians, with Dara Ó Briain responding: “Jesus Bish, sorry to hear it, best of luck to both of you.”

Lenny Henry replied: “Please look after yourself big guy. Here's to a happier and healthier 21.”

“Sorry to hear,” comedian Milton Jones tweeted, adding: “Hope you can bounce back and get at least 10 minutes out of it.”

People who test positive for coronavirus are legally required to self-isolate for 10 days.

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