Coronavirus: Covid-19 survivor receives guard of honour from Leicester hospital staff

Hylton Murray-Philipson spent two weeks in hospital after suffering nine days of having a dry cough and fever.

Despite initial support with oxygen, he unfortunately deteriorated and was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit for seven days.

During his admission he was treated for severe breathing difficulties and required ventilator support.

Once his condition had stabilised, he spent a week in recovery on Ward 23, one of the many medical wards that have been transformed in the last fortnight to help prepare for the surge in coronavirus cases.

The ward will accommodate COVID-19 positive patients leaving intensive care, as well as well as those from the emergency department at the Royal.

Mr Murray-Philipson who celebrated his birthday the day before being discharged said: “There is no limit to my gratitude both for the ICU and the nursing team throughout the hospital.

“They are truly amazing and I feel so lucky to have been under their care.”

Dr Chris Miller, consultant on the ward, said: “This is an example, not only of the care Mr Murray-Philipson has received on ward 23, but to the exceptional care that occurs across all our hospitals, every day of the week.

“After a very tough week, this has really been a light at the end of the tunnel.”

Andrew Furlong, medical director at the hospital, said: “We are discharging patients on a daily basis who have recovered from COVID-19.

“Our staff are providing amazing care and it’s a joy when we’re able to see patients well enough to leave our hospitals.

“The most important things that the public can do to protect themselves and support our team here at Leicester’s Hospitals is to follow the government’s social distancing guidance and regularly wash their hands with soap and water.”