Senior West Midlands Police officer in intensive care with coronavirus symptoms
A West Midlands Police chief superintendent is in intensive care on a ventilator after showing symptoms of coronavirus.
Chief Supt Phil Dolby posted about having symptoms on Friday saying he had "never been ill like this before", but thanked colleagues for leaving cakes on his doorstep.
He then posted an update the next day saying breathing was becoming "increasingly difficult" and he was being put on steroids.
The tweet said: "Day 7 - breathing increasingly difficult and worrying. Rang 111 and the doctor was EXCELLENT.
"Discussed hospital but going to try some steroids first. Had some anxious moments in last 24 hours. I’ve looked better too!
"Temperature of 37.9 but somehow still feel really cold. "
Chief Supt Dolby, who works in the force's Criminal Justice Services, then posted a video from hospital on Sunday night and said he was being tested for cornavirus.
It said: "Late Day 7. Some frightening episodes of breathlessness and dizziness. 111 called an ambo. Conveyed by West Midlands Ambulance Service to hospital.
"Now got oxygen mask, canulars, blood test, Covid tests, chest x-ray and some snory neighbours. Shame as it is daughters 15th birthday today."
And this afternoon the Firearms Operations Unit tweeted saying: "Update on Phil Dolby, he is currently in an ITU on a ventilator and is being looked after by the amazing @NHSuk.
"Positive thoughts and prayers for him please. "
A spokesman for West Midlands Police said: "Following on from a recent Twitter post by Chief Superintendent Phil Dolby where he described being unwell for several days and being taken into hospital, we were informed yesterday that Phil is now on a ventilator in intensive care.
"ACC Chris Johnson remains in continuous contact with Phil’s wife and family who have asked for friends and colleagues to keep Phil in their thoughts and to pray for him."
