Comedian John Bishop says coronavirus is 'worst illness I have ever had'

John Bishop performs during the Teenage Cancer Trust comedy night, at the Royal Albert Hall, London. (Photo by Matt Crossick/PA Images via Getty Images)
John Bishop (PA Images via Getty Images)

Comedian John Bishop has told how he has been “wiped” out by the coronavirus, calling it the “worst illness” he has ever had.

The 54-year-old former footballer fell ill over the festive period and received his positive test results on Christmas Day. Bishop’s wife Melanie is also battling COVID.

The star shared his message from the NHS on Instagram as he listed his symptoms for fans.

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“This came through on Christmas Day,” wrote Bishop.

“This has been the worst illness I have ever had.

“Incredible headaches, muscle and joint point, no appetite, nausea, dizziness, chronic fatigue like I didn't know existed.

“My wife and I are fit non smokers and this has wiped us out.”

The father-of-three said although statistics suggest a high survival rate “that doesn't mean I would wish this experience on anyone”.

He added on Twitter that he and Melanie had been “flattened” by it.

John Bishop and Melanie Bishop attending the RSPCA Animal Champions Honours at BAFTA in London (Photo by Brett Cove / SOPA Images/Sipa USA)
John and Melanie Bishop (SOPA Images/Sipa USA)

Bishop was inundated with messages from fans and celebrity friends after revealing his diagnosis.

“Get well pal,” football star Robbie Keane posted on Instagram, while Jamie Redknapp wrote: “Hope all ok bish.”

TV star Gabby Logan wrote: “So sorry to hear this JB loads of love from the Logans.”

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Sharing a heart emoji, Top Gear star Paddy McGuinness posted: “Hope you and Mel are both getting better every day pal. Loads of love to the family.”

“Sounds awful. Hope you both have a speedy recovery,” added Line Of Duty actor Vicky McClure.

John and Melanie have been married since 1993 and have three sons together.

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