BBC News
Published
image captionMohammed Javed spent nine days in intensive care at Stockton s North Tees Hospital
A mayor who survived Covid-19 and spent nine days in intensive care has urged people to take the virus seriously.
Mohammed Javed took on the ceremonial role for Stockton in June, becoming the first Asian man to hold the post.
Describing his virus ordeal, Mr Javed said he felt like somebody was pounding on him and he couldn t lift himself up.
He thanked medical staff at North Tees Hospital and said he was very touched by messages of support.
One of those who wished him well, calling for prayers while he was in hospital, was the Mayor of London Sadiq Khan.