President Donald Trump is to be taken to hospital less than 24 hours after revealing that he has tested positive for coronavirus.

The 74-year-old has received criticism for his handling of the pandemic in recent months, having described it as "the China virus", suggested that it could be cured with an injection of bleach and claimed that a vaccine will be imminently available.

With just over a month remaining until the US public decide whether to give him a second term in the White House, Trump himself has now contracted COVID-19 and in a statement on Friday afternoon, his press secretary confirmed that he is being moved to the Walter Reed Medical Center for further treatment.

"President Trump remains in good spirts, has mild symptoms, and has been working throughout the day," she said.

"Trump will be headed to Walter Reed Medical Center shortly. Out of an abundance of caution, and at the recommendation of his physician and medical experts, the President will be working from the presidential offices at Walter Reed for the next few days.

"President Trump appreciates the outpouring of support for both he and the First Lady."

Trump's wife Melania, 50, has also tested positive for coronavirus but is said to be doing well and does not require similar treatment.