Coronavirus - PM urges people to avoid 'non-essential contact'

Prime Minister Boris Johnson

As the Coronavirus crisis continues to deepen, UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson has spoken this afternoon about further steps the country must take amid the worldwide pandemic.

Mr Johnson has said that anybody who lives with someone with a fever or persistent cough should self-isolate in their homes for 14 days.

He also stated that by the end of the week people with the most serious conditions should self-isolate for at least 12 weeks.

The government has urged people to avoid "non-essential contact" with others from today.

He said: "I know we are asking a lot of everyone.”

Mr Johnson also added that it "may be necessary" to think about school closures, but only "at the right stage" of the outbreak.

Key points:

·         Anyone who lives with someone who has a cough or a temperature should stay at home for 14 days

·         People should start working from home where they possibly can

·         Avoid pubs, clubs, theatres and other such social venues

·         Only use the NHS when we really need to

·         From tomorrow government will no longer be "supporting" mass gatherings using emergency workers

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