Coronavirus: UK residents advised to avoid pubs, clubs and theatres as well as stop all 'non-essential contact'

The Prime Minister set out the need for ‘drastic action’ to tackle the ‘fast growth’ of coronavirus across the UK as increased social distancing measures are introduced for the population.

As part of the measures, anyone living in a household with somebody who has either a persistent cough or fever must now also isolate themselves for 14 days.

All people should avoid gatherings and crowded places, while people who are vulnerable - including those are elderly - will need to undertake even more drastic measures.

The Prime Minister said that according to the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (Sage) ‘it looks as though we are now approaching the fast growth part of the upward curve’ in the number of cases.

‘Without drastic action cases could double every five or six days,’ he said.

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Mr Johnson said that from Tuesday mass gatherings are something ‘we are now moving emphatically away from’.

He said ‘if you or anyone in your household’ had one of the two symptoms - a high temperature or continuous cough - ‘you should stay at home for 14 days.

‘That means that if possible you should not go out, even to buy food or essentials, other than for exercise and in that case at a safe distance from others.’

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In a dramatic escalation of the Government's response, Mr Johnson said all members of the public needed to take extra action.

‘Now is the time for everyone to stop non-essential contact with others and to stop all unnecessary travel,’ he said.

Mr Johnson said London appeared to be ‘a few weeks ahead’ of other areas and urged people in the capital to pay special attention to the measures - including home working - suggested by the Government.

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Coronavirus: the facts

What is coronavirus?

COVID-19 is a respiratory illness that can affect lungs and airways. It is caused by a virus called coronavirus.

What caused coronavirus?

The outbreak started in Wuhan in China in December 2019 and it is thought that the virus, like others of its kind, has come from animals.

How is it spread?

As this is such a new illness, experts still aren’t sure how it is spread. But similar viruses are spread in cough droplets. Therefore covering your nose and mouth when sneezing and coughing, and disposing of used tissues straight away is advised. Viruses like coronavirus cannot live outside the body for very long.

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What are the symptoms?

The NHS states that the symptoms are: a dry cough, high temperature and shortness of breath - but these symptoms do not necessarily mean you have the illness. Look out for flu-like symptoms, such as aches and pains, nasal congestion, runny nose and a sore throat. It’s important to remember that some people may become infected but won’t develop any symptoms or feel unwell.

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What precautions can be taken?

Washing your hands with soap and water thoroughly. The NHS also advises to cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when you cough or sneeze; put used tissues in the bin immediately and try to avoid close contact with people who are unwell. Also avoiding touching eyes, nose and mouth unless your hands are clean.

Sources: World Health Organisation and NHS