Coronavirus: ISIS warns terrorists against travelling to Europe due to Covid-19 outbreak

The terrorist group, which previously urged its followers to attack European cities, is now urging them to steer clear.

Coronavirus has been officially named a pandemic by the World Health Organisation (WHO).

Italy, Spain, Republic of Ireland and France have all implemented lockdown measures in one form or another.

In the UK as of 9am on Sunday there had been 1,391 confirmed cases of coronavirus with 35 deaths.

The Times reports that ISIS is now warning its members to ‘stay away from the land of the epidemic’ to avoid getting infected.

According to the paper, the group has also issued a new set of ‘sharia directives’ – advising people to ‘cover their mouths when yawning and sneezing’ and to wash their hands regularly.

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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.

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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