Coronavirus: 'Selfish idiots' - Portsmouth reacts after people flocked to seafronts despite social distancing advice

Pictures taken over the weekend show swathes of families, couples and dog walkers strolling along Southsea seafront.

It came after the government called for all pubs, restaurants, gyms, leisure centres and other venues to shut on Friday.

Stephen Morgan, the Labour MP for Portsmouth South and Penny Mordaunt, the Conservative MP for Portsmouth North, joined forces over the weekend to issue a plea for people to ‘stay home and save lives’.

Following the publication of this, many people reacted strongly and criticised the people who had gone down to the seafront in recent days.

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It comes as Hampshire County Council has shut its car parks and facilities at its country parks, walks and open spaces.

Here are some of the views shared on Facebook:

Debbie Felton said: ‘Lockdown will be inevitable because of these numpties.’

Richard E John wrote: ‘My niece is a nurse and she's worried that this is going spread if people don't keep themselves apart, yes its okay to go out but stay well away from others.’

Giulio Cacace said: ‘People have no clue of how dangerous the virus is, look at what's happening in other countries and if we don't stop this reckless behaviour it will happen here soon!’

Kim Rowlatt added: ‘What they don’t understand is the NHS will not be able to cope with a large influx of ill people doctors are going to have to pick who’s going to be sent home to die and who’s going to receive treatment.’

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Carol Townroe wrote: ‘Please listen to what you are being told and keep your distance and stay safe.’

Thomas Coombs said: ‘If you have no symptoms nor any one else in your household, then we have been told you are allowed to get some exercise – this is from the health officials. Just don't crowd around each other. Don't stay out all day, quick walk, keep distance, go home.’

Char Russell wrote: ‘Selfish individuals. The sooner we all do this the quicker we can get back to making a living and have a life. Not listening is like trying to sign your own death certificate and risking others.’

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Ann-marie Gibbs said: ‘Selfish idiots.’

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.

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