First positive case of coronavirus identified in Kirklees

Kirklees Council has confirmed it is working closely with Public Health England to minimise risk to the public.

Rachel Spencer-Henshall, Director for Public Health in Kirklees, said: “We have had our first case of novel coronavirus in Kirklees, something we have been anticipating and preparing for.

“Our thoughts are with the person and we wish them the very best in their recovery. I’d like to reassure residents that we are continuing to work closely with colleagues in the health service to stop the virus spreading.

“Specialists at PHE are taking swift action to follow up with the contacts of all confirmed cases, ensuring they receive the correct medical advice and guidance.

“In the meantime, good hygiene is the very best prevention, and there are some simple steps we can all take to protect ourselves, our families and communities.

“This includes washing hands regularly for a minimum of 20 seconds, and following NHS advice in relation to coughs and colds – catch the sneeze in a tissue, bin it…and kill the germs.”

The total number of UK cases has increased to 373 as of 9am on Tuesday, up from 319 at the same point on Monday, the Department of Health said.

Today's rise is the second largest day-on-day increase since the outbreak began.

It is a jump of 54, which is 17% up on the equivalent figure for Monday.