Updated March 1st, 2020 at 20:09 IST

UK health officials urge people over 60 years old to avoid crowds to contain Coronavirus

Health chiefs have reportedly urged the people aged over 60 to avoid crowded place, public transport and supermarkets amid the widespread Coronavirus outbreak

Reported by: Sounak Mitra
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Health chiefs in the UK have reportedly urged citizens aged over 60 to avoid crowded places, public transport, and supermarkets amid the widespread Coronavirus outbreak spreading across the world. According to the reports, the World Health Organisation issued a severe warning that urged elderly people to skip routine appointments at doctors' and hospitals. The major step comes after a worker at an infant school n Berkshire was one of three further patients from England who tested positive for the deadly Coronavirus taking the total tally to 23 in UK. 

READ: COVID-19: 4 Indians On-board Diamond Princess Test Positive, Toll Rises To 12

School issued warnings

As per the reports, the school issued a notice for the parents advising them that Willow Bank Infant School will be closed for few days ahead of deep cleaning and revealed that more than 10,000 Britons have now been tested for the deadly virus. The two recent cases one in the Cotswolds, and another in Hertfordshire are being investigated and any individuals who had been in contact with the patients are now being traced.

The Health Minister of UK Matt Hancock reportedly said on March 1 that the UK is planning to heighten its precautionary measures amid the global Coronavirus outbreak before it gets worse. Hancock described the outbreak as a “very, very significant challenge”, according to the international media reports.

READ: World Leaders Roll Out Bans, Stricter Travel Restrictions Amid Coronavirus Outbreak

PM to chair meeting

As per the reports, a meeting is expected to take place on Monday by the government's emergency response committee and it will be chaired by British PM Boris Johnson. The move signifies stepping up Britain's preparations for the deadly outbreak which originated in China and has claimed more than 3000 lives worldwide. Hancock told British media that they have their own strategy to contain the spread of the virus which is a challenging task.

He added that the UK Health Ministry is making plans in case the situation gets worse. According to reports, if the government finds the virus spreading rapidly, it has decided to let retired health workers register to work again and it will encourage people to work at home.

READ: WHO: Sanctions Against Iran Do Not Apply During Coronavirus Outbreak

READ: UK Health Officials Step Up Coronavirus Precautions, May Register Retired Doctors

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Published March 1st, 2020 at 20:09 IST