First coronavirus cases confirmed in Lincolnshire

The government has confirmed coronavirus has arrived in Lincolnshire.
Call 111 if you suspect you suspect you may have coronavirus.Call 111 if you suspect you suspect you may have coronavirus.
Call 111 if you suspect you suspect you may have coronavirus.

The Department of Health said on Friday afternoon that up to four people from the county have tested positive for coronavirus (COVID-19).

It is believed that the first confirmed case in the county is “a resident of Lincolnshire recently returned from Italy,” who may have have infected others.

Across the UK of 20,338 people who have been tested, 20,175 were confirmed negative and 163 were confirmed as positive.

Two people who tested positive for COVID-19 have died - on Thursday a woman in her 70s, also with long-term health problems and on Friday .a man in his 80s with underlying health issues.

Hawthorn Medical Centre in Skegness has posted advice for anyone concerned they may have coronavirus or you may have been in contact with someone who has.

They direct patients to the NHS111 service, who are urging people to protect themselves and others by not going to a GP, pharmacy or hospital but calling 111 first.

To reduce the risk of catching the virus, wash your hands regularly.