A public information campaign has been launched across the UK to advise people on how to protect themselves from infection with the coronavirus, reduce its spread and impact on NHS services.

The government-funded campaign promotes key hygiene messages across social media, print media and radio, such as regularly washing hands and always sneezing into a tissue, to stop the spread.

Matt Hancock, health and social care secretary said: “Our highly trained and experienced clinicians are working round the clock to prevent the spread of coronavirus in the UK. The government has detailed plans for how to deal with an outbreak like this. We can all play our part.”

“Basic hygiene such as washing our hands regularly and using tissues when we cough and sneeze can play an important role in minimising the spread of viruses like this. Today [February 2 2020] we have launched a UK-wide public information campaign to help the public protect themselves and each other,” he added.

People who have travelled back from the Hubei province in China within the last 14 days are being asked to stay indoors and avoid contact with other people, call NHS 111 to inform them of recent travel to the city and if in Northern Ireland to call their GP. 

Anyone who has travelled from anywhere else in China (not including Macao or Hong Kong) to the UK in the last 14 days and develops symptoms of cough, fever or shortness of breath should immediately self-isolate, even if symptoms are minor, and call NHS 111, advised the Department of Health and Social Care.