news--2020-03-19--Coronavirus deaths in the UK rise to 144 as 3,269 test positive for COVID-19

The number of people who have died after contracting coronavirus in the UK has risen to 144 , the Department of Health has said .
It comes as the number of confirmed cases rose by 643 to 3,269 on Thursday .
Earlier , NHS England said 29 more people had died in England in the past 24 hours , taking the total there to 128 .
London also topped 1,000 cases - with another 268 making 1,221 .
The capital 's death toll increased by 16 and stands at 52 .
There has also been the second known death of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , head of the Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust , said the patient had underlying health conditions .
Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said three more people in Scotland had died in the past 24 hours after testing positive for coronavirus , doubling her country 's death toll to six .
Northern Ireland also recorded its first death on Thursday , with Wales previously recording two deaths .
It brought the death toll earlier in the afternoon to 137 .
It is unclear where the remaining seven deaths , which the Department of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ located .
NHS England said the latest deaths were people between 47 and 96 years old who all had underlying health conditions .
There are now 2,756 confirmed cases in England - a rise of 574 in a day .
The number of people in Scotland who have contracted COVID-19 stands at 266 - a rise of 39 in 24 hours .
Ms Sturgeon said the figure was `` likely to be an underestimate of the true prevalence of the infection '' .
The number of cases in Wales has also increased , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ total to 170 .
And Northern Ireland has a total of 77 confirmed cases of coronavirus - an increase of nine in a day .
The prime minister said in his daily briefing on Thursday that he believed the country could `` turn the tide '' against the virus in the next 12 weeks .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker He also said the government was in talks to buy `` hundreds of thousands '' of tests to reveal if people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ continued to affect people 's lives across Britain .
A partial shutdown of the London Underground started on Thursday as up to 40 stations that do not interchange with other lines were closed `` until further notice '' .
Elsewhere , the education secretary said students whose exams have been cancelled to stop the coronavirus spread will be given grades so they can still go to college or university .
Gavin Williamson told Sky News the full details including who would decide those GCSE and A-level grades and what appeals process would be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Up to 20,000 service personnel will be put on standby to help combat the coronavirus , with troops gearing up to drive oxygen tankers , support the police and boost hospital capacity .
On Thursday , reservists will be put on notice to mobilise if required as part of a war-like effort to prepare the armed forces in case the government calls upon them in large numbers .
And supermarkets are expecting to get police support to deter unruly behaviour if London goes into lockdown because of the outbreak .

The number of people who have died after contracting coronavirus in the UK has risen to 144, the Department of Health has said.
It comes as the number of confirmed cases rose by 643 to 3,269 on Thursday.
Earlier, NHS England said 29 more people had died in England in the past 24 hours, taking the total there to 128.
London also topped 1,000 cases - with another 268 making 1,221. The capital's death toll increased by 16 and stands at 52.
There has also been the second known death of someone in their forties.
Diane Wake, head of the Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust, said the patient had underlying health conditions.
Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said three more people in Scotland had died in the past 24 hours after testing positive for coronavirus, doubling her country's death toll to six.
Northern Ireland also recorded its first death on Thursday, with Wales previously recording two deaths. It brought the death toll earlier in the afternoon to 137.
It is unclear where the remaining seven deaths, which the Department of Health announced on Thursday evening, are located.
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NHS England said the latest deaths were people between 47 and 96 years old who all had underlying health conditions.
There are now 2,756 confirmed cases in England - a rise of 574 in a day.
The number of people in Scotland who have contracted COVID-19 stands at 266 - a rise of 39 in 24 hours.
Ms Sturgeon said the figure was "likely to be an underestimate of the true prevalence of the infection".
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:47 UK can 'turn tide on virus within 12 weeks' - PM
The number of cases in Wales has also increased, with 21 new confirmed cases bringing its total to 170.
And Northern Ireland has a total of 77 confirmed cases of coronavirus - an increase of nine in a day.
The prime minister said in his daily briefing on Thursday that he believed the country could "turn the tide" against the virus in the next 12 weeks.
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
He also said the government was in talks to buy "hundreds of thousands" of tests to reveal if people are immune.
The virus outbreak has continued to affect people's lives across Britain.
A partial shutdown of the London Underground started on Thursday as up to 40 stations that do not interchange with other lines were closed "until further notice".
Elsewhere, the education secretary said students whose exams have been cancelled to stop the coronavirus spread will be given grades so they can still go to college or university.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:41 'No exams for this academic year'
Gavin Williamson told Sky News the full details including who would decide those GCSE and A-level grades and what appeals process would be available would be revealed on Friday.
Up to 20,000 service personnel will be put on standby to help combat the coronavirus, with troops gearing up to drive oxygen tankers, support the police and boost hospital capacity.
On Thursday, reservists will be put on notice to mobilise if required as part of a war-like effort to prepare the armed forces in case the government calls upon them in large numbers.
And supermarkets are expecting to get police support to deter unruly behaviour if London goes into lockdown because of the outbreak.


news--2020-03-19--Coronavirus: Deaths in Spain rise to 767 as lockdown continues

The number of people who have died after testing positive for coronavirus in Spain has risen to 767 , an increase of 169 in the last 24 hours .
The total number of COVID-19 cases also grew overnight , rising by just over a quarter to 17,147 .
Spain is the second worst affected country in Europe , as only Italy has had more cases and deaths .
Across the rest of the world , only China and Iran have had larger outbreaks .
The entire country is currently under lockdown as the government tries to stop the spread of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Pedro Sanchez has called the virus a `` cruel '' disease that paralyses the human need to socialise .
On Wednesday , both Italy and France had their highest numbers of deaths from coronavirus in a single day , with 475 and 89 more fatalities respectively .
Italy has been on total lockdown since 9 March and has now recorded a total of 2,978 deaths .
It is on track to surpass China 's death toll , which currently stands at 3,249 .
Health experts in Italy are warning the peak of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the worst hit regions in the north .
In France , the government said on Thursday that it will extend the current two-week lockdown if the threat from the virus continues .
The announcement came as French President Emmanuel Macron came under pressure from doctors and nurses over the lack of face masks and hand sanitiser in hospitals .
A national police union has also told officers to refuse to carry out tasks that would bring them into close proximity with members of the public because of the shortage of masks .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , with just over 30 coronavirus-related deaths .
The country is not under lockdown but schools , businesses and public areas have been shut to stop the disease spreading .
In an address to the nation on Wednesday , German Chancellor Angela Merkel said the outbreak was the biggest challenge faced by the country since the Second World War .

The number of people who have died after testing positive for coronavirus in Spain has risen to 767, an increase of 169 in the last 24 hours.
The total number of COVID-19 cases also grew overnight, rising by just over a quarter to 17,147.
Spain is the second worst affected country in Europe, as only Italy has had more cases and deaths. Across the rest of the world, only China and Iran have had larger outbreaks.
Image: Las Ramblas in Barcelona is eerily quiet
The entire country is currently under lockdown as the government tries to stop the spread of the disease any further.
Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has called the virus a "cruel" disease that paralyses the human need to socialise.
On Wednesday, both Italy and France had their highest numbers of deaths from coronavirus in a single day, with 475 and 89 more fatalities respectively.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:10 COVID-19: Italian doctor's stark warning
Italy has been on total lockdown since 9 March and has now recorded a total of 2,978 deaths. It is on track to surpass China's death toll, which currently stands at 3,249.
Health experts in Italy are warning the peak of the disease may not come until mid-April in the worst hit regions in the north.
In France, the government said on Thursday that it will extend the current two-week lockdown if the threat from the virus continues.
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Image: French police have been enforcing a night-time curfew
The announcement came as French President Emmanuel Macron came under pressure from doctors and nurses over the lack of face masks and hand sanitiser in hospitals.
A national police union has also told officers to refuse to carry out tasks that would bring them into close proximity with members of the public because of the shortage of masks.
The outbreak in Germany has been less severe, with just over 30 coronavirus-related deaths.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 4:16 The misinformation outbreak
The country is not under lockdown but schools, businesses and public areas have been shut to stop the disease spreading.
In an address to the nation on Wednesday, German Chancellor Angela Merkel said the outbreak was the biggest challenge faced by the country since the Second World War.


news--2020-03-19--Coronavirus: The famous people who have tested positive for COVID-19

The coronavirus has infected more than two million people across the world , as cities are locked down , schools are closed and families self-isolate in their homes .
Thousands of people have died after testing positive for COVID-19 , the disease caused by the coronavirus .
The virus has also made its way into the worlds of sport , film , politics and royalty .
Here we take a look at some of the noteworthy figures who have the illness or have contracted it and recovered .
Singer Pink demanded more COVID-19 testing in the US as she revealed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ April .
In an Instagram post , the star described the illness as `` serious and real '' and said it affects the `` young and old , healthy and unhealthy , rich and poor '' .
She described current testing efforts as a `` travesty '' and urged people to stay at home .
The singer said her son , Jameson , three , had also had symptoms of the disease .
Magician Dynamo , who has underlying health conditions , revealed he had suffered `` severe symptoms '' of COVID-19 .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's disease and arthritis , putting him at a greater risk of becoming seriously ill .
He said he had tested positive after taking a private test due the fact he was considered high risk .
In a video message posted on 2 April , he warned : `` This illness can effect anyone , it does n't discriminate and it can present itself in many different ways .
We 're all genuinely at risk . ''
The Hollywood couple said they were taking it `` one day at a time '' in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Hanks and Wilson , both 63 , confirmed they had tested positive for the disease on 12 March .
In an Instagram post , Hanks wrote : `` Hello folks .
@ ritawilson and I want to thank everyone here Down Under who are taking such good care of us .
`` We have COVID-19 and are in isolation so we do not spread it to anyone else .
There are those for whom it could lead to a very serious illness . ''
They later posted to say they had both @ @ @ @ @ @ @ actor confirmed he had contracted COVID-19 on Twitter on 17 March .
The actor said he felt fine and had no symptoms , but had been isolated since he found out that he may have been exposed to the virus .
In a tweet he said : `` This morning I tested positive for COVID-19 .
I feel ok. '' I have no symptoms so far but have been isolated since I found out about my possible exposure to the virus .
`` Stay home people and be pragmatic .
I will keep @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
No panic . ''
The BBC newsreader confirmed he had tested positive for the virus but said he thought he had had a `` mild dose '' .
Alagiah , 64 , was diagnosed with bowel cancer in April 2014 and again in December 2017 , and said going through that had helped him fight his latest illness .
`` I do n't want to trivialise because I seem to have had a mild dose , but actually , the very fact that we ( cancer patients ) are living with cancer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' he said in an interview on 1 April .
`` We 've confronted those difficult , dark moments in our life . ''
Comedian Lee Mack confirmed on 26 March that he was self-isolating at home after developing symptoms , although he had not been tested for the virus .
A spokesperson for the Not Going Out star said : `` He said the worst symptom so far is the avalanche of jokes about him Not Going Out .
`` He laughed on day one but now it 's day 10 it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ actress and former model said she had `` never felt this ill '' after both she and her husband contracted the virus .
On 19 March , she posted on Twitter : `` I want to thank you all for your good wishes .
Sam and I have had COVID-19 symptoms and are in isolation so we do not spread it to anyone else .
We are taking it one-day-at-a-time , that 's all we can do .
`` But let me tell you we 've never felt this ill , EVER !
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ tested positive and said the NHS had saved her life .
The actress revealed she has tested positive for coronavirus on social media on 31 March , and said she had donated tests to NHS workers .
The 40-year-old said she had suffered from `` mild flu-like symptoms '' but that these quickly improved .
Aware of `` what a privilege it is to be able access tests privately '' , Air said she had also donated some to friends who are health workers .
The 72-year-old - who was part of comedy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had been `` laid-up '' with mild symptoms but they were `` not nice '' .
In a video message posted on Twitter on 30 March , Chuckle , whose real name is Paul Elliott , said : `` I have been laid up with COVID-19 for a good few days , just mild , but it was there and it 's not nice , I promise you , so please , please stay inside .
`` We 're all going stir-crazy , we know that , but please stay inside and take @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Curie , etc , etc .
`` Please , please , stay in guys and enjoy as best you can . ''
A US federal prison union official said on 23 March that the disgraced film producer had tested positive for COVID-19 .
The former Hollywood mogul was placed in isolation at Wende Correctional Facility , a maximum security prison east of Buffalo , New York .
A lawyer for Weinstein , Imran Ansari , said his legal team had not been notified of the diagnosis .
The singer-songwriter 's agent confirmed on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ being treated for COVID-19 .
Francois Ravard said the 73-year-old was in a stable condition and `` responding to treatment '' in a London hospital .
Mr Ravard said : `` She is stable and responding to treatment , we all wish her well and a full and speedy recovery . ''
The Bond girl said she had tested positive for coronavirus in a message posted on Instagram on 15 March , urging fans to take the illness seriously .
The Ukrainian-born French actress , who starred in Quantum Of Solace , said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ having tested positive for coronavirus .
`` I 've actually been ill for almost a week now .
Fever and fatigue are my main symptoms .
Take care of yourself and do take this seriously ! ''
Games of Thrones star Hivju , who played the wildling warrior Tormund Giantsbane , self-isolated with his family after contracting the illness .
He wrote in an Instagram post on 16 March : `` We are in good health - I only have mild symptoms of a cold .
`` There are people at higher risk @ @ @ @ @ @ @ devastating diagnosis , so I urge all of you to be extremely careful ; wash your hands , keep 1.5 meters distance from others , go in quarantine ; just do everything you can to stop the virus from spreading . ''
The 51-year-old Watch What Happens Live presenter wrote on Instagram on 20 March , saying he had been in quarantine after feeling ill for `` a few days '' and been diagnosed with the virus .
He added : `` I want to thank all the medical professionals who are working @ @ @ @ @ @ @ urge everybody to stay home and take care of themselves . ''
Former GMTV host Fiona Phillips tweeted on 20 March to say she had symptoms including a sore throat and dry cough but was `` fine '' and `` not suffering '' .
Phillips , 59 , tweeted : `` I am in bed with # coronvirusuk It 's not a very pleasant bedfellow , but nothing more than sore throat , dry cough , headache and tiredness .
As long as it stays that way ... .DO N'T panic ! ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ station RTE 2fm on 24 March that he had a `` very , very dry cough '' and had tested positive .
`` I 'd never had a cough like it before ...
I was a little bit panicked , '' he said .
`` Maybe three , four days later I got a fever that lasted for four or five days .
Overall my experience was n't as bad as it can get .
So I 'm kind of lucky . ''
Spanish opera singer Placido Domingo , 79 , announced that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on 23 March .
A week later , he played down media reports that he had been taken to hospital in Mexico , saying he was at home and feeling fine .
In a statement on his Facebook page , the tenor said there had been `` a lot of confusing and incorrect information about my current health condition ( that ) has been circulated in social networks and in the press .
`` I am at home and I feel fine , '' he said .
Domingo is one of the world @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his reputation has been tarnished in recent months by multiple allegations of sexual misconduct involving female singers , musicians and backstage staff .
The Duran Duran bassist confirmed his diagnosis on 6 April , posting on the band 's social media pages to say he had tested positive about three weeks prior .
`` Perhaps I am a particularly robust 59-year-old - I like to think I am - or was blessed with getting only a mild case of COVID-19 - but after a week or so of what I would describe as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out of it feeling okay - although I must admit I did n't mind the quarantine as it gave me the chance to really recover , '' he said .
`` I am speaking out in answer to the enormous amount of fear being generated by the pandemic , some of it entirely justified , and my heart goes out to everyone who has had to deal with real loss and pain .
`` But I want to let you know that it is n't always a killer , and we can and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an update on 1 April , he said : `` Day 17 and I 'm getting better and my wife Lexi thankfully did n't and wo n't have symptoms .
Stay healthy and stay inside .
Thank you to all the Dr 's and nurses and first responders and everybody helping everybody . ''
First Dates waitress Laura Tott , who is also an NHS paramedic , confirmed she had tested positive for COVID-19 on social media on 15 April .
Aside from her role on the Channel 4 reality show , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the frontline .
Tott , who became a fully registered paramedic 12 months ago , said her symptoms had been different to some others .
`` So I 'm one of the lucky ones , '' she wrote .
`` Wan na spread awareness , My first symptoms were complete loss of taste and smell , and then felt like I had sinusitis , I think these symptoms need to be taken way more seriously .
`` I had no cough or fever at first , and still have no cough now .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ recommendations welcome , it 's gon na be a long week for me . ''
Clarence House confirmed that the 71-year-old heir to the throne had been diagnosed in a statement released on 25 March .
In a video message a few days later , the Duke of Cornwall praised the `` remarkable NHS '' .
He has since completed his period of isolation at Birkhall in Aberdeenshire .
In his message , the royal said : `` As we are all learning , this is a strange , frustrating and often distressing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ friends is no longer possible and the normal structures of life are suddenly removed .
`` At such an unprecedented and anxious time in all our lives , my wife and I are thinking particularly of all those who have lost their loved ones in such very difficult and abnormal circumstances , and of those having to endure sickness , isolation and loneliness . ''
The 62-year-old reigning monarch confirmed he had tested positive for the virus on 19 March .
However , a palace statement said his health was not worrying and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ legend tested positive for coronavirus in hospital , his family said on 10 April .
The 69-year-old was admitted for `` treatment of an infection which required intravenous antibiotics '' and subsequently diagnosed after a routine check for COVID-19 , despite not showing symptoms .
He has since been released from hospital .
Arsenal 's head coach Mikel Arteta tested positive for the coronavirus and self-isolated in line with government guidelines .
He wrote on Twitter on 13 March : `` Thanks for your words and support .
Feeling better already .
We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ challenge .
Everyone 's health is all that matters right now . ''
The Chelsea winger was confirmed to have tested positive on 13 March .
In a video message on Twitter , he said he had been self-isolating and had recovered from the disease .
`` Thank you for all your good wishes , '' he said to fans .
The prime minister 's coronavirus diagnosis was confirmed on 27 March .
On 5 April , he was admitted to hospital for tests after continuing to display symptoms .
The following day @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` good spirits '' after a `` comfortable '' night .
His spokesman declined to give any details of the treatment Mr Johnson received .
The health secretary said he had lost half a stone while he was ill with coronavirus .
His diagnosis was also confirmed on 27 March , and he came out of isolation a week later .
Describing the effects of the disease , he told Sky News : `` It is rough , especially when you are on the downhill part of it - it 's very worrying @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it can get .
`` I had a couple of days when it was really very unpleasant and I 've lost about half a stone .
`` But , thankfully , I 've recovered and I 'm now feeling fine and it 's very good to be back at work . ''
The health minister became the first MP with a confirmed case after she revealed she had tested positive on 11 March .
Two weeks later , she was applauded as she returned to the Commons after her recovery .
The European @ @ @ @ @ @ @ relationship with Britain after Brexit confirmed he had coronavirus on 19 March .
Mr Barnier tweeted that he is doing well and is in good spirits .
He wrote : `` I am following all the necessary instructions , as is my team .
`` For all those affected already , and for all those currently in isolation , we will get through this together . ''
The wife of Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau confirmed she had tested positive for COVID-19 in March , following a trip to the UK .
Sophie @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mild .
`` Although I 'm experiencing uncomfortable symptoms of the virus , I will be back on my feet soon , '' she said in a statement at the time .
`` Being in quarantine at home is nothing compared to other Canadian families who might be going through this and for those facing more serious health concerns . ''

The coronavirus has infected more than two million people across the world, as cities are locked down, schools are closed and families self-isolate in their homes.
Thousands of people have died after testing positive for COVID-19, the disease caused by the coronavirus.
The virus has also made its way into the worlds of sport, film, politics and royalty. Here we take a look at some of the noteworthy figures who have the illness or have contracted it and recovered.
Arts and entertainment
Image: Pic: Instagram/Pink
Pink
Singer Pink demanded more COVID-19 testing in the US as she revealed she had contracted the virus on 4 April.
In an Instagram post, the star described the illness as "serious and real" and said it affects the "young and old, healthy and unhealthy, rich and poor".
She described current testing efforts as a "travesty" and urged people to stay at home.
The singer said her son, Jameson, three, had also had symptoms of the disease.
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Dynamo
Magician Dynamo, who has underlying health conditions, revealed he had suffered "severe symptoms" of COVID-19.
The TV star suffers from both Crohn's disease and arthritis, putting him at a greater risk of becoming seriously ill.
He said he had tested positive after taking a private test due the fact he was considered high risk.
In a video message posted on 2 April, he warned: "This illness can effect anyone, it doesn't discriminate and it can present itself in many different ways. We're all genuinely at risk."
Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson
The Hollywood couple said they were taking it "one day at a time" in quarantine after contracting the coronavirus in Australia.
Hanks and Wilson, both 63, confirmed they had tested positive for the disease on 12 March.
In an Instagram post, Hanks wrote: "Hello folks. @ritawilson and I want to thank everyone here Down Under who are taking such good care of us.
"We have COVID-19 and are in isolation so we do not spread it to anyone else. There are those for whom it could lead to a very serious illness."
They later posted to say they had both recovered and returned home.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:09 'This is serious. Think about social distancing'
Idris Elba
The British actor confirmed he had contracted COVID-19 on Twitter on 17 March.
The actor said he felt fine and had no symptoms, but had been isolated since he found out that he may have been exposed to the virus.
In a tweet he said: "This morning I tested positive for COVID-19. I feel ok.
"I have no symptoms so far but have been isolated since I found out about my possible exposure to the virus.
"Stay home people and be pragmatic. I will keep you updated on how I'm doing. No panic."
George Alagiah
The BBC newsreader confirmed he had tested positive for the virus but said he thought he had had a "mild dose".
Alagiah, 64, was diagnosed with bowel cancer in April 2014 and again in December 2017, and said going through that had helped him fight his latest illness.
"I don't want to trivialise because I seem to have had a mild dose, but actually, the very fact that we (cancer patients) are living with cancer I think gives us an edge," he said in an interview on 1 April.
"We've confronted those difficult, dark moments in our life."
Lee Mack
Comedian Lee Mack confirmed on 26 March that he was self-isolating at home after developing symptoms, although he had not been tested for the virus.
A spokesperson for the Not Going Out star said: "He said the worst symptom so far is the avalanche of jokes about him Not Going Out.
"He laughed on day one but now it's day 10 it's becoming a struggle."
Linda Lusardi
The actress and former model said she had "never felt this ill" after both she and her husband contracted the virus.
On 19 March, she posted on Twitter: "I want to thank you all for your good wishes. Sam and I have had COVID-19 symptoms and are in isolation so we do not spread it to anyone else. We are taking it one-day-at-a-time, that's all we can do.
"But let me tell you we've never felt this ill, EVER!"
She later confirmed they had both tested positive and said the NHS had saved her life.
Image: Pic: James Warren/SOPA Images/Shutterstock
Donna Air
The actress revealed she has tested positive for coronavirus on social media on 31 March, and said she had donated tests to NHS workers.
The 40-year-old said she had suffered from "mild flu-like symptoms" but that these quickly improved.
Aware of "what a privilege it is to be able access tests privately", Air said she had also donated some to friends who are health workers.
Paul Chuckle
The 72-year-old - who was part of comedy duo The Chuckle Brothers - said he had been "laid-up" with mild symptoms but they were "not nice".
In a video message posted on Twitter on 30 March, Chuckle, whose real name is Paul Elliott, said: "I have been laid up with COVID-19 for a good few days, just mild, but it was there and it's not nice, I promise you, so please, please stay inside.
"We're all going stir-crazy, we know that, but please stay inside and take the pressure off the NHS, Marie Curie, etc, etc.
"Please, please, stay in guys and enjoy as best you can."
Harvey Weinstein
A US federal prison union official said on 23 March that the disgraced film producer had tested positive for COVID-19.
The former Hollywood mogul was placed in isolation at Wende Correctional Facility, a maximum security prison east of Buffalo, New York.
A lawyer for Weinstein, Imran Ansari, said his legal team had not been notified of the diagnosis.
Marianne Faithfull
The singer-songwriter's agent confirmed on 4 April that she was in hospital being treated for COVID-19.
Francois Ravard said the 73-year-old was in a stable condition and "responding to treatment" in a London hospital.
Mr Ravard said: "She is stable and responding to treatment, we all wish her well and a full and speedy recovery."
Olga Kurylenko
The Bond girl said she had tested positive for coronavirus in a message posted on Instagram on 15 March, urging fans to take the illness seriously.
The Ukrainian-born French actress, who starred in Quantum Of Solace, said: "Locked up at home after having tested positive for coronavirus.
"I've actually been ill for almost a week now. Fever and fatigue are my main symptoms. Take care of yourself and do take this seriously!"
Kristofer Hivju
Games of Thrones star Hivju, who played the wildling warrior Tormund Giantsbane, self-isolated with his family after contracting the illness.
He wrote in an Instagram post on 16 March: "We are in good health - I only have mild symptoms of a cold.
"There are people at higher risk for who this virus might be a devastating diagnosis, so I urge all of you to be extremely careful; wash your hands, keep 1.5 meters distance from others, go in quarantine; just do everything you can to stop the virus from spreading."
Andy Cohen
The 51-year-old Watch What Happens Live presenter wrote on Instagram on 20 March, saying he had been in quarantine after feeling ill for "a few days" and been diagnosed with the virus.
He added: "I want to thank all the medical professionals who are working tirelessly for all of us, and urge everybody to stay home and take care of themselves."
Fiona Phillips
Former GMTV host Fiona Phillips tweeted on 20 March to say she had symptoms including a sore throat and dry cough but was "fine" and "not suffering".
Phillips, 59, tweeted: "I am in bed with #coronvirusuk It's not a very pleasant bedfellow, but nothing more than sore throat, dry cough, headache and tiredness. As long as it stays that way....DON'T panic!"
Mark Prendergast
Kodaline guitarist Mark Prendergast told Irish radio station RTE 2fm on 24 March that he had a "very, very dry cough" and had tested positive.
"I'd never had a cough like it before... I was a little bit panicked," he said.
"Maybe three, four days later I got a fever that lasted for four or five days. Overall my experience wasn't as bad as it can get. So I'm kind of lucky."
Placido Domingo
Spanish opera singer Placido Domingo, 79, announced that he had tested positive for the virus on 23 March.
A week later, he played down media reports that he had been taken to hospital in Mexico, saying he was at home and feeling fine.
In a statement on his Facebook page, the tenor said there had been "a lot of confusing and incorrect information about my current health condition (that) has been circulated in social networks and in the press.
"I am at home and I feel fine," he said.
Domingo is one of the world's best known classical music stars but his reputation has been tarnished in recent months by multiple allegations of sexual misconduct involving female singers, musicians and backstage staff.
John Taylor
The Duran Duran bassist confirmed his diagnosis on 6 April, posting on the band's social media pages to say he had tested positive about three weeks prior.
"Perhaps I am a particularly robust 59-year-old - I like to think I am - or was blessed with getting only a mild case of COVID-19 - but after a week or so of what I would describe as a 'Turbo-charged Flu', I came out of it feeling okay - although I must admit I didn't mind the quarantine as it gave me the chance to really recover," he said.
"I am speaking out in answer to the enormous amount of fear being generated by the pandemic, some of it entirely justified, and my heart goes out to everyone who has had to deal with real loss and pain.
"But I want to let you know that it isn't always a killer, and we can and will beat this thing."
David Bryan
Bon Jovi keyboard player David Bryan confirmed his diagnosis on social media.
In an update on 1 April, he said: "Day 17 and I'm getting better and my wife Lexi thankfully didn't and won't have symptoms. Stay healthy and stay inside. Thank you to all the Dr's and nurses and first responders and everybody helping everybody."
Image: Pic: Channel 4
Laura Tott
First Dates waitress Laura Tott, who is also an NHS paramedic, confirmed she had tested positive for COVID-19 on social media on 15 April.
Aside from her role on the Channel 4 reality show, the 25-year-old has been tackling the outbreak on the frontline.
Tott, who became a fully registered paramedic 12 months ago, said her symptoms had been different to some others.
"So I'm one of the lucky ones," she wrote. "Wanna spread awareness, My first symptoms were complete loss of taste and smell, and then felt like I had sinusitis, I think these symptoms need to be taken way more seriously.
"I had no cough or fever at first, and still have no cough now. Stay safe and well everyone! Netflix recommendations welcome, it's gonna be a long week for me."
Royals
Prince Charles
Clarence House confirmed that the 71-year-old heir to the throne had been diagnosed in a statement released on 25 March.
In a video message a few days later, the Duke of Cornwall praised the "remarkable NHS".
He has since completed his period of isolation at Birkhall in Aberdeenshire.
In his message, the royal said: "As we are all learning, this is a strange, frustrating and often distressing experience when the presence of family and friends is no longer possible and the normal structures of life are suddenly removed.
"At such an unprecedented and anxious time in all our lives, my wife and I are thinking particularly of all those who have lost their loved ones in such very difficult and abnormal circumstances, and of those having to endure sickness, isolation and loneliness."
Prince Albert II of Monaco
The 62-year-old reigning monarch confirmed he had tested positive for the virus on 19 March.
However, a palace statement said his health was not worrying and he has since recovered.
Sport
Kenny Dalglish
The Liverpool legend tested positive for coronavirus in hospital, his family said on 10 April.
The 69-year-old was admitted for "treatment of an infection which required intravenous antibiotics" and subsequently diagnosed after a routine check for COVID-19, despite not showing symptoms.
He has since been released from hospital.
Mikel Arteta
Arsenal's head coach Mikel Arteta tested positive for the coronavirus and self-isolated in line with government guidelines.
He wrote on Twitter on 13 March: "Thanks for your words and support. Feeling better already. We're all facing a huge and unprecedented challenge. Everyone's health is all that matters right now."
Callum Hudson-Odoi
The Chelsea winger was confirmed to have tested positive on 13 March.
In a video message on Twitter, he said he had been self-isolating and had recovered from the disease.
"Thank you for all your good wishes," he said to fans.
Politics
Boris Johnson
The prime minister's coronavirus diagnosis was confirmed on 27 March.
On 5 April, he was admitted to hospital for tests after continuing to display symptoms.
The following day, Downing Street said he was in "good spirits" after a "comfortable" night.
His spokesman declined to give any details of the treatment Mr Johnson received.
Matt Hancock
The health secretary said he had lost half a stone while he was ill with coronavirus.
His diagnosis was also confirmed on 27 March, and he came out of isolation a week later.
Describing the effects of the disease, he told Sky News: "It is rough, especially when you are on the downhill part of it - it's very worrying because we've all seen how serious it can get.
"I had a couple of days when it was really very unpleasant and I've lost about half a stone.
"But, thankfully, I've recovered and I'm now feeling fine and it's very good to be back at work."
Nadine Dorries
The health minister became the first MP with a confirmed case after she revealed she had tested positive on 11 March.
Two weeks later, she was applauded as she returned to the Commons after her recovery.
Michel Barnier
The European Union's chief negotiator for its future relationship with Britain after Brexit confirmed he had coronavirus on 19 March.
Mr Barnier tweeted that he is doing well and is in good spirits.
He wrote: "I am following all the necessary instructions, as is my team.
"For all those affected already, and for all those currently in isolation, we will get through this together."
Sophie Gregoire Trudeau
The wife of Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau confirmed she had tested positive for COVID-19 in March, following a trip to the UK.
Sophie Gregoire Trudeau's symptoms were described as mild.
"Although I'm experiencing uncomfortable symptoms of the virus, I will be back on my feet soon," she said in a statement at the time.
"Being in quarantine at home is nothing compared to other Canadian families who might be going through this and for those facing more serious health concerns."


news--2020-03-19--Coronavirus: Queen issues message as UK enters 'period of great concern'

The Queen has issued a message of solidarity following the coronavirus outbreak , saying families around the UK were entering `` a period of great concern and uncertainty '' .
It comes after she moved from Buckingham Palace to Windsor Castle a week earlier than planned for the Easter period - and will likely stay there longer than originally thought - with coronavirus at its most widespread in London .
She has also cancelled a number of her public appearances in the coming months .
In a statement , she said : `` As Philip and I arrive at Windsor @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and families across the United Kingdom , and around the world , are entering a period of great concern and uncertainty .
`` We are all being advised to change our normal routines and regular patterns of life for the greater good of the communities we live in and , in particular , to protect the most vulnerable within them .
`` At times such as these , I am reminded that our nation 's history has been forged by people and communities coming together to work as one , concentrating our combined @ @ @ @ @ @ @ goal .
`` We are enormously thankful for the expertise and commitment of our scientists , medical practitioners and emergency and public services ; but now more than any time in our recent past , we all have a vitally important part to play as individuals - today and in the coming days , weeks and months .
`` Many of us will need to find new ways of staying in touch with each other and making sure that loved ones are safe .
I am certain we are up to that challenge @ @ @ @ @ @ @ family and I stand ready to play our part . ''
The 93-year-old monarch 's message comes after both Prince William and Prince Harry paid tribute to the `` awe-inspiring '' response of the public to the coronavirus crisis .
In separate social media messages , the two princes vowed to try and help coordinate community efforts to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic .
William spoke of Britons ' `` unique ability to pull together '' in the face of adversity , as he marked the launch of a coronavirus appeal by the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Meghan , the Duchess of Sussex , also promised their own action in the face of the public health crisis .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker In an Instagram post , the couple said : `` These are uncertain times .
And now , more than ever , we need each other .
`` We need each other for truth , for support , and to feel less alone during a time that can honestly feel quite scary .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who need support right now , who are working tirelessly to respond to this crisis behind the scenes , on the frontline , or at home .
`` Our willingness , as a people , to step up in the face of what we are all experiencing with COVID-19 is awe-inspiring .
`` This moment is as true a testament there is to the human spirit . ''
Harry and Meghan added they will be sharing information and resources to help people `` navigate the uncertainty '' over coronavirus , as well as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people around the world are `` connecting in ways big and small to lift all of us up '' .
Earlier on Wednesday , William and Harry 's cousin Princess Beatrice cancelled her planned wedding reception in Buckingham Palace Gardens because of the coronavirus .

The Queen has issued a message of solidarity following the coronavirus outbreak, saying families around the UK were entering "a period of great concern and uncertainty".
It comes after she moved from Buckingham Palace to Windsor Castle a week earlier than planned for the Easter period - and will likely stay there longer than originally thought - with coronavirus at its most widespread in London.
She has also cancelled a number of her public appearances in the coming months.
In a statement, she said: "As Philip and I arrive at Windsor today, we know that many individuals and families across the United Kingdom, and around the world, are entering a period of great concern and uncertainty.
"We are all being advised to change our normal routines and regular patterns of life for the greater good of the communities we live in and, in particular, to protect the most vulnerable within them.
"At times such as these, I am reminded that our nation's history has been forged by people and communities coming together to work as one, concentrating our combined efforts with a focus on the common goal.
"We are enormously thankful for the expertise and commitment of our scientists, medical practitioners and emergency and public services; but now more than any time in our recent past, we all have a vitally important part to play as individuals - today and in the coming days, weeks and months.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:47 Lockdown looms for London
"Many of us will need to find new ways of staying in touch with each other and making sure that loved ones are safe. I am certain we are up to that challenge. You can be assured that my family and I stand ready to play our part."
The 93-year-old monarch's message comes after both Prince William and Prince Harry paid tribute to the "awe-inspiring" response of the public to the coronavirus crisis.
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Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:50 'Let's pull together': William's virus message
In separate social media messages, the two princes vowed to try and help coordinate community efforts to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic.
William spoke of Britons' "unique ability to pull together" in the face of adversity, as he marked the launch of a coronavirus appeal by the National Emergencies Trust.
Meanwhile, Harry and Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, also promised their own action in the face of the public health crisis.
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
In an Instagram post, the couple said: "These are uncertain times. And now, more than ever, we need each other.
"We need each other for truth, for support, and to feel less alone during a time that can honestly feel quite scary.
"There are so many around the world who need support right now, who are working tirelessly to respond to this crisis behind the scenes, on the frontline, or at home.
"Our willingness, as a people, to step up in the face of what we are all experiencing with COVID-19 is awe-inspiring.
"This moment is as true a testament there is to the human spirit."
Harry and Meghan added they will be sharing information and resources to help people "navigate the uncertainty" over coronavirus, as well as highlighting "inspiring stories" of how people around the world are "connecting in ways big and small to lift all of us up".
Earlier on Wednesday, William and Harry's cousin Princess Beatrice cancelled her planned wedding reception in Buckingham Palace Gardens because of the coronavirus.


news--2020-03-19--Coronavirus: UK 'can turn the tide' in the next 12 weeks, Boris Johnson says

Boris Johnson has said the UK `` can turn the tide '' against coronavirus in the next 12 weeks - but subsequently admitted the government `` do n't know how long '' the crisis will last for .
Speaking at a Downing Street news conference , the prime minister revealed the government is in talks to buy `` hundreds of thousands '' of tests to reveal if people are immune .
He also said the first British patient had been put in a randomised trial for a treatment for COVID-19 .
Mr Johnson thanked Britons for their `` huge efforts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stopping the spread of the disease .
He said : `` We 're asking students to put their education on hold , we 're asking people not to socialise in the normal way and already we can see the impact this is having on the UK economy and on business , on great , great companies .
`` So it 's vital that we in government stand behind them when what we are asking everyone to do is so crucial for saving literally thousands of lives by fighting this virus . ''
Quizzed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ over his 12-week assessment - and whether he was saying UK life could return to normal by the summer - Mr Johnson said : `` I am very confident that we 'll get this thing done .
`` I am very confident that we 'll beat coronavirus .
`` I think we can turn the tide within the next 12 weeks , but it depends on collective , resolute action .
`` The encouraging thing is the more disciplined we can all be in doing that , the greater the chances the scientific @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up with fantastic results on testing to say nothing of the other medical treatments . ''
: : Listen to All Out Politics on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker However , later asked what he meant by `` turning the tide '' , the prime minister admitted the government `` do n't know how long '' the coronavirus outbreak will last for .
`` At the moment , the disease is proceeding in a way that does not seem yet to be responding to our interventions , '' he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the measures that we 're asking the public to take and better testing , scientific progress , will enable us to get on top of it within the next 12 weeks and turn the tide .
`` Now , I can not stand here and tell you by the end of June we will be on the downward slope .
`` It 's possible , but I simply ca n't say that 's for certain .
Of course not .
`` We do n't know where we are , we do n't @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on for .
`` But what I can say is this is going to be finite , we will turn the tide and I can see how to do it within the next 12 weeks . ''
Mr Johnson then added : `` I 'm often accused of being unnecessarily boosterish about things and I certainly do n't want to strike that note today . ''
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker The prime minister said the UK was `` rapidly becoming @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , including about the medicines that may treat and cure it .
`` We are in negotiations today to buy a so-called antibody test , as simple as a pregnancy test , that could tell whether you have had the disease .
`` It 's early days , but if it works as its proponents claim , then we will buy literally hundreds of thousands of these kits as soon as practicable because obviously it has the potential to be a total gamechanger .
`` Because once you know that you have had @ @ @ @ @ @ @ likely to be less vulnerable , you 're less likely to pass it on , and you can go back to work . ''
Mr Johnson said the UK was aiming to ramp up testing for coronavirus to 250,000 people a day .
He called on Britons to be `` reasonable '' in their grocery shopping , amid stockpiling that has left supermarket aisles empty of certain products , adding : `` Be considerate and thoughtful for others as you do it . ''
He also urged companies to `` think very carefully @ @ @ @ @ @ @ firms come under intense pressure due to the accompanying economic crisis .
`` You 're going to hear more tomorrow about what we 're going to do to support employees , '' Mr Johnson promised .
The prime minister is conducting daily televised news conferences , but said future events could be conducted `` remotely '' rather than have journalists invited into 10 Downing Street .
Despite the stringent measures the government is asking people to follow on distancing themselves from others , England 's chief medical officer Professor Chris Whitty said there @ @ @ @ @ @ @ those efforts would result in a slowing of the number of cases .
It comes as the number of people who have died after contracting coronavirus in the UK has risen to 144 .
As of 1pm on Thursday , there were 3,269 confirmed cases of coronavirus in the UK .

Boris Johnson has said the UK "can turn the tide" against coronavirus in the next 12 weeks - but subsequently admitted the government "don't know how long" the crisis will last for.
Speaking at a Downing Street news conference, the prime minister revealed the government is in talks to buy "hundreds of thousands" of tests to reveal if people are immune.
He also said the first British patient had been put in a randomised trial for a treatment for COVID-19.
Mr Johnson thanked Britons for their "huge efforts" in complying with government advice on stopping the spread of the disease.
He said: "We're asking students to put their education on hold, we're asking people not to socialise in the normal way and already we can see the impact this is having on the UK economy and on business, on great, great companies.
"So it's vital that we in government stand behind them when what we are asking everyone to do is so crucial for saving literally thousands of lives by fighting this virus."
Quizzed by Sky News political editor Beth Rigby over his 12-week assessment - and whether he was saying UK life could return to normal by the summer - Mr Johnson said: "I am very confident that we'll get this thing done.
"I am very confident that we'll beat coronavirus.
"I think we can turn the tide within the next 12 weeks, but it depends on collective, resolute action.
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"The encouraging thing is the more disciplined we can all be in doing that, the greater the chances the scientific community will be able soon to come up with fantastic results on testing to say nothing of the other medical treatments."
:: Listen to All Out Politics on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
However, later asked what he meant by "turning the tide", the prime minister admitted the government "don't know how long" the coronavirus outbreak will last for.
"At the moment, the disease is proceeding in a way that does not seem yet to be responding to our interventions," he said.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:10 Coronavirus: Which groups are most at risk?
"I believe a combination of the measures that we're asking the public to take and better testing, scientific progress, will enable us to get on top of it within the next 12 weeks and turn the tide.
"Now, I cannot stand here and tell you by the end of June we will be on the downward slope.
"It's possible, but I simply can't say that's for certain. Of course not.
"We don't know where we are, we don't know how long this thing will go on for.
"But what I can say is this is going to be finite, we will turn the tide and I can see how to do it within the next 12 weeks."
Mr Johnson then added: "I'm often accused of being unnecessarily boosterish about things and I certainly don't want to strike that note today."
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
The prime minister said the UK was "rapidly becoming so much better" at understanding coronavirus, including about the medicines that may treat and cure it.
"We are in negotiations today to buy a so-called antibody test, as simple as a pregnancy test, that could tell whether you have had the disease.
"It's early days, but if it works as its proponents claim, then we will buy literally hundreds of thousands of these kits as soon as practicable because obviously it has the potential to be a total gamechanger.
"Because once you know that you have had it, you know that you are likely to be less vulnerable, you're less likely to pass it on, and you can go back to work."
Mr Johnson said the UK was aiming to ramp up testing for coronavirus to 250,000 people a day.
He called on Britons to be "reasonable" in their grocery shopping, amid stockpiling that has left supermarket aisles empty of certain products, adding: "Be considerate and thoughtful for others as you do it."
He also urged companies to "think very carefully" before laying off staff, as firms come under intense pressure due to the accompanying economic crisis.
"You're going to hear more tomorrow about what we're going to do to support employees," Mr Johnson promised.
The prime minister is conducting daily televised news conferences, but said future events could be conducted "remotely" rather than have journalists invited into 10 Downing Street.
Despite the stringent measures the government is asking people to follow on distancing themselves from others, England's chief medical officer Professor Chris Whitty said there would be a "lag" before those efforts would result in a slowing of the number of cases.
It comes as the number of people who have died after contracting coronavirus in the UK has risen to 144.
As of 1pm on Thursday, there were 3,269 confirmed cases of coronavirus in the UK.


news--2020-03-19--Coronavirus: EU's Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier tests positive for COVID-19

Michel Barnier , the EU 's Brexit negotiator , has tested positive for coronavirus .
The 69-year-old confirmed that he has COVID-19 , the disease caused by the coronavirus , in a message posted on his Twitter account .
He wrote : `` I would like to inform you that I have tested positive for # COVID19 .
`` I am doing well and in good spirits .
I am following all the necessary instructions , as is my team .
`` For all those affected already , and for all those currently in isolation , we will get through @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a number of messages of goodwill , including from European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and EU Council President Charles Michel .
Ms von der Leyen will be tested for COVID-19 following Mr Barnier 's diagnosis , commission spokesman Eric Mamer said .
The pair last met two weeks ago and so far Ms von der Leyen has not displayed any symptoms .
The worldwide COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in negotiations between Britain and the EU about a future trade deal scheduled for this week being cancelled .
Despite this , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ texts for the future relationship between the two sides on Wednesday .
Prime Minister Boris Johnson has insisted that he will not ask for an extension to the Brexit transition period , due to come to an end in December , because of coronavirus .
`` It 's not a subject that 's being regularly discussed , I can tell you , in Downing Street at the moment , '' he said .
`` There is legislation in place that I have no intention of changing . ''
Negotiations are due to resume @ @ @ @ @ @ @ take place in person .
The PM 's official spokesman said : `` We of course send Michel Barnier our best wishes .
`` In relation to Brexit negotiations ... we have been in close conversation with the EU about looking at ways to continue progressing the negotiations .
`` Both sides have shared their texts of potential legal agreements . ''
Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab said the government was still committed to striking a post-Brexit free trade deal with Brussels by the end of 2020 .
`` The negotiating texts have been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the 21st century there is scope for this to be done through teleconferencing and remotely - at least for the period it is required , '' he said .
`` I wo n't go any further than the PM at this point .
We do n't want to extend , we want to get this done .
`` We do n't want any more uncertainty than we have already had from this process . ''

Michel Barnier, the EU's Brexit negotiator, has tested positive for coronavirus.
The 69-year-old confirmed that he has COVID-19, the disease caused by the coronavirus, in a message posted on his Twitter account.
He wrote: "I would like to inform you that I have tested positive for #COVID19.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:19 Europe begins to grind to a halt as strict rules imposed
"I am doing well and in good spirits. I am following all the necessary instructions, as is my team.
"For all those affected already, and for all those currently in isolation, we will get through this together."
The news prompted a number of messages of goodwill, including from European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and EU Council President Charles Michel.
Ms von der Leyen will be tested for COVID-19 following Mr Barnier's diagnosis, commission spokesman Eric Mamer said.
The pair last met two weeks ago and so far Ms von der Leyen has not displayed any symptoms.
The worldwide COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in negotiations between Britain and the EU about a future trade deal scheduled for this week being cancelled.
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Despite this, the UK and EU did exchange draft legal texts for the future relationship between the two sides on Wednesday.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson has insisted that he will not ask for an extension to the Brexit transition period, due to come to an end in December, because of coronavirus.
"It's not a subject that's being regularly discussed, I can tell you, in Downing Street at the moment," he said.
"There is legislation in place that I have no intention of changing."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:10 Coronavirus: Which groups are most at risk?
Negotiations are due to resume next week, but they might not take place in person.
The PM's official spokesman said: "We of course send Michel Barnier our best wishes.
"In relation to Brexit negotiations... we have been in close conversation with the EU about looking at ways to continue progressing the negotiations.
"Both sides have shared their texts of potential legal agreements."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:44 Cities across globe empty amid virus lockdowns
Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab said the government was still committed to striking a post-Brexit free trade deal with Brussels by the end of 2020.
"The negotiating texts have been exchanged. I would have thought in the 21st century there is scope for this to be done through teleconferencing and remotely - at least for the period it is required," he said.
"I won't go any further than the PM at this point. We don't want to extend, we want to get this done.
"We don't want any more uncertainty than we have already had from this process."


news--2020-03-19--Coronavirus: London police warn over scammers posing as door-to-door COVID-19 testers

Scammers posing as coronavirus testers are trying to “ cash in ” on the crisis by targeting vulnerable people , police have warned .
South London 's Lambeth force said they had reports that `` individuals may be taking advantage of the vulnerable by posing as door-to-door coronavirus testers in order to gain access to people 's properties '' .
They said people should call them on 999 if anyone comes to their door and claims to be conducting virus tests .
Neither the police nor the NHS are conducting such tests .
`` Unfortunately there are some people who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's vulnerabilities at a time when they may be distracted by concerns regarding the coronavirus , '' said a Metropolitan Police briefing note .
Residents in Isleworth , west London , were also warned by local officers about the door-to-door testing scam .
The official police advice is : `` If someone knocks at your door claiming to be from a company or organisation , first check their ID .
`` If you 're not happy , do n't let them in .
Ask the person to wait outside , shut the door @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trusted method .
If they 're genuine , they 'll understand . ''
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker .
Police also warned that scammers may eventually try to use the crisis to trick people into revealing personal and financial details using `` coronavirus-themed phishing emails '' and `` malicious attachments '' .
The number of people who have died after contracting coronavirus in England rose to 128 in the latest figures - an increase of 29 in 24 hours .

Scammers posing as coronavirus testers are trying to “cash in” on the crisis by targeting vulnerable people, police have warned.
South London's Lambeth force said they had reports that "individuals may be taking advantage of the vulnerable by posing as door-to-door coronavirus testers in order to gain access to people's properties".
They said people should call them on 999 if anyone comes to their door and claims to be conducting virus tests.
Neither the police nor the NHS are conducting such tests.
"Unfortunately there are some people who will try to cash in on people's vulnerabilities at a time when they may be distracted by concerns regarding the coronavirus," said a Metropolitan Police briefing note.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:31 Londoners without daycare use baby for workout
Residents in Isleworth, west London, were also warned by local officers about the door-to-door testing scam.
The official police advice is: "If someone knocks at your door claiming to be from a company or organisation, first check their ID.
"If you're not happy, don't let them in. Ask the person to wait outside, shut the door and contact the organisation by using a trusted method. If they're genuine, they'll understand."
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker.
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Police also warned that scammers may eventually try to use the crisis to trick people into revealing personal and financial details using "coronavirus-themed phishing emails" and "malicious attachments".
The number of people who have died after contracting coronavirus in England rose to 128 in the latest figures - an increase of 29 in 24 hours.


news--2020-03-19--Coronavirus: Number of COVID-19 deaths in Italy surpasses China as total reaches 3,405

The number of coronavirus patients to have died in Italy is now higher than the recorded death toll in China - where the outbreak began .
Some 427 more people with COVID-19 have died in Italy , taking the total number of deaths to 3,405 .
The number of confirmed coronavirus deaths in China is 3,245 , while Wuhan - the city where the first case emerged - reported no new infections on Thursday .
Italy 's latest figure is a slight improvement on the day before , when there were 475 deaths .
China 's population is more than @ @ @ @ @ @ @ its number of recorded cases is far higher - 80,907 compared with 41,035 .
However , experts believe the total number of infections in Italy is significantly higher because testing is largely limited to those arriving for hospital care .
A nurse at a Milan hospital , Daniela Confalonieri , said : `` Unfortunately we ca n't contain the situation in Lombardy .
`` There 's a high level of contagion and we 're not even counting the dead anymore . ''
The army has been called in in Bergamo , northeast of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ number of dead .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Italy has been on total lockdown since 9 March and on Thursday it was extended until further notice , instead of ending next month .
There have been more than 227,000 suspected and confirmed coronavirus cases worldwide and more than 9,300 deaths , according to Johns Hopkins University , which is tracking the outbreak .
Experts have warned the peak of the spread of the virus there may not arrive until mid-April @ @ @ @ @ @ @ country 's hardest hit area , and possibly later in other regions .
Health authorities have cited a variety of reasons for Italy 's high number of coronavirus deaths including its large population of elderly people .
Italy has the world 's second-oldest population and the vast majority of those who have died - 87 % - were over 70 .
Virologist Jonas Schmidt-Chanasit said it could also be explained in part by the almost total breakdown of the health system in some areas .
`` That 's what happens when the health @ @ @ @ @ @ @ During a visit to Milan , the head of a Chinese Red Cross delegation helping advise Italy said he was shocked to see so many people walking around , using public transportation and eating out .
Sun Shuopeng said Wuhan saw infections peak only after a month of a strictly enforced lockdown .
`` Right now we need to stop all economic activity and we need to stop the mobility of people , '' he said .
`` All people should be staying at home in quarantine . ''

The number of coronavirus patients to have died in Italy is now higher than the recorded death toll in China - where the outbreak began.
Some 427 more people with COVID-19 have died in Italy, taking the total number of deaths to 3,405.
The number of confirmed coronavirus deaths in China is 3,245, while Wuhan - the city where the first case emerged - reported no new infections on Thursday.
Italy's latest figure is a slight improvement on the day before, when there were 475 deaths.
China's population is more than twenty times larger than Italy's and its number of recorded cases is far higher - 80,907 compared with 41,035.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:21 How Italians are coping under lockdown
However, experts believe the total number of infections in Italy is significantly higher because testing is largely limited to
those arriving for hospital care.
A nurse at a Milan hospital, Daniela Confalonieri, said: "Unfortunately we can't contain the situation in Lombardy.
"There's a high level of contagion and we're not even counting the dead anymore."
The army has been called in in Bergamo, northeast of Milan, to help deal with the number of dead.
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Italy has been on total lockdown since 9 March and on Thursday it was extended until further notice, instead of ending next month.
There have been more than 227,000 suspected and confirmed coronavirus cases worldwide and more than 9,300 deaths, according to Johns Hopkins University, which is tracking the outbreak.
Experts have warned the peak of the spread of the virus there may not arrive until mid-April in the north, so far the country's hardest hit area, and possibly later in other regions.
Health authorities have cited a variety of reasons for Italy's high number of coronavirus deaths including its large population of elderly people.
Image: Italy's large population of elderly people has been cited as a reason for its high death toll
Italy has the world's second-oldest population and the vast majority of those who have died - 87% - were over 70.
Virologist Jonas Schmidt-Chanasit said it could also be explained in part by the almost total breakdown of the health system in some areas.
"That's what happens when the health system collapses," he said.
During a visit to Milan, the head of a Chinese Red Cross delegation helping advise Italy said he was shocked to see so many people walking around, using public transportation and eating out.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:55 Italy: Obituaries show huge surge in virus deaths
Sun Shuopeng said Wuhan saw infections peak only after a month of a strictly enforced lockdown.
"Right now we need to stop all economic activity and we need to stop the mobility of people," he said.
"All people should be staying at home in quarantine."


news--2020-03-19--Coronavirus: Next fears £1bn hit to sales as 'people don't buy outfits to stay at home'

Retailers have issued stark warnings about the impact of the coronavirus - with Next telling investors it could sustain a hit of more than £1bn .
In a candid update , chief executive Simon Wolfson said : `` People do not buy a new outfit to stay at home . ''
The privately held company cautioned it may be forced to take `` radical '' action on wages to help cut costs - including redundancies - but did not reveal any specific measures for the moment .
`` Demand will be the biggest issue and although the virus is likely @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not believe this will be as damaging as the very significant drop in sales sustained both in retail and online , '' Lord Wolfson added .
A hit of £1bn is equal to 25 % of Next 's annual sales , and the retailer says it is planning to keep 498 stores open until the government orders closures nationwide .
Burberry estimates that sales in the final weeks of March will be down by as much as 80 % - with demand for luxury goods disappearing due to restrictions imposed worldwide .
: @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker .
Chief executive Marco Gobbetti said : `` Since our February update , the material negative effect of COVID-19 on luxury demand has intensified and is now impacting the industry in all regions . ''
The COVID-19 pandemic has also forced Inditex , the owner of Zara , to shut 3,785 stores globally .
Inditex - whose other brands include Pull & Bear and Bershka - said it is currently `` too early '' to quantify the pandemic 's impact , but it has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ inventory for the spring and summer period .
The global economy is , according to many economists , almost certain to be in recession given the scale of the disruption .
COVID-19 , the illness caused by the coronavirus , has infected almost 220,000 people and killed more almost 9,000 to date , including 104 in the UK .
Countries such as France have ordered retailers to close their doors .
Only stores providing food and other basic supplies are being allowed to remain open .
Online deliveries are still allowed despite the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ calls to halt its operations .
Unions in France claim Amazon workers face non-payment if they fail to turn up because of coronavirus fears - and hundreds of staff members have been protesting outside a warehouse south of Paris .

Retailers have issued stark warnings about the impact of the coronavirus - with Next telling investors it could sustain a hit of more than £1bn.
In a candid update, chief executive Simon Wolfson said: "People do not buy a new outfit to stay at home."
The privately held company cautioned it may be forced to take "radical" action on wages to help cut costs - including redundancies - but did not reveal any specific measures for the moment.
Image: Next fears it may take a hit of £1bn because of the outbreak
"Demand will be the biggest issue and although the virus is likely to impact our operations, we do not believe this will be as damaging as the very significant drop in sales sustained both in retail and online," Lord Wolfson added.
A hit of £1bn is equal to 25% of Next's annual sales, and the retailer says it is planning to keep 498 stores open until the government orders closures nationwide.
Burberry estimates that sales in the final weeks of March will be down by as much as 80% - with demand for luxury goods disappearing due to restrictions imposed worldwide.
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker.
Chief executive Marco Gobbetti said: "Since our February update, the material negative effect of COVID-19 on luxury demand has intensified and is now impacting the industry in all regions."
The COVID-19 pandemic has also forced Inditex, the owner of Zara, to shut 3,785 stores globally.
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Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:23 London landmarks were all but deserted as the UK prepares for COVID-19 cases to escalate
Inditex - whose other brands include Pull & Bear and Bershka - said it is currently "too early" to quantify the pandemic's impact, but it has provisionally wrote down £263m worth of its inventory for the spring and summer period.
The global economy is, according to many economists, almost certain to be in recession given the scale of the disruption.
COVID-19, the illness caused by the coronavirus, has infected almost 220,000 people and killed more almost 9,000 to date, including 104 in the UK.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:24 Impact of coronavirus on London Fashion Week
Countries such as France have ordered retailers to close their doors. Only stores providing food and other basic supplies are being allowed to remain open.
Online deliveries are still allowed despite the lockdown, but Amazon has been facing calls to halt its operations.
Unions in France claim Amazon workers face non-payment if they fail to turn up because of coronavirus fears - and hundreds of staff members have been protesting outside a warehouse south of Paris.


news--2020-03-19--Coronavirus: 'Your NHS needs you' - Thousands of retired doctors and nurses urged to return

Tens of thousands of retired healthcare professionals are being urged to return to work to help the NHS through the coronavirus crisis .
Up to 65,000 former doctors and nurses are being told `` your NHS needs you '' in the hope they return to fight COVID-19 .
Hundreds of new cases are being confirmed in the UK each day - with an additional 643 in the latest 24-hour figures .
It is thought that retired emergency service staff could also come back , as well as recently retired firefighters under 70 .
According to Mayor of London Sadiq Khan @ @ @ @ @ @ @ being written to so they could carry out back-office functions .
On top of that , final-year medical and nursing students are being offered temporary work to help ease the burden on the health service .
But it is former NHS employees who have been sent the biggest rallying call and those who have left in the last three years have been asked to register again with regulatory bodies .
Retirees will then be assessed to see what sort of help they can offer .
Ruth May , chief nursing officer for England @ @ @ @ @ @ @ service gears up to deal with the greatest global health threat in its history , my message to former colleagues is 'Your NHS Needs You ' .
`` Our wonderful nurses in every corner of the country are preparing to change the way we work so that we can provide the right care for the rising numbers of people who will need it .
`` But we ca n't do it alone , so I am urging all recent former nurses to lend us your expertise and experience during this pandemic , because @ @ @ @ @ @ @ help to save lives .
`` And I 'm grateful for senior students providing expert care in this time with their NHS colleagues . ''
The General Medical Council ( GMC ) is also asking for help from another 15,500 doctors who have left the register since 2017 , and the Nursing and Midwifery Council is writing to 50,000 who have had their registration lapse in the last three years .
Those coming back will be asked to fill a range of roles - including non-clinical jobs - depending on their experience and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out of work .
Professor Stephen Powis , national medical director for the NHS , said : `` Our hardworking NHS staff are working round the clock to get ready for the peak of the pandemic , and today we are calling on former staff to come back and help us .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker '' It is only right we use every means at our disposal to bolster the frontline in the face of this unprecedented challenge for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ return to the NHS now , these thousands of well-qualified and compassionate people will make more of a difference than ever before - not just to patients , but to colleagues and the wider community . ''
Health Secretary Matt Hancock added : `` To further boost the ranks of our NHS , we are now turning to people who have recently left the healthcare professions who can bring their experience and expertise to our health system .
`` They can play a crucial role in maximising our capacity to fight this outbreak @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they will be hugely welcomed . ''

Tens of thousands of retired healthcare professionals are being urged to return to work to help the NHS through the coronavirus crisis.
Up to 65,000 former doctors and nurses are being told "your NHS needs you" in the hope they return to fight COVID-19.
Hundreds of new cases are being confirmed in the UK each day - with an additional 643 in the latest 24-hour figures.
It is thought that retired emergency service staff could also come back, as well as recently retired firefighters under 70.
According to Mayor of London Sadiq Khan, recently retired police officers were also being written to so they could carry out back-office functions.
On top of that, final-year medical and nursing students are being offered temporary work to help ease the burden on the health service.
But it is former NHS employees who have been sent the biggest rallying call and those who have left in the last three years have been asked to register again with regulatory bodies.
Retirees will then be assessed to see what sort of help they can offer.
Ruth May, chief nursing officer for England, said: "As the health service gears up to deal with the greatest global health threat in its history, my message to former colleagues is 'Your NHS Needs You'.
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"Our wonderful nurses in every corner of the country are preparing to change the way we work so that we can provide the right care for the rising numbers of people who will need it.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:47 Prime Minister Boris Johnson has said he thinks the country can
"But we can't do it alone, so I am urging all recent former nurses to lend us your expertise and experience during this pandemic, because I have no doubt that you can help to save lives.
"And I'm grateful for senior students providing expert care in this time with their NHS colleagues."
The General Medical Council (GMC) is also asking for help from another 15,500 doctors who have left the register since 2017, and the Nursing and Midwifery Council is writing to 50,000 who have had their registration lapse in the last three years.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:41 Coronavirus advice to be aired in TV adverts
Those coming back will be asked to fill a range of roles - including non-clinical jobs - depending on their experience and the amount of time they have spent out of work.
Professor Stephen Powis, national medical director for the NHS, said: "Our hardworking NHS staff are working round the clock to get ready for the peak of the pandemic, and today we are calling on former staff to come back and help us.
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"It is only right we use every means at our disposal to bolster the frontline in the face of this unprecedented challenge for the NHS.
"By offering to return to the NHS now, these thousands of well-qualified and compassionate people will make more of a difference than ever before - not just to patients, but to colleagues and the wider community."
Health Secretary Matt Hancock added: "To further boost the ranks of our NHS, we are now turning to people who have recently left the healthcare professions who can bring their experience and expertise to our health system.
"They can play a crucial role in maximising our capacity to fight this outbreak - and wherever they can help, they will be hugely welcomed."


news--2020-03-19--Coronavirus: US citizens told to avoid all international travel - and those abroad told to return

The US is advising its citizens to avoid all international travel due to the coronavirus pandemic , while those who are abroad have been told to arrange their immediate return home .
In a global level four health advisory issued by the state department on Thursday , those US citizens who are temporarily abroad were told to come back unless they were `` prepared to remain abroad for an indefinite period '' .
`` If you choose to travel internationally , your travel plans may be severely disrupted , and you may be forced to remain outside of the United @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the advice added .
Meanwhile , Donald Trump said an anti-malaria drug that could help fight coronavirus could be available in the US within days .
The president said hydroxychloroquine , which is also used for severe arthiritis , lupus and autoimmune condition Sjrogen 's syndrome , has shown `` very encouraging early results '' and is set to be approved for coronavirus use quickly .
`` We 're going make that drug available almost immediately ... it could be available in days , '' he said .
`` It 's a medical @ @ @ @ @ @ @ war . ''
He said he is getting rid of bureaucracy and red tape with the Food and Drugs Association ( FDA ) to ensure drugs can be made available as soon as possible to treat those with COVID-19 .
Biopharma company Bayer is donating to the FDA three million tablets of hydroxychloroquine , which is cheap and has been around for more than 70 years .
: : Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and Spreaker A small study in France found only 25 % @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the drug tested positive after six days , compared to 90 % who did not receive the drug in the same timeframe .
Mr Trump also said antiviral medicine remdesivir - originally developed to treat Ebola - is `` close to being approved '' by the FDA .
It is currently going through clinical trials in the US and around the world .
The US has the sixth highest number of coronavirus cases in the world , with nearly 11,000 confirmed on Wednesday and 154 deaths - mostly in Washington state .
FDA @ @ @ @ @ @ @ drugs are `` going through the normal process '' in the US , with the FDA making sure their safety and efficacy is key before giving them approval .
The oncologist said they are looking at drugs already approved for other treatments to ensure they can get a medicine to patients quickly and with knowledge of their side effects .
Mr Trump said the US has been carrying out drug tests for a vaccine and therapies since January , as soon as they knew about the virus .
He said `` the world @ @ @ @ @ @ @ China not releasing information early on about COVID-19 - which the president calls `` the Chinese virus '' .
With regards to the medicines , Dr Hahn added : `` We have the right drug but it may not be in the right dosage form , it 's important we get that right .
`` We 're working to get the drugs into the hands of users . ''
To be able to get the drugs to patients quickly he said they will utilise the `` compassionate use '' pathway which allows those @ @ @ @ @ @ @ disease to try experimental drugs .
Dr Hahn added that the FDA has 10,000 scientists and doctors `` working around the clock '' to create a vaccine for COVID-19 , which is in its second stage now .
`` We 're working hard to fast track the vaccine as much as possible , '' he said .

The US is advising its citizens to avoid all international travel due to the coronavirus pandemic, while those who are abroad have been told to arrange their immediate return home.
In a global level four health advisory issued by the state department on Thursday, those US citizens who are temporarily abroad were told to come back unless they were "prepared to remain abroad for an indefinite period".
"If you choose to travel internationally, your travel plans may be severely disrupted, and you may be forced to remain outside of the United States for an indefinite timeframe," the advice added.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:00 US fast-tracks approval for virus treatments
Meanwhile, Donald Trump said an anti-malaria drug that could help fight coronavirus could be available in the US within days.
The president said hydroxychloroquine, which is also used for severe arthiritis, lupus and autoimmune condition Sjrogen's syndrome, has shown "very encouraging early results" and is set to be approved for coronavirus use quickly.
"We're going make that drug available almost immediately...it could be available in days," he said.
"It's a medical war, we have to win this war."
He said he is getting rid of bureaucracy and red tape with the Food and Drugs Association (FDA) to ensure drugs can be made available as soon as possible to treat those with COVID-19.
Biopharma company Bayer is donating to the FDA three million tablets of hydroxychloroquine, which is cheap and has been around for more than 70 years.
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:: Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Spreaker
A small study in France found only 25% of patients with coronavirus who were given the drug tested positive after six days, compared to 90% who did not receive the drug in the same timeframe.
Mr Trump also said antiviral medicine remdesivir - originally developed to treat Ebola - is "close to being approved" by the FDA.
It is currently going through clinical trials in the US and around the world.
The US has the sixth highest number of coronavirus cases in the world, with nearly 11,000 confirmed on Wednesday and 154 deaths - mostly in Washington state.
FDA chief Dr Stephen Hahn reassured Americans both drugs are "going through the normal process" in the US, with the FDA making sure their safety and efficacy is key before giving them approval.
The oncologist said they are looking at drugs already approved for other treatments to ensure they can get a medicine to patients quickly and with knowledge of their side effects.
Image: FDA chief Dr Stephen Hahn said drugs trials are going through the same processes as normal, just fast-tracked
Mr Trump said the US has been carrying out drug tests for a vaccine and therapies since January, as soon as they knew about the virus.
He said "the world is paying a big price" for China not releasing information early on about COVID-19 - which the president calls "the Chinese virus".
With regards to the medicines, Dr Hahn added: "We have the right drug but it may not be in the right dosage form, it's important we get that right.
"We're working to get the drugs into the hands of users."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:10 Who is most at risk if they are infected by the coronavirus?
To be able to get the drugs to patients quickly he said they will utilise the "compassionate use" pathway which allows those who are dying or have a serious disease to try experimental drugs.
Dr Hahn added that the FDA has 10,000 scientists and doctors "working around the clock" to create a vaccine for COVID-19, which is in its second stage now.
"We're working hard to fast track the vaccine as much as possible," he said.


news--2020-03-19--Coronavirus: UK plans to buy antibody tests which may be 'gamechanger' in fighting COVID-19 spread

The government plans to purchase hundreds of thousands of antibody tests to detect if someone has already had coronavirus - in what could be a `` gamechanger '' in the UK 's response to the outbreak , Boris Johnson said .
The prime minister said negotiations are currently ongoing and the kits could be bought if the tests prove effective in revealing who has had COVID-19 already and can therefore return to society .
The human body produces antibodies to fight infection , so by measuring antibodies in the blood , doctors can detect whether someone has had the infection @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) said understanding who has previously had COVID-19 will allow it to refine its estimates of how many people in the UK will be affected and the rate of spread .
Testing on those with suspected coronavirus will also be `` massively increasing '' , with NHS staff a priority , the prime minister said .
He said daily testing will rise `` from 5,000 a day , to 10,000 to 25,000 and then 250,000 '' .
In his now daily coronavirus briefing , Mr Johnson said : `` To give you an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ track , we 're in negotiations today to buy a so-called antibody test , as simple as a pregnancy test which can tell whether you have had the disease and it 's early days , but if it works as its proponents claim , then we will buy literally hundreds of thousands of these kits as soon as practicable .
`` Because obviously it has the potential to be a total gamechanger . ''
An antibodies blood test is currently being developed by PHE which is analysing blood samples from people who have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there were 3,269 confirmed cases in the UK , and 144 deaths from the virus .
The Department of Health said 64,621 people have been tested , with 61,352 confirmed as negative .
PHE expects the antibody test to play a major role in being able to keep track of infections , with 1,500 tests a week at first .
Chief medical officer for England Professor Chris Whitty said on Thursday : `` On the antibody tests we should be clear that although we 're confident there will be antibody tests , we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the ones that are currently on the market are the right ones and that needs to be tested out .
`` And that 's something that is an absolute priority for Public Health England .
`` But once we have these , the key thing for in the first case health care workers and then other workers and members of society , we 'll be able to say to somebody , you 've had this virus , you 're not likely to get it again at least in the immediate term , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ return to work and now we can be confident you do n't need to be taking some of the precautions you 've been taking to date . ''
But he said `` there will be a while before we 've actually got this in large enough numbers '' and it is `` more useful '' the further along in the outbreak .
The prime minister also said British scientists are expecting to start trials for the first coronavirus vaccine within a month .
Chief scientific adviser Sir Patrick Vallance said the first patient @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and it will start in mid-April .
Those behind the vaccine have been given permission to commence human trials before animal tests are complete , the Guardian reported , in a bid to accelerate the development process .
Permission was granted after similar vaccines developed for other diseases were proved safe in human trials .
Professor Adrian Hill , head of the Jenner Institute at Oxford , told the Guardian : `` We are conscious that a vaccine is needed as soon as possible and certainly by June-July when we expect a big @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not a normal situation .
We will follow all standard trial safety requirements but as soon as we have a vaccine that 's working we anticipate there will be an accelerated pathway to get it deployed to save lives .
`` The more vaccine we can provide the sooner the better . ''
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker Mr Johnson also said he is `` absolutely confident that we can send coronavirus packing in this country '' and the tide can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
He said this could only be achieved if members of the public heed the government 's stay at home and social distancing advice .
However , he said he could not guarantee that by the end of June the peak would be on a `` downward slope '' - but promised restrictive measures `` would be finite '' .

The government plans to purchase hundreds of thousands of antibody tests to detect if someone has already had coronavirus - in what could be a "gamechanger" in the UK's response to the outbreak, Boris Johnson said.
The prime minister said negotiations are currently ongoing and the kits could be bought if the tests prove effective in revealing who has had COVID-19 already and can therefore return to society.
The human body produces antibodies to fight infection, so by measuring antibodies in the blood, doctors can detect whether someone has had the infection previously.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:47 UK can 'turn tide on virus within 12 weeks'
Public Health England (PHE) said understanding who has previously had COVID-19 will allow it to refine its estimates of how many people in the UK will be affected and the rate of spread.
Testing on those with suspected coronavirus will also be "massively increasing", with NHS staff a priority, the prime minister said.
He said daily testing will rise "from 5,000 a day, to 10,000 to 25,000 and then 250,000".
In his now daily coronavirus briefing, Mr Johnson said: "To give you an idea of what is coming down the track, we're in negotiations today to buy a so-called antibody test, as simple as a pregnancy test which can tell whether you have had the disease and it's early days, but if it works as its proponents claim, then we will buy literally hundreds of thousands of these kits as soon as practicable.
"Because obviously it has the potential to be a total gamechanger."
An antibodies blood test is currently being developed by PHE which is analysing blood samples from people who have recovered from COVID-19.
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Image: Mr Johnson said antibody tests will help determine how many cases there will be in the UK
By Thursday afternoon there were 3,269 confirmed cases in the UK, and 144 deaths from the virus.
The Department of Health said 64,621 people have been tested, with 61,352 confirmed as negative.
PHE expects the antibody test to play a major role in being able to keep track of infections, with 1,500 tests a week at first.
Chief medical officer for England Professor Chris Whitty said on Thursday: "On the antibody tests we should be clear that although we're confident there will be antibody tests, we're not absolutely confident yet about whether the ones that are currently on the market are the right ones and that needs to be tested out.
"And that's something that is an absolute priority for Public Health England.
"But once we have these, the key thing for in the first case health care workers and then other workers and members of society, we'll be able to say to somebody, you've had this virus, you're not likely to get it again at least in the immediate term, and now we can be confident you can return to work and now we can be confident you don't need to be taking some of the precautions you've been taking to date."
Image: The London Underground was empty at rush hour
But he said "there will be a while before we've actually got this in large enough numbers" and it is "more useful" the further along in the outbreak.
The prime minister also said British scientists are expecting to start trials for the first coronavirus vaccine within a month.
Chief scientific adviser Sir Patrick Vallance said the first patient enrolled on the trial on Thursday, and it will start in mid-April.
Those behind the vaccine have been given permission to commence human trials before animal tests are complete, the Guardian reported, in a bid to accelerate the development process.
Permission was granted after similar vaccines developed for other diseases were proved safe in human trials.
Professor Adrian Hill, head of the Jenner Institute at Oxford, told the Guardian: "We are conscious that a vaccine is needed as soon as possible and certainly by June-July when we expect a big peak in mortality.
"This is not a normal situation. We will follow all standard trial safety requirements but as soon as we have a vaccine that's working we anticipate there will be an accelerated pathway to get it deployed to save lives.
"The more vaccine we can provide the sooner the better."
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Mr Johnson also said he is "absolutely confident that we can send coronavirus packing in this country" and the tide can be turned within the next 12 weeks.
He said this could only be achieved if members of the public heed the government's stay at home and social distancing advice.
However, he said he could not guarantee that by the end of June the peak would be on a "downward slope" - but promised restrictive measures "would be finite".