news--2020-03-23--Coronavirus: First analysis reveals trends in UK's critical cases

More than 70 % of early coronavirus patients who have been admitted to intensive care units in the UK are men , with the vast majority having no severe existing conditions prior to being infected , official figures reveal .
The first analysis of people receiving critical hospital treatment after testing positive for COVID-19 spans 196 patients , who were all admitted between 29 February and 19 March .
The data covers all NHS adult , general intensive care and combined intensive care and high dependency units across England , Wales and Northern Ireland , plus some specialist critical care @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Intensive Care National Audit & Research Centre .
What is the profile of coronavirus patients in critical care ?
Of the 196 patients , 139 ( 71 % ) are men and 57 are women ( 29 % ) .
The average age of patients is 64 , with those aged between 70 and 79 the most common group at just under 30 % , followed by those aged 60 to 69 and then those between 50 and 59 .
Of critical care admissions , 10 % are aged 40 to 49 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up 5 % .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker .
Were those admitted to critical care in good health before being infected ?
None of the patients required `` total assistance '' to complete daily activities prior to becoming ill , with only 23 ( 13 % ) requiring `` some assistance '' and 155 ( 87 % ) requiring none at all .
Only three people ( 1.6 % ) had a severe respiratory condition before contracting coronavirus , four @ @ @ @ @ @ @ kidney condition , and seven ( 3.7 % ) had an impaired immune system .
Fifty of those admitted ( 28 % ) had a BMI , or body mass index , of under 25 , and 56 people ( 32 % ) had a BMI of between 25 and 30 .
There were 58 people ( 33 % ) with a BMI of between 30 and 40 , and 13 ( 7 % ) had a BMI of more than 40 .
According to NHS England , adults with a BMI of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ risk '' of developing some long-term conditions such as type 2 diabetes , while a score of more than 27.5 means they are at high risk .
Patients were generally given a good chance of survival .
Their average APACHE II ( Acute Physiologic Assessment and Chronic Health Evaluation II ) score , used to predict survival chances , was 16 out of possible 71 ( higher = more risk of death ) .
How long does it take for people to be discharged ?
Only 17 people ( 9 % ) from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ care , and 16 ( 8 % ) have died .
There are still 163 ( 83 % ) in an intensive unit .
For those who have been discharged or who have died , the average stay in critical care was three days .
But more than half of the 196 patients ( 104 ) have spent seven days in intensive care , with 37 of them having been in intensive care for 18 days - a sign of just how much demand there will be on vital beds for COVID-19 patients @ @ @ @ @ @ @ officer for England , said on Sunday that 12 % of adult critical care beds were currently occupied with coronavirus patients , adding : `` That will change drastically as we go through the epidemic . ''
What treatment was given to those who were discharged or died ?
Eleven of the 33 people ( 33 % ) who were discharged or who died received advanced respiratory support .
Six ( 18 % ) received advanced cardiovascular support and four ( 12 % ) received advanced kidney support .
Across all 196 patients @ @ @ @ @ @ @ % ) received mechanical ventilation within 24 hours of admission .

More than 70% of early coronavirus patients who have been admitted to intensive care units in the UK are men, with the vast majority having no severe existing conditions prior to being infected, official figures reveal.
The first analysis of people receiving critical hospital treatment after testing positive for COVID-19 spans 196 patients, who were all admitted between 29 February and 19 March.
The data covers all NHS adult, general intensive care and combined intensive care and high dependency units across England, Wales and Northern Ireland, plus some specialist critical care units.
It was compiled by the Intensive Care National Audit & Research Centre.
Image: Staff wearing protective masks at Heartlands Hospital, Birmingham
What is the profile of coronavirus patients in critical care?
Of the 196 patients, 139 (71%) are men and 57 are women (29%).
The average age of patients is 64, with those aged between 70 and 79 the most common group at just under 30%, followed by those aged 60 to 69 and then those between 50 and 59.
Of critical care admissions, 10% are aged 40 to 49, with those aged 30 to 39 making up 5%.
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker.
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Image: County Oak Medical Centre in Brighton
Were those admitted to critical care in good health before being infected?
None of the patients required "total assistance" to complete daily activities prior to becoming ill, with only 23 (13%) requiring "some assistance" and 155 (87%) requiring none at all.
Only three people (1.6%) had a severe respiratory condition before contracting coronavirus, four (2.1%) had a severe kidney condition, and seven (3.7%) had an impaired immune system.
Fifty of those admitted (28%) had a BMI, or body mass index, of under 25, and 56 people (32%) had a BMI of between 25 and 30.
There were 58 people (33%) with a BMI of between 30 and 40, and 13 (7%) had a BMI of more than 40.
According to NHS England, adults with a BMI of 23 or more have an "increased risk" of developing some long-term conditions such as type 2 diabetes, while a score of more than 27.5 means they are at high risk.
Patients were generally given a good chance of survival.
Their average APACHE II (Acute Physiologic Assessment and Chronic Health Evaluation II) score, used to predict survival chances, was 16 out of possible 71 (higher = more risk of death).
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:00 How to practice social distancing
How long does it take for people to be discharged?
Only 17 people (9%) from the 196 have been discharged from critical care, and 16 (8%) have died.
There are still 163 (83%) in an intensive unit.
For those who have been discharged or who have died, the average stay in critical care was three days.
But more than half of the 196 patients (104) have spent seven days in intensive care, with 37 of them having been in intensive care for 18 days - a sign of just how much demand there will be on vital beds for COVID-19 patients.
Jenny Harries, deputy chief medical officer for England, said on Sunday that 12% of adult critical care beds were currently occupied with coronavirus patients, adding: "That will change drastically as we go through the epidemic."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:08 PM: 'Don't think fresh air provides immunity'
What treatment was given to those who were discharged or died?
Eleven of the 33 people (33%) who were discharged or who died received advanced respiratory support.
Six (18%) received advanced cardiovascular support and four (12%) received advanced kidney support.
Across all 196 patients in the data, 132 (75.4%) received mechanical ventilation within 24 hours of admission.


news--2020-03-23--Coronavirus: UK lockdown could come 'very soon' as emergency laws rushed in

Britain could be locked down to force people into self-isolation `` very soon '' , as the prime minister considers racing new laws through the Commons in a day to tackle the coronavirus pandemic .
MPs are returning to parliament after the weekend to debate the government 's Coronavirus Bill in all its stages , before it goes to the House of Lords and becomes law by the end of this week .
The Commons debate follows a stark warning from the prime minister that the UK is heading towards a lockdown , after appeals to the public to stay @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Mother 's Day .
At his latest Downing Street news conference , Mr Johnson said further measures would be considered in the next 24 hours to prevent the spread of COVID-19 if people fail to stay two metres apart .
He admitted being outdoors was `` crucial for health , physical and mental well-being '' , but warned people not to think that `` fresh air in itself automatically provides some immunity '' .
Health Secretary Matt Hancock told Sky News ' Kay Burley @ Breakfast on Monday : `` We will enforce @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we need to - but I 'd much rather people follow the rules themselves , it would be much more straight forward . ''
`` If we need to go further in terms of people 's interactions then we will . ''
He added those decisions would be made `` very soon '' .
Ahead of the Commons debate , the government has also responded to a backlash against wealthy families fleeing towns and cities for holiday homes by attempting to stop them from travelling .
Updating guidance on non-essential travel , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ travel does not include visits to second homes , camp sites , caravan parks or similar , whether for isolation purposes or holidays .
`` People should remain in their primary residence .
Not taking these steps puts additional pressure on communities and services that are already at risk . ''
: : Listen to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple podcasts , Google podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker In other moves in the government 's war against the virus , 1.5 million letters are being sent to elderly and vulnerable people ordering @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of a so-called `` shielding '' process .
And as the UK lurches towards a lockdown , more high street stores are not opening , fast food chain McDonald 's is shutting its restaurants at 7pm and many local authorities are closing parks and open spaces .
A person at an old peoples ' home in Primrose Hill , north London , was pictured being carried out on a stretcher by medics wearing protective clothing .
The Coronavirus Bill , which runs to more than 320 pages , contains : • Police powers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ screening • Closing ports and airports if there is a shortage of Border Force staff .
The bill proposes that police , public health and immigration officers will be able to detain people suspected of having COVID-19 and exact fines of up to £1,000 for refusing to submit to a test .
Other powers in the bill include registering retired doctors or medical students , having video links in courts , banning public events and new rules for supermarkets on food supplies .
The bill states : `` We assume the vast majority @ @ @ @ @ @ @ health advice .
The policy aim of these provisions is to ensure that proportionate measures can be enforced if and when necessary .
`` The proposals will provide public health officers , constables and ( in some circumstances ) immigration officers with the means to enforce sensible public health restrictions , including returning people to places that they have been required to stay . ''
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker But while the opposition parties have promised to co-operate with the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ law speedily , Labour claimed after a weekend of `` public confusion and widespread non-compliance '' with social distancing that `` something has to change '' .
`` We now call on the government to move to enforced social distancing and greater social protection as a matter of urgency , '' said shadow health secretary Jon Ashworth .
There is also alarm in all parties over keeping the emergency legislation operating for two years .
Veteran Labour MP Harriet Harman , who chairs parliament 's human rights committee , has teamed up with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Andrew Mitchell and the SNP 's Joanna Cherry to limit the emergency powers to six or 12 months .
Downing Street has responded by offering to insert a review every six months and a vote in the Commons .
Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has told shops currently not obliged to shut that if they are not providing medicine or food they should close .
Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar suggested a tighter lockdown could also come into force in his country .
He thought scenes similar to those in the UK of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ advice and heading to public places was probably explained by people not realising how busy it would be .
`` I do n't think we should be berating people about this , '' he said .
Mr Varadkar added Ireland 's chief medical officer was looking at if a bigger lockdown is needed , commenting : `` If they recommend further restrictions , we will implement further restrictions . ''

Britain could be locked down to force people into self-isolation "very soon", as the prime minister considers racing new laws through the Commons in a day to tackle the coronavirus pandemic.
MPs are returning to parliament after the weekend to debate the government's Coronavirus Bill in all its stages, before it goes to the House of Lords and becomes law by the end of this week.
The Commons debate follows a stark warning from the prime minister that the UK is heading towards a lockdown, after appeals to the public to stay indoors were largely ignored during a sunny Mother's Day.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:55 An in-depth look at UK coronavirus deaths
At his latest Downing Street news conference, Mr Johnson said further measures would be considered in the next 24 hours to prevent the spread of COVID-19 if people fail to stay two metres apart.
He admitted being outdoors was "crucial for health, physical and mental well-being", but warned people not to think that "fresh air in itself automatically provides some immunity".
Image: The Coronavirus Bill will give the government more powers to deal with the outbreak
Health Secretary Matt Hancock told Sky News' Kay Burley@Breakfast on Monday: "We will enforce and bring in further strong measures if we need to - but I'd much rather people follow the rules themselves, it would be much more straight forward."
"If we need to go further in terms of people's interactions then we will."
He added those decisions would be made "very soon".
Ahead of the Commons debate, the government has also responded to a backlash against wealthy families fleeing towns and cities for holiday homes by attempting to stop them from travelling.
Advertisement
Updating guidance on non-essential travel, the government has now declared: "Essential travel does not include visits to second homes, camp sites, caravan parks or similar, whether for isolation purposes or holidays.
"People should remain in their primary residence. Not taking these steps puts additional pressure on communities and services that are already at risk."
:: Listen to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple podcasts, Google podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
In other moves in the government's war against the virus, 1.5 million letters are being sent to elderly and vulnerable people ordering them to stay at home as part of a so-called "shielding" process.
And as the UK lurches towards a lockdown, more high street stores are not opening, fast food chain McDonald's is shutting its restaurants at 7pm and many local authorities are closing parks and open spaces.
A person at an old peoples' home in Primrose Hill, north London, was pictured being carried out on a stretcher by medics wearing protective clothing.
Image: People have been ignoring advice to stay at home
The Coronavirus Bill, which runs to more than 320 pages, contains:
Police powers to detain suspected carriers for quarantine and screening
Restrictions on travel
Streamlining NHS procedures, including allowing death certificates by funeral directors
Closing ports and airports if there is a shortage of Border Force staff.
The bill proposes that police, public health and immigration officers will be able to detain people suspected of having COVID-19 and exact fines of up to £1,000 for refusing to submit to a test.
Other powers in the bill include registering retired doctors or medical students, having video links in courts, banning public events and new rules for supermarkets on food supplies.
Image: A person was carried out on a stretcher in in Primrose Hill, London
The bill states: "We assume the vast majority of people will comply with relevant public health advice. The policy aim of these provisions is to ensure that proportionate measures can be enforced if and when necessary.
"The proposals will provide public health officers, constables and (in some circumstances) immigration officers with the means to enforce sensible public health restrictions, including returning people to places that they have been required to stay."
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
But while the opposition parties have promised to co-operate with the government in enabling the legislation to become law speedily, Labour claimed after a weekend of "public confusion and widespread non-compliance" with social distancing that "something has to change".
"We now call on the government to move to enforced social distancing and greater social protection as a matter of urgency," said shadow health secretary Jon Ashworth.
There is also alarm in all parties over keeping the emergency legislation operating for two years.
Veteran Labour MP Harriet Harman, who chairs parliament's human rights committee, has teamed up with former Tory cabinet ministers David Davis and Andrew Mitchell and the SNP's Joanna Cherry to limit the emergency powers to six or 12 months.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 3:47 Has govt advice on social distancing become confusing?
Downing Street has responded by offering to insert a review every six months and a vote in the Commons.
Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has told shops currently not obliged to shut that if they are not providing medicine or food they should close.
Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar suggested a tighter lockdown could also come into force in his country.
He thought scenes similar to those in the UK of large groups of people ignoring social distancing advice and heading to public places was probably explained by people not realising how busy it would be.
"I don't think we should be berating people about this," he said.
Mr Varadkar added Ireland's chief medical officer was looking at if a bigger lockdown is needed, commenting: "If they recommend further restrictions, we will implement further restrictions."


news--2020-03-22--Coronavirus: Convicted rapist Harvey Weinstein tests positive in prison

Convicted rapist Harvey Weinstein has tested positive for coronavirus , a US federal prison union official has said .
The former Hollywood producer has been placed in isolation at Wende Correctional Facility , a maximum security prison east of Buffalo , New York .
He was moved from New York City 's Rikers Island jail where he is serving a 23-year sentence .
The president of the New York State Correctional Officers and Police Benevolent Association , Michael Powers , said he learned that Weinstein 's test came back positive on Sunday morning .
Several prison staff have since been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lawyer for Weinstein , Imran Ansari , said his legal team had not been notified of the coronavirus diagnosis .
`` Given Mr Weinstein 's state of health , we are of course concerned , if this is the case , and we are vigilantly monitoring the situation , '' Mr Ansari said .
: : Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , and Spreaker Weinstein , 68 , was convicted of sexually assaulting former production assistant Mimi Haleyi in 2006 and raping former aspiring actress Jessica @ @ @ @ @ @ @ earlier this year .
Prosecutors said he had committed a `` lifetime of abuse towards others '' .
His conviction was hailed as a victory for the # MeToo movement against sexual misconduct by powerful men .
More than 100 women , including famous actresses , have accused Weinstein of sexual misconduct stretching back decades .
He has denied the allegations , saying any sex was consensual .
Once one of Hollywood 's most influential figures , Weinstein won an Academy Award for producing Shakespeare In Love and was responsible for other acclaimed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Patient and Gangs Of New York .

Convicted rapist Harvey Weinstein has tested positive for coronavirus, a US federal prison union official has said.
The former Hollywood producer has been placed in isolation at Wende Correctional Facility, a maximum security prison east of Buffalo, New York.
He was moved from New York City's Rikers Island jail where he is serving a 23-year sentence.
The president of the New York State Correctional Officers and Police Benevolent Association, Michael Powers, said he learned that Weinstein's test came back positive on Sunday morning.
Several prison staff have since been quarantined, Mr Powers added.
Image: Weinstein looked frail as he attended court during his trial
A lawyer for Weinstein, Imran Ansari, said his legal team had not been notified of the coronavirus diagnosis.
"Given Mr Weinstein's state of health, we are of course concerned, if this is the case, and we are vigilantly monitoring the situation," Mr Ansari said.
:: Listen to Divided States on Apple podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and Spreaker
Weinstein, 68, was convicted of sexually assaulting former production assistant Mimi Haleyi in 2006 and raping former aspiring actress Jessica Mann in 2013 following a landmark trial earlier this year.
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Prosecutors said he had committed a "lifetime of abuse towards others".
Image: Jessica Mann was raped by Harvey Weinstein in a hotel in 2013
His conviction was hailed as a victory for the #MeToo movement against sexual misconduct by powerful men.
More than 100 women, including famous actresses, have accused Weinstein of sexual misconduct stretching back decades.
He has denied the allegations, saying any sex was consensual.
Once one of Hollywood's most influential figures, Weinstein won an Academy Award for producing Shakespeare In Love and was responsible for other acclaimed films including Pulp Fiction, The English Patient and Gangs Of New York.


news--2020-03-23--Coronavirus: UK's 'hospital deserts' that could be overwhelmed by cases

London has been the epicentre of the UK 's coronavirus outbreak in the early weeks of the pandemic , but so-called `` hospital deserts '' mean rural areas could soon find themselves the most overwhelmed by the disease .
Thousands of people ignored government advice to stay at home to stop the spread of COVID-19 over the weekend , instead choosing to retreat to countryside getaways including popular tourist destinations in Wales .
Such regions have been identified by Oxford University 's Leverhulme Centre for Demographic Science as potential `` hospital deserts '' , where demand for beds for coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the illness spreads .
Sky News spoke to study co-author Mark Verhagen , who warned people living in cities like London that moving to holiday destinations to escape an impending lockdown was `` probably one of the worst things you could do regarding the potential spread of the disease across the country '' .
These are areas in the UK where hospitals could easily become overwhelmed as demand for beds outstrips supply .
There are only 2.5 hospital beds per 1,000 people across the country , which is less than the US ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Germany ( 8 ) and South Korea ( 12.3 ) - but there are significant regional variations .
The charts below show that while Wales has the most beds per 1,000 people for general hospitalisation , it falls to the bottom of the list when it comes to those available for intensive care .
Capacity in Wales is at its highest in Cardiff and along the coast , which has the highest population density , but the middle rural region has an ageing population that is relatively far away from hospital and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' highlighted by the university report include Powys in Wales , while Suffolk , Rutland , Northumberland and the Isle of Wight are among those in England .
Scotland and Northern Ireland are not covered by the report .
Why are rural areas more likely to be overwhelmed ?
Mr Verhagen said the risk of hospitals coming under pressure was based on the demographic structure of the UK .
`` Demographics change spatially , different areas have older and younger populations , so we will see big differences in expected numbers of hospitalisations @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sky News .
`` These differences in demographics lead to different demands on hospital supplies . ''
Pandemic modelling suggests hospitalisation rates will be 3.5 % for people under 40 and 27.3 % for people over 80 , although there will be a bed shortage in most areas if just 2.5 % of the UK population was infected .
Assuming all beds were to be used for COVID-19 patients , the report suggests that London only has enough to support 4.7 % of its population - while Cornwall could only support 1.5 % @ @ @ @ @ @ @ populations than urban areas and they also tend to be relatively far removed from hospital locations , so there is a logistical challenge to getting people to the beds , '' said Mr Verhagen .
`` Cornwall has a relatively high amount of expected hospitalisations and is relatively far from most hospital centres .
`` The closest centre with high capacity would be Bristol , and if Bristol reached capacity then the next one afterwards would be miles away - probably London . ''
The expected number of hospitalisations per 1,000 people are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ suggesting that parts of Wales will have a rate of 10 compared to 6.2 for the capital .
How can hospitals cope if they reach capacity ?
In urban areas , patients could more easily be shifted between different hospitals to relieve pressure as demographics often vary enormously within those settings .
The report suggests London could experience fewer hospital admissions in a borough like Newham compared to somewhere like Harrow , which has an older population .
Northwick Park Hospital in Harrow declared a critical incident last week but was able to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with patients , which would be more difficult for hospitals in rural areas to do .
Mr Verhagen said : `` We really think of this as a logistical challenge - you can not do anything about somewhere like Powys being a high risk area because of the demographic that it has .
`` The emphasis should be on expanding agreements that are already in place between hospitals .
Powys , for example , has very specific agreements with councils so they can send intensive care patients to Cardiff , Swansea .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ quite flexible - exchanging patients , redeploying supplies - and these agreements will have to be front and centre in the fight . ''
What can the government do ?
Boris Johnson has urged Britons to adhere to social distancing guidelines , but his pleas have fallen on deaf ears .
The government is expected to enforce a lockdown if people continue to ignore the advice .
Mr Verhagen said a lockdown would be `` extreme but necessary '' to help give every region in the UK `` as much time as possible @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unlikely to be required until at least a week after infection .
But in the meantime , those fleeing to the countryside will only help the disease spread further .
`` The key message is to stay home and not assist the spread of the disease , and people moving to holiday houses is probably one of the worst things you could do regarding the potential spread of the disease , '' said Mr Verhagen .
`` There have been suggestions that this type of moving around in Italy , when people tried @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the north , might have helped the spread there . ''
While the coming weeks of the UK 's coronavirus outbreak is set to remain focused on London , the report warns that there will likely be a disproportionate impact on rural areas in the months ahead .

London has been the epicentre of the UK's coronavirus outbreak in the early weeks of the pandemic, but so-called "hospital deserts" mean rural areas could soon find themselves the most overwhelmed by the disease.
Thousands of people ignored government advice to stay at home to stop the spread of COVID-19 over the weekend, instead choosing to retreat to countryside getaways including popular tourist destinations in Wales.
Such regions have been identified by Oxford University's Leverhulme Centre for Demographic Science as potential "hospital deserts", where demand for beds for coronavirus patients is likely to outstrip supply as the illness spreads.
Sky News spoke to study co-author Mark Verhagen, who warned people living in cities like London that moving to holiday destinations to escape an impending lockdown was "probably one of the worst things you could do regarding the potential spread of the disease across the country".
Image: People sit on the steps of the National Gallery in Trafalgar Square
What is a 'hospital desert'?
These are areas in the UK where hospitals could easily become overwhelmed as demand for beds outstrips supply.
There are only 2.5 hospital beds per 1,000 people across the country, which is less than the US (2.8), Italy (3.2), Germany (8) and South Korea (12.3) - but there are significant regional variations.
The charts below show that while Wales has the most beds per 1,000 people for general hospitalisation, it falls to the bottom of the list when it comes to those available for intensive care.
Capacity in Wales is at its highest in Cardiff and along the coast, which has the highest population density, but the middle rural region has an ageing population that is relatively far away from hospital and critical care.
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Potential "hospital deserts" highlighted by the university report include Powys in Wales, while Suffolk, Rutland, Northumberland and the Isle of Wight are among those in England.
Scotland and Northern Ireland are not covered by the report.
Why are rural areas more likely to be overwhelmed?
Mr Verhagen said the risk of hospitals coming under pressure was based on the demographic structure of the UK.
"Demographics change spatially, different areas have older and younger populations, so we will see big differences in expected numbers of hospitalisations as coronavirus spreads," he told Sky News.
"These differences in demographics lead to different demands on hospital supplies."
Pandemic modelling suggests hospitalisation rates will be 3.5% for people under 40 and 27.3% for people over 80, although there will be a bed shortage in most areas if just 2.5% of the UK population was infected.
Assuming all beds were to be used for COVID-19 patients, the report suggests that London only has enough to support 4.7% of its population - while Cornwall could only support 1.5%.
"Rural areas generally have older populations than urban areas and they also tend to be relatively far removed from hospital locations, so there is a logistical challenge to getting people to the beds," said Mr Verhagen.
"Cornwall has a relatively high amount of expected hospitalisations and is relatively far from most hospital centres.
"The closest centre with high capacity would be Bristol, and if Bristol reached capacity then the next one afterwards would be miles away - probably London."
The expected number of hospitalisations per 1,000 people are greatest outside Greater London, with research suggesting that parts of Wales will have a rate of 10 compared to 6.2 for the capital.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:34 People crowd park despite COVID-19 warnings
How can hospitals cope if they reach capacity?
In urban areas, patients could more easily be shifted between different hospitals to relieve pressure as demographics often vary enormously within those settings.
The report suggests London could experience fewer hospital admissions in a borough like Newham compared to somewhere like Harrow, which has an older population.
Northwick Park Hospital in Harrow declared a critical incident last week but was able to contact neighbouring health facilities for help dealing with patients, which would be more difficult for hospitals in rural areas to do.
Mr Verhagen said: "We really think of this as a logistical challenge - you cannot do anything about somewhere like Powys being a high risk area because of the demographic that it has.
"The emphasis should be on expanding agreements that are already in place between hospitals. Powys, for example, has very specific agreements with councils so they can send intensive care patients to Cardiff, Swansea.
"The healthcare system in Britain is usually quite flexible - exchanging patients, redeploying supplies - and these agreements will have to be front and centre in the fight."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:08 PM: 'Don't think fresh air provides immunity'
What can the government do?
Boris Johnson has urged Britons to adhere to social distancing guidelines, but his pleas have fallen on deaf ears.
The government is expected to enforce a lockdown if people continue to ignore the advice.
Mr Verhagen said a lockdown would be "extreme but necessary" to help give every region in the UK "as much time as possible to prepare", with hospital treatment unlikely to be required until at least a week after infection.
Image: The Victoria Line was busy on Monday morning
But in the meantime, those fleeing to the countryside will only help the disease spread further.
"The key message is to stay home and not assist the spread of the disease, and people moving to holiday houses is probably one of the worst things you could do regarding the potential spread of the disease," said Mr Verhagen.
"There have been suggestions that this type of moving around in Italy, when people tried to move away from the lockdown in the north, might have helped the spread there."
While the coming weeks of the UK's coronavirus outbreak is set to remain focused on London, the report warns that there will likely be a disproportionate impact on rural areas in the months ahead.


news--2020-03-23--Coronavirus: PM sets out his back-up plan if he is diagnosed with COVID-19

Boris Johnson has lined up a senior minister to take charge of the country if he is diagnosed with COVID-19 .
The prime minister 's spokesman said Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab will step up in the event , as coronavirus cases and deaths continue to grow across the UK .
He confirmed Tuesday 's cabinet meeting will also go ahead mostly by video conference , with ministers dialling in instead of piling round a cramped table as part of social distancing measures .
Downing Street also confirmed the UK 's top civil servant in the EU trade negotiations , David @ @ @ @ @ @ @ symptoms .
But Number 10 reiterated the plan is still for talks to conclude by the end of the year , despite Brussels ' chief negotiator Michel Barnier also being in self-isolation after testing positive for the virus .
Meanwhile , Mr Johnson 's spokesman has signalled that self-employed people would get more help , after being left out of the original round of financial measures to support businesses .
`` We appreciate the difficulty they are in and officials are working round the clock , '' he told journalists at a briefing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ministers were working on measures to help the third sector .
: : Listen to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple podcasts , Google podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker And after speculation the Olympics due to take place this summer in Japan could be delayed , the UK 's sports minister called for the international organising committee to make a definitive decision soon and consider postponing the games .
It comes as the government prepares to rush through emergency legislation to tackle the coronavirus outbreak , hoping to pass a new law through @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Matt Hancock told Sky News ' Kay Burley @ Breakfast a decision on whether to further lockdown the country to stop people flouting social distancing rules would be taken `` very soon '' .
`` We will enforce and bring in further strong measures if we need to - but I 'd much rather people follow the rules themselves , it would be much more straight forward , '' he said .
`` If we need to go further in terms of people 's interactions then we will . ''

Boris Johnson has lined up a senior minister to take charge of the country if he is diagnosed with COVID-19.
The prime minister's spokesman said Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab will step up in the event, as coronavirus cases and deaths continue to grow across the UK.
He confirmed Tuesday's cabinet meeting will also go ahead mostly by video conference, with ministers dialling in instead of piling round a cramped table as part of social distancing measures.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 10:33 Health Secretary stresses 2m rule
Downing Street also confirmed the UK's top civil servant in the EU trade negotiations, David Frost, is self-isolating after showing COVID-19 symptoms.
But Number 10 reiterated the plan is still for talks to conclude by the end of the year, despite Brussels' chief negotiator Michel Barnier also being in self-isolation after testing positive for the virus.
Meanwhile, Mr Johnson's spokesman has signalled that self-employed people would get more help, after being left out of the original round of financial measures to support businesses.
"We appreciate the difficulty they are in and officials are working round the clock," he told journalists at a briefing on Monday.
Image: Dominic Raab is the foreign secretary
Charities were also assured ministers were working on measures to help the third sector.
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And after speculation the Olympics due to take place this summer in Japan could be delayed, the UK's sports minister called for the international organising committee to make a definitive decision soon and consider postponing the games.
It comes as the government prepares to rush through emergency legislation to tackle the coronavirus outbreak, hoping to pass a new law through the Commons on Monday.
Health Secretary Matt Hancock told Sky News' Kay Burley@Breakfast a decision on whether to further lockdown the country to stop people flouting social distancing rules would be taken "very soon".
"We will enforce and bring in further strong measures if we need to - but I'd much rather people follow the rules themselves, it would be much more straight forward," he said.
"If we need to go further in terms of people's interactions then we will."


news--2020-03-23--Coronavirus: Seb Corbyn, Labour leader's son, self-isolating over symptoms

Seb Corbyn - who works for shadow chancellor John McDonnell - is following the government 's advice for anyone experiencing @ @ @ @ @ said he has not recently been in direct contact with Mr McDonnell or his father @ @ @ @ @ leader .
Parliament has been put under special measures to stop the virus spreading as @ @ @ @ @ .
All tours have been cancelled and many staffers are being allowed to work remotely @ @ @ @ @ was the first MP to test positive for COVID-19 , followed by Labour backbencher Kate @ @ @ @ @ are also self-isolating after showing symptoms .
The government and many in the opposition want @ @ @ @ @ remain open as the coronavirus crisis continues so any new measures can be properly scrutinised @ @ @ @ @ hand emergency powers to ministers will be looked at by parliament on Monday , with @ @ @ @ @ them through the Commons in a single day .

Jeremy Corbyn's son is self-isolating amid the coronavirus outbreak, Sky News understands.
Seb Corbyn - who works for shadow chancellor John McDonnell - is following the government's advice for anyone experiencing symptoms of COVID-19.
Sources said he has not recently been in direct contact with Mr McDonnell or his father, the outgoing Labour Party leader.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 7:38 Lisa Cameron MP on self-isolating
Parliament has been put under special measures to stop the virus spreading as MPs continue debating and voting.
All tours have been cancelled and many staffers are being allowed to work remotely.
Health minister Nadine Dorries was the first MP to test positive for COVID-19, followed by Labour backbencher Kate Osborne, while several others are also self-isolating after showing symptoms.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 3:13 Science tells us virus fate 'is in our hands'
The government and many in the opposition want the House of Commons to remain open as the coronavirus crisis continues so any new measures can be properly scrutinised.
New laws that will hand emergency powers to ministers will be looked at by parliament on Monday, with Downing Street planning to rush them through the Commons in a single day.


news--2020-03-23--Coronavirus: Belfast hospital heroes sacrifice downtime to film 'stay at home' appeal

An appeal by frontline staff in Belfast hospitals , urging people to `` stay at home '' during the COVID-19 pandemic , has been viewed two million times .
Standing in the city 's Mater Hospital , doctors , nurses and other health professionals deliver powerful messages such as : `` This is our greatest challenge and we 're frightened . ''
They said they had sacrificed precious downtime and come into work while off duty to record the short film because `` time is of the essence '' .
Dr Suzie Guy , a consultant respiratory physician , said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ behind Italy .
We 're probably a week or so behind Spain and that 's where we 've really seen things just get overwhelmed and out of control .
`` What we 're trying to do is get the message out that we need to social distance , stay at home now , '' she added .
Ann-Marie Marley , a respiratory nurse consultant , said : `` We could n't believe the reach we got .
`` The thing that made me happiest was seeing a tweet that the streets of Belfast @ @ @ @ @ @ @ just hoping and praying that people really are listening . ''
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker For three consecutive days , doctors and nurses who should be conserving their energy , have been flooding social media with appeals for people to heed advice .
With the threat from COVID-19 escalating , they are on the frontline but eight weeks ago , Northern Ireland nurses were on the picket line , demanding equal pay .
Pat Cullen , director of the Royal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said : `` Is n't it incredible to think that two months ago , those very nurses that are working 14-hour shifts now to make sure the people of Northern Ireland are cared for were forced onto picket lines , losing days ' pay to do that ? ''
The hospital , where the video was shot will be the COVID-19 hub for Belfast , with other emergencies being diverted to the Royal Victoria Hospital nearby .
Every participant in the short film is treating patients with the virus and their message is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Not when it 's too late . ''

An appeal by frontline staff in Belfast hospitals, urging people to "stay at home" during the COVID-19 pandemic, has been viewed two million times.
Standing in the city's Mater Hospital, doctors, nurses and other health professionals deliver powerful messages such as: "This is our greatest challenge and we're frightened."
They said they had sacrificed precious downtime and come into work while off duty to record the short film because "time is of the essence".
Image: The doctors and nurses said they were facing their 'greatest challenge'. Pic: Belfast Health Trust
Dr Suzie Guy, a consultant respiratory physician, said: "We're a few weeks behind Italy. We're probably a week or so behind Spain and that's where we've really seen things just get overwhelmed and out of control.
"What we're trying to do is get the message out that we need to social distance, stay at home now," she added.
Ann-Marie Marley, a respiratory nurse consultant, said: "We couldn't believe the reach we got.
"The thing that made me happiest was seeing a tweet that the streets of Belfast are quite empty today and we're just hoping and praying that people really are listening."
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
For three consecutive days, doctors and nurses who should be conserving their energy, have been flooding social media with appeals for people to heed advice.
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With the threat from COVID-19 escalating, they are on the frontline but eight weeks ago, Northern Ireland nurses were on the picket line, demanding equal pay.
Image: Dr Suzie Guy said the country was a 'few weeks behind Italy'
Pat Cullen, director of the Royal College of Nursing in Northern Ireland, said: "Isn't it incredible to think that two months ago, those very nurses that are working 14-hour shifts now to make sure the people of Northern Ireland are cared for were forced onto picket lines, losing days' pay to do that?"
The hospital, where the video was shot will be the COVID-19 hub for Belfast, with other emergencies being diverted to the Royal Victoria Hospital nearby.
Every participant in the short film is treating patients with the virus and their message is simple: "Listen to us now. Not when it's too late."


news--2020-03-23--Coronavirus: Tom Hanks and wife Rita Wilson 'feeling better' after COVID-19 diagnosis

Tom Hanks says he and his wife Rita Wilson are `` feeling better '' after being treated for coronavirus .
The much-loved Hollywood actor confirmed that he and Wilson , both 63 , had tested positive for COVID-19 , the disease caused by the coronavirus , several weeks ago .
Hanks wrote on Twitter : `` Hey , folks .
Two weeks after our first symptoms and we feel better . ''
Both are now in self-quarantine at their home in Australia after receiving treatment at the Gold Coast University Hospital .
As well as sharing an update on their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ some advice for those in self-isolation .
He wrote : `` Sheltering in place works like this : You do n't give it to anyone -You do n't get it from anyone .
Common sense , no ?
Going to take awhile , but if we take care of each other , help where we can , and give up some comforts ... this , too , shall pass .
We can figure this out .
Hanx '' : : Listen to the Backstage podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to work on Baz Luhrmann 's Elvis Presley biopic , but filming was shut down after he and his wife were diagnosed .
Rita Wilson has also been keeping fans updated on their recovery , sharing a video of her rapping along to Hip Hop Hooray by Naughty by Nature over the weekend .
In the video , she can be seen reading the classic sci-fi novel Ender 's Game , in which mankind are facing annihilation in a futuristic world .
Actor Kevin Bacon , who starred alongside Hanks in Apollo 13 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for being so open about their diagnosis .
Bacon said speaking about it so early on `` really shows a lot of courage '' and called their action `` very generous and humane '' .
Meanwhile , Bond girl Olga Kurylenko has said she 's `` completely recovered '' from coronavirus after she revealed she had tested positive for COVID-19 last week .
The Quantum Of Solace star shared the health update on Instagram on Mother 's Day along with a photo of her sitting by the fire with her four-year-old son Alexander @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Day !
P.S .
I have completely recovered '' .
She went on to describe her symptoms over the period of her isolation : `` To recapitulate : For one week I felt pretty bad and was mostly in bed , sleeping , with high fever and strong headache .
`` Second week , the fever was gone but some light cough appeared , and I felt very tired .
By the end of the second week I felt totally fine .
Cough is almost gone although I still cough in the mornings @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the day !
I 'm fine !
`` And now I 'm just enjoying this time to reflect on many things and spend my time with my son . ''
Other stars who have tested positive for coronavirus include Idris Elba , Fiona Phillips and disgraced producer Harvey Weinstein .

Tom Hanks says he and his wife Rita Wilson are "feeling better" after being treated for coronavirus.
The much-loved Hollywood actor confirmed that he and Wilson, both 63, had tested positive for COVID-19, the disease caused by the coronavirus, several weeks ago.
Twitter Twitter , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Twitter cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Twitter cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Twitter cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
Hanks wrote on Twitter: "Hey, folks. Two weeks after our first symptoms and we feel better."
Both are now in self-quarantine at their home in Australia after receiving treatment at the Gold Coast University Hospital.
As well as sharing an update on their recovery, the two-time Oscar-winner also offered some advice for those in self-isolation.
He wrote: "Sheltering in place works like this: You don't give it to anyone -You don't get it from anyone. Common sense, no? Going to take awhile, but if we take care of each other, help where we can, and give up some comforts...this, too, shall pass. We can figure this out. Hanx"
:: Listen to the Backstage podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
Hanks had been in Australia to work on Baz Luhrmann's Elvis Presley biopic, but filming was shut down after he and his wife were diagnosed.
Rita Wilson has also been keeping fans updated on their recovery, sharing a video of her rapping along to Hip Hop Hooray by Naughty by Nature over the weekend.
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In the video, she can be seen reading the classic sci-fi novel Ender's Game, in which mankind are facing annihilation in a futuristic world.
Wilson captured her video: "Quarantine stir crazy".
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Actor Kevin Bacon, who starred alongside Hanks in Apollo 13, has praised both Tom and Rita for being so open about their diagnosis.
Bacon said speaking about it so early on "really shows a lot of courage" and called their action "very generous and humane".
Meanwhile, Bond girl Olga Kurylenko has said she's "completely recovered" from coronavirus after she revealed she had tested positive for COVID-19 last week.
The Quantum Of Solace star shared the health update on Instagram on Mother's Day along with a photo of her sitting by the fire with her four-year-old son Alexander, writing: "Happy Mother's Day! P.S. I have completely recovered".
Instagram Instagram , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Instagram cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Instagram cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Instagram cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
She went on to describe her symptoms over the period of her isolation: "To recapitulate: For one week I felt pretty bad and was mostly in bed, sleeping, with high fever and strong headache.
"Second week, the fever was gone but some light cough appeared, and I felt very tired. By the end of the second week I felt totally fine. Cough is almost gone although I still cough in the mornings but then it completely goes away for the day! I'm fine!
"And now I'm just enjoying this time to reflect on many things and spend my time with my son."
Other stars who have tested positive for coronavirus include Idris Elba, Fiona Phillips and disgraced producer Harvey Weinstein.


news--2020-03-23--Coronavirus: Police to hand out fines and most shops to shut as PM locks down UK

Boris Johnson has stunned millions of Britons with a momentous and tough lockdown announcement to tackle coronavirus , warning people to stay at home or face a fine .
In a dramatic and historic TV address to the nation , the prime minister said all shops apart from food stores and chemists must close immediately , meeting friends will be banned - and just one form of exercise a day will be allowed .
The COVID-19 lockdown , which will be in force for at least three weeks , follows growing pressure in recent days from the government 's top @ @ @ @ @ @ @ powers not seen since wartime , Mr Johnson declared : `` From this evening I must give the British people a very simple instruction - you must stay at home .
`` Because the critical thing we must do is stop the disease spreading between households . ''
People will only be allowed to leave their home for `` very limited '' purposes : • Shopping for basic necessities , as infrequently as possible • One form of exercise a day - for example a run , walk , or cycle - alone @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Any medical need , to provide care or to help a vulnerable person • Travelling to and from work , but only where this is absolutely necessary and can not be done from home He added : `` That 's all - these are the only reasons you should leave your home .
`` You should not be meeting friends .
If your friends ask you to meet , you should say no .
`` You should not be meeting family members who do not live in your home .
`` You should @ @ @ @ @ @ @ like food and medicine - and you should do this as little as you can .
And use food delivery services where you can .
`` If you do n't follow the rules the police will have the powers to enforce them , including through fines and dispersing gatherings . ''
Mr Johnson added that these measures will come into force immediately : • Closing all shops selling non-essential goods ,  including clothing and electronic stores and other premises including libraries , playgrounds and outdoor gyms , and places of worship • @ @ @ @ @ @ @ breakfasts , campsites , caravan parks , and boarding houses for commercial/leisure use ( excluding permanent residents and key workers ) • Stopping all gatherings of more than two people in public - excluding people you live with • Stopping all social events , including weddings , baptisms and other ceremonies , but excluding funerals : : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker '' Parks will remain open for exercise but gatherings will be dispersed , '' he continued .
Explaining why he has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said : `` Without a huge national effort to halt the growth of this virus , there will come a moment when no health service in the world could possibly cope ; because there wo n't be enough ventilators , enough intensive care beds , enough doctors and nurses .
`` And as we have seen elsewhere , in other countries that also have fantastic healthcare systems , that is the moment of real danger .
`` To put it simply , if too many people become seriously unwell at one time , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it - meaning more people are likely to die , not just from coronavirus but from other illnesses as well .
`` So it 's vital to slow the spread of the disease .
`` Because that is the way we reduce the number of people needing hospital treatment at any one time , so we can protect the NHS 's ability to cope - and save more lives .
`` And that 's why we have been asking people to stay at home during this pandemic .
`` And though huge numbers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all - the time has now come for us all to do more . ''
Mr Johnson , who has previously attacked the so-called `` nanny state '' , acknowledged : `` No prime minister wants to enact measures like this .
`` I know the damage that this disruption is doing and will do to people 's lives , to their businesses and to their jobs .
`` I can assure you that we will keep these restrictions under constant review .
We will look again in three weeks , and relax @ @ @ @ @ @ @ able to .
`` But at present there are just no easy options .
The way ahead is hard , and it is still true that many lives will sadly be lost .
`` And yet it is also true that there is a clear way through .
`` Day by day we are strengthening our amazing NHS with 7,500 former clinicians now coming back to the service .
`` With the time you buy - by simply staying at home - we are increasing our stocks of equipment , we are accelerating @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pioneering work on a vaccine , and we are buying millions of testing kits that will enable us to turn the tide on this invisible killer . ''
And he concluded : `` I want to thank everyone who is working flat out to beat the virus .
Everyone from the supermarket staff to the transport workers to the carers to the nurses and doctors on the frontline .
`` But in this fight we can be in no doubt that each and every one of us is directly enlisted .
Each and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to join together to halt the spread of this disease and to protect our NHS and to save many many thousands of lives . ''
The PM 's dramatic announcement came as the number of coronavirus cases in the UK rose to 6,650 in the latest 24 hours , with the number of deaths from the disease up by 55 to 336 .
It also follows a sunshine-bathed weekend in which thousands of people ignored official warnings to stay at home and Mr Johnson vowed to consider tougher action within 24 hours .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ a top level COBRA meeting of senior ministers , medical advisers and scientists - conducted via video conference to avoid risk - as he addressed TV viewers directly from inside 10 Downing Street .
Meanwhile , MPs rushed emergency legislation through the Commons in a single day , giving the government sweeping powers which could be on the statute book for two years .
The emergency legislation includes powers to shut airports and allow police to force people with virus symptoms to isolate , with the threat of £1,000 fines for those who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Having completed its passage through the Commons , the Bill will be debated in the House of Lords on Tuesday and Wednesday and the Government hopes there will be no Lords amendments so it can receive royal assent and become law by Thursday .
Earlier Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab advised all British travellers to return to the UK now , before airline routes , land borders and other restrictions make it impossible .
He said : `` Around the world , more airlines are suspending flights and more airports are closing , some @ @ @ @ @ @ @ routes do n't exist , our staff are working round the clock to give advice and support to UK nationals .
If you are on holiday abroad the time to come home is now while you still can . ''

Boris Johnson has stunned millions of Britons with a momentous and tough lockdown announcement to tackle coronavirus, warning people to stay at home or face a fine.
In a dramatic and historic TV address to the nation, the prime minister said all shops apart from food stores and chemists must close immediately, meeting friends will be banned - and just one form of exercise a day will be allowed.
The COVID-19 lockdown, which will be in force for at least three weeks, follows growing pressure in recent days from the government's top medical advisers and senior politicians.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:56 Social distancing puts UK to the test
Announcing powers not seen since wartime, Mr Johnson declared: "From this evening I must give the British people a very simple instruction - you must stay at home.
"Because the critical thing we must do is stop the disease spreading between households."
People will only be allowed to leave their home for "very limited" purposes:
Shopping for basic necessities, as infrequently as possible
One form of exercise a day - for example a run, walk, or cycle - alone or with members of your household
Any medical need, to provide care or to help a vulnerable person
Travelling to and from work, but only where this is absolutely necessary and cannot be done from home
He added: "That's all - these are the only reasons you should leave your home.
"You should not be meeting friends. If your friends ask you to meet, you should say no.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:00 How to practise social distancing
"You should not be meeting family members who do not live in your home.
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"You should not be going shopping except for essentials like food and medicine - and you should do this as little as you can. And use food delivery services where you can.
"If you don't follow the rules the police will have the powers to enforce them, including through fines and dispersing gatherings."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:41 Coronavirus advice aired in TV adverts
Mr Johnson added that these measures will come into force immediately:
Closing all shops selling non-essential goods, including clothing and electronic stores and other premises including libraries, playgrounds and outdoor gyms, and places of worship
Closing hotels, hostels, bed and breakfasts, campsites, caravan parks, and boarding houses for commercial/leisure use (excluding permanent residents and key workers)
Stopping all gatherings of more than two people in public - excluding people you live with
Stopping all social events, including weddings, baptisms and other ceremonies, but excluding funerals
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
"Parks will remain open for exercise but gatherings will be dispersed," he continued.
Explaining why he has taken such strong action, Mr Johnson said: "Without a huge national effort to halt the growth of this virus, there will come a moment when no health service in the world could possibly cope; because there won't be enough ventilators, enough intensive care beds, enough doctors and nurses.
"And as we have seen elsewhere, in other countries that also have fantastic healthcare systems, that is the moment of real danger.
"To put it simply, if too many people become seriously unwell at one time, the NHS will be unable to handle it - meaning more people are likely to die, not just from coronavirus but from other illnesses as well.
"So it's vital to slow the spread of the disease.
"Because that is the way we reduce the number of people needing hospital treatment at any one time, so we can protect the NHS's ability to cope - and save more lives.
"And that's why we have been asking people to stay at home during this pandemic.
"And though huge numbers are complying - and I thank you all - the time has now come for us all to do more."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 4:16 The misinformation outbreak
Mr Johnson, who has previously attacked the so-called "nanny state", acknowledged: "No prime minister wants to enact measures like this.
"I know the damage that this disruption is doing and will do to people's lives, to their businesses and to their jobs.
"I can assure you that we will keep these restrictions under constant review. We will look again in three weeks, and relax them if the evidence shows we are able to.
"But at present there are just no easy options. The way ahead is hard, and it is still true that many lives will sadly be lost.
"And yet it is also true that there is a clear way through.
"Day by day we are strengthening our amazing NHS with 7,500 former clinicians now coming back to the service.
"With the time you buy - by simply staying at home - we are increasing our stocks of equipment, we are accelerating our search for treatments, we are pioneering work on a vaccine, and we are buying millions of testing kits that will enable us to turn the tide on this invisible killer."
And he concluded: "I want to thank everyone who is working flat out to beat the virus. Everyone from the supermarket staff to the transport workers to the carers to the nurses and doctors on the frontline.
"But in this fight we can be in no doubt that each and every one of us is directly enlisted. Each and every one of us is now obliged to join together to halt the spread of this disease and to protect our NHS and to save many many thousands of lives."
The PM's dramatic announcement came as the number of coronavirus cases in the UK rose to 6,650 in the latest 24 hours, with the number of deaths from the disease up by 55 to 336.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:07 'I never imagined I could have been so sick'
It also follows a sunshine-bathed weekend in which thousands of people ignored official warnings to stay at home and Mr Johnson vowed to consider tougher action within 24 hours.
He carried out his threat after chairing a top level COBRA meeting of senior ministers, medical advisers and scientists - conducted via video conference to avoid risk - as he addressed TV viewers directly from inside 10 Downing Street.
Meanwhile, MPs rushed emergency legislation through the Commons in a single day, giving the government sweeping powers which could be on the statute book for two years.
The emergency legislation includes powers to shut airports and allow police to force people with virus symptoms to isolate, with the threat of £1,000 fines for those who refuse to take a coronavirus test.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:45 Kids in quarantine get their exercise
Having completed its passage through the Commons, the Bill will be debated in the House of Lords on Tuesday and Wednesday and the Government hopes there will be no Lords amendments so it can receive royal assent and become law by Thursday.
Earlier Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab advised all British travellers to return to the UK now, before airline routes, land borders and other restrictions make it impossible.
He said: "Around the world, more airlines are suspending flights and more airports are closing, some without any notice.
"Where commercial routes don't exist, our staff are working round the clock to give advice and support to UK nationals. If you are on holiday abroad the time to come home is now while you still can."


news--2020-03-23--Coronavirus: Sunny spells predicted as Boris Johnson urges people to stay indoors to curb virus spre

Coronavirus: Sunny spells predicted as Boris Johnson urges people to stay indoors to curb virus spread

The weather is set to be warmer this week as the government battles to keep people indoors to curb coronavirus .
Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced strict social distancing measures last Monday , banning anyone who is vulnerable or elderly to stay at home and self-isolate for 12 weeks .
After Britons repeatedly flouted the advice to stop socialising and stay away from crowded areas , the PM ordered restaurants , bars , pubs and clubs to close on Friday to combat the spread of COVID-19 , a strand of coronavirus .
Over the weekend , political leaders criticised those @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as Snowdonia in Wales and Richmond Park in west London , and did not abide by the two metres apart rule .
Representatives for the parks are now threatening to close the public spaces , and Mr Johnson has warned further measures could be taken to prevent people from socialising .
The weather is due to improve in southern parts of the UK this week , with temperatures reaching 18C ( 64.4F ) .
According to the Met Office , Monday and Tuesday will be largely dry and bright , with the sunniest @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The northeast will see some rain on Wednesday , which will move southeastwards across the north through Thursday , with colder , showery weather following .
The rest of UK will be dry and mostly sunny with some mild days and frosty nights .
Northern and northwestern Scotland meanwhile will see some clouds , wind and rain on Monday and Tuesday , however this will improve later on in the week .
Sky News weather presenter Jo Edwards said : `` Whilst much of the UK mainland will see some lovely sunshine today @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will stall and become slow moving .
`` The rain may be heavy at times , and there 'll be some coastal gales .
But it 's the fact that the rain belt is not going to move very far until Wednesday that means that the Hebrides and Highlands may see up to 150mm of accumulated rainfall . ''
She added a chilly east wind will swing round to the south , making temperatures a lot milder .
`` They will reach 17C or 18C in some parts - that 's a very @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will feel very pleasant indeed , '' she said .
`` But do n't rush to switch the heating off - there 'll be patchy overnight frosts throughout the week , and as the rain belt clears south and dies away on Friday it 'll become cold again , with wintry showers even to low levels . ''
At a press conference in St Andrew 's House in Edinburgh on Sunday , Scotland 's First Minister Nicola Sturgeon criticised people who ventured out to pubs and bars over the weekend .
She said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the advice should not be considered optional , it should be seen instead as a set of rules to be followed . ''
After a spike in visitors to Snowdonia - which chief executive Emyr Williams said was the `` busiest day in history - First Minister of Wales Mark Drakeford hit back on tourists flocking to the national park .
He said in a statement : `` Self-isolation for those who have symptoms and social distancing by everyone is absolutely essential at this stage if we are to delay the spread of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We all need to follow this advice now to protect each other and our families and to help ensure our NHS is not overwhelmed .
`` Social distancing includes avoiding all but essential travel and if people do n't follow this advice we will have no choice but to use powers to enforce it . ''
In the capital , west London borough Hammersmith and Fulham announced it had closed all of its parks .
Meanwhile Royal Parks , the charity which looks after London 's major parks including Hyde Park and Richmond @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Richmond , Bushy and Greenwich Parks after dozens of people flocked to the open spaces over the weekend .
The playgrounds , cafes and kiosks have also been closed until further notice .
Cyclists are still welcome but must not travel in groups and should stay two metres apart .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker A statement from the charity said the measures were taken after people `` ignored '' the government 's advice on social distancing - and threatened to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ people did not comply with the rules .
`` We hope that by closing these parks to cars we will help mitigate this situation , '' it said .
`` We understand the important of being able to continue cycling in our parks for both physical and mental wellbeing , but if cyclists do not adhere to these guidelines , we will have no choice but to close the parks . ''

The weather is set to be warmer this week as the government battles to keep people indoors to curb coronavirus.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced strict social distancing measures last Monday, banning anyone who is vulnerable or elderly to stay at home and self-isolate for 12 weeks.
After Britons repeatedly flouted the advice to stop socialising and stay away from crowded areas, the PM ordered restaurants, bars, pubs and clubs to close on Friday to combat the spread of COVID-19, a strand of coronavirus.
Over the weekend, political leaders criticised those who flocked to public parks, such as Snowdonia in Wales and Richmond Park in west London, and did not abide by the two metres apart rule.
Image: Many parks could close to force people to stay indoors
Representatives for the parks are now threatening to close the public spaces, and Mr Johnson has warned further measures could be taken to prevent people from socialising.
The weather is due to improve in southern parts of the UK this week, with temperatures reaching 18C (64.4F).
According to the Met Office, Monday and Tuesday will be largely dry and bright, with the sunniest days in particular for the southeast.
The northeast will see some rain on Wednesday, which will move southeastwards across the north through Thursday, with colder, showery weather following.
The rest of UK will be dry and mostly sunny with some mild days and frosty nights.
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Northern and northwestern Scotland meanwhile will see some clouds, wind and rain on Monday and Tuesday, however this will improve later on in the week.
Sky News weather presenter Jo Edwards said: "Whilst much of the UK mainland will see some lovely sunshine today, the rain over the far north-west will stall and become slow moving.
"The rain may be heavy at times, and there'll be some coastal gales. But it's the fact that the rain belt is not going to move very far until Wednesday that means that the Hebrides and Highlands may see up to 150mm of accumulated rainfall."
She added a chilly east wind will swing round to the south, making temperatures a lot milder.
"They will reach 17C or 18C in some parts - that's a very springlike 64F. In sheltered spots that will feel very pleasant indeed," she said.
"But don't rush to switch the heating off - there'll be patchy overnight frosts throughout the week, and as the rain belt clears south and dies away on Friday it'll become cold again, with wintry showers even to low levels."
At a press conference in St Andrew's House in Edinburgh on Sunday, Scotland's First Minister Nicola Sturgeon criticised people who ventured out to pubs and bars over the weekend.
She said: "Let me be clear, the advice should not be considered optional, it should be seen instead as a set of rules to be followed."
After a spike in visitors to Snowdonia - which chief executive Emyr Williams said was the "busiest day in history - First Minister of Wales Mark Drakeford hit back on tourists flocking to the national park.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:34 People crowd park despite COVID-19 warnings
He said in a statement: "Self-isolation for those who have symptoms and social distancing by everyone is absolutely essential at this stage if we are to delay the spread of this virus and save lives.
"We all need to follow this advice now to protect each other and our families and to help ensure our NHS is not overwhelmed.
"Social distancing includes avoiding all but essential travel and if people don't follow this advice we will have no choice but to use powers to enforce it."
In the capital, west London borough Hammersmith and Fulham announced it had closed all of its parks.
Meanwhile Royal Parks, the charity which looks after London's major parks including Hyde Park and Richmond Park, temporarily banned cars from entering Richmond, Bushy and Greenwich Parks after dozens of people flocked to the open spaces over the weekend.
The playgrounds, cafes and kiosks have also been closed until further notice.
Cyclists are still welcome but must not travel in groups and should stay two metres apart.
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A statement from the charity said the measures were taken after people "ignored" the government's advice on social distancing - and threatened to close all parks in the future if people did not comply with the rules.
"We hope that by closing these parks to cars we will help mitigate this situation," it said.
"We understand the important of being able to continue cycling in our parks for both physical and mental wellbeing, but if cyclists do not adhere to these guidelines, we will have no choice but to close the parks."


news--2020-03-23--Coronavirus: Animal charities issue warning after rise in enquiries to adopt pets

People are looking to pets to provide company , while they are unable to see friends and family due to social distancing measures .
Animal shelters say there has been a noticeable rise in the number of people looking to foster or rehome a pet during the coronavirus outbreak .
Centres run by Battersea Cats and Dogs Home and The Dogs Trust have been closed to the public because of COVID-19 , but people are still able to enquire online and visit by appointment .
Battersea Cats and Dog Home say it has experienced an `` increased interest in rehoming @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Over the last week we have rehomed nearly 100 animals , with 26 animals rehomed across our three centres on Thursday alone , '' the organisation said .
`` We are striving to arrange the collection of dogs and cats that are currently on reserve , so there may be some delay in responding to new enquiries .
`` But we urge anyone looking to bring a little joy in to their lives during these uncertain times to make an appointment at one of our centres as soon as they are able .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ an increase in offers to foster an animal , but said it has suspended new applications in order to prioritise working with existing staff and volunteers .
The Dogs Trust said it has received `` an overwhelming number of enquiries ... not only to rehome dogs permanently but also to foster our dogs on a temporary basis '' .
However , it said it was important people thought carefully about the decision before taking home a new pet .
`` Dog ownership is a wonderful thing but it is a lifelong commitment which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trust said .
`` As our saying goes , ' a dog is for life ' and , in this case , not just for self-isolation .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker '' We really need people to think about what might happen the other side of this outbreak when people are hopefully back to their usual routines and have other commitments .
`` If someone is n't sure about whether now is the right time to welcome a four-legged friend @ @ @ @ @ @ @ encourage them to support rescue dogs in other ways , such as sponsoring one of our beautiful dogs . ''
The RSPCA also said it had received an increase in the number of people looking to foster an animal .
However , it encouraged people who were considering it to also consider donating to the charity , `` so we can continue rescuing animals during this difficult time '' .

People are looking to pets to provide company, while they are unable to see friends and family due to social distancing measures.
Animal shelters say there has been a noticeable rise in the number of people looking to foster or rehome a pet during the coronavirus outbreak.
Centres run by Battersea Cats and Dogs Home and The Dogs Trust have been closed to the public because of COVID-19, but people are still able to enquire online and visit by appointment.
Image: A woman wears a protective mask as she walks her dog in Wuhan in January.
Battersea Cats and Dog Home say it has experienced an "increased interest in rehoming" because of the disease.
"Over the last week we have rehomed nearly 100 animals, with 26 animals rehomed across our three centres on Thursday alone," the organisation said.
"We are striving to arrange the collection of dogs and cats that are currently on reserve, so there may be some delay in responding to new enquiries.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:34 People crowd park despite COVID-19 warnings
"But we urge anyone looking to bring a little joy in to their lives during these uncertain times to make an appointment at one of our centres as soon as they are able."
The animal shelter has also received an increase in offers to foster an animal, but said it has suspended new applications in order to prioritise working with existing staff and volunteers.
The Dogs Trust said it has received "an overwhelming number of enquiries... not only to rehome dogs permanently but also to foster our dogs on a temporary basis".
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However, it said it was important people thought carefully about the decision before taking home a new pet.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:07 'Stay at home': Drone enforces COVID-19 lockdown
"Dog ownership is a wonderful thing but it is a lifelong commitment which must be carefully considered," the trust said.
"As our saying goes, 'a dog is for life' and, in this case, not just for self-isolation.
Podcast Podcast , which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enable Podcast cookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the This content is provided by, which may be using cookies and other technologies. To show you this content, we need your permission to use cookies. You can use the buttons below to amend your preferences to enablecookies or to allow those cookies just once. You can change your settings at any time via the Privacy Options Unfortunately we have been unable to verify if you have consented to Podcast cookies. To view this content you can use the button below to allow Podcast cookies for this session only. Enable Cookies Allow Cookies Once
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"We really need people to think about what might happen the other side of this outbreak when people are hopefully back to their usual routines and have other commitments.
"If someone isn't sure about whether now is the right time to welcome a four-legged friend into their home permanently, we would encourage them to support rescue dogs in other ways, such as sponsoring one of our beautiful dogs."
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 0:54 Health Secretary stresses 2m rule
The RSPCA also said it had received an increase in the number of people looking to foster an animal.
However, it encouraged people who were considering it to also consider donating to the charity, "so we can continue rescuing animals during this difficult time".


news--2020-03-23--Coronavirus: Rail franchise agreements suspended to avoid company collapses

The government has brought in emergency measures to provide refunds to ticket holders and prevent rail companies from collapsing due to the coronavirus pandemic .
The Department for Transport said it will suspend normal rail franchise agreements and take over all the risks as well as revenues for operating trains for at least six months .
Restrictions placed around travel over the COVID-19 outbreak has seen a sharp fall in demand for rail companies , leaving operators facing significant drops in their income The government has also said anyone holding an advance ticket will be able to obtain a refund @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will also be able to claim refunds on the portion of time still unused through their rail operators .
The transport department said it will continue to run trains on low frequency to allow key workers to commute to work but reiterated government advice for the general public to stay at home and avoid the spread of coronavirus .
Secretary of State for Transport Grant Shapps said : `` We are taking this action to protect the key workers who depend on our railways to carry on their vital roles , the hardworking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to combat the spread of coronavirus , and the frontline rail staff who are keeping the country moving .
`` We are also helping passengers get refunds on advance tickets to ensure no-one is unfairly out of pocket for doing the right thing .
: : Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker .
The railways have already seen up to a 70 % drop in passenger numbers as an increasing number of people work from home and adopt social distancing .
However , other @ @ @ @ @ @ @ - are not seeing a decline as people use packed services to get to work .
The government said operators will continue to run day-to-day services for a maximum of 2 % of the cost base of the franchise but warned that it will be far less than their recent profits .
Mr Shapps added : `` These offers will give operators the confidence and certainty so they can play their part in the national interest . ''
It also said that in case operators choose not to take part in its `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's Operator of Last Resort will take over the franchise .
The government is concerned that if operators were allowed to go bankrupt , it would cause significantly more disruption to passengers and higher costs to the taxpayer in the future .
Paul Plummer , chief executive of the Rail Delivery Group , which represents train operators and Network Rail , said : `` The industry strongly welcomes the Department for Transport 's offer of temporary support and while we need to finalise the details , this will ensure that train companies can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ vital service at a time of national need .
`` The rail industry is working together so that people and goods can keep making essential journeys during this unprecedented national challenge , getting key workers to hospitals , food to shops and fuel to power stations . ''
First Group , which runs Great Western Railway , South Western Railway , TransPennine Express and Avanti West Coast said it welcomed the emergency measures taken by the government .
: : Listen to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple podcasts , Google podcasts , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Matthew Gregory said : `` We welcome and have accepted the UK government 's swift and comprehensive offer of emergency measures which provides certainty for all of the group 's franchises and the continuity of our vital rail networks during this time .
`` The health and safety of our people , our passengers and their communities is our top priority and across all of our businesses we are working hard to support the response to the growing pandemic , and closely following all government and health authority guidance . ''
Go Ahead @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Govia Thameslink Railway as well as regional bus services said it was in discussion with the government over `` financial and contractual support . ''
The company also said it was providing bus services to Transport for London ( TfL ) without any profit or loss to itself .
It said in a statement : `` We have reached agreement with TfL that revenue will continue to be paid as contracted with variable cost savings being returned to TfL i.e .
operating on a 'no net loss , no net gain ' basis @ @

The government has brought in emergency measures to provide refunds to ticket holders and prevent rail companies from collapsing due to the coronavirus pandemic.
The Department for Transport said it will suspend normal rail franchise agreements and take over all the risks as well as revenues for operating trains for at least six months.
Restrictions placed around travel over the COVID-19 outbreak has seen a sharp fall in demand for rail companies, leaving operators facing significant drops in their income
The government has also said anyone holding an advance ticket will be able to obtain a refund free of charge.
Season ticket holders will also be able to claim refunds on the portion of time still unused through their rail operators.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 2:08 How will economy will cope with coronavirus?
The transport department said it will continue to run trains on low frequency to allow key workers to commute to work but reiterated government advice for the general public to stay at home and avoid the spread of coronavirus.
Secretary of State for Transport Grant Shapps said: "We are taking this action to protect the key workers who depend on our railways to carry on their vital roles, the hardworking commuters who have radically altered their lives to combat the spread of coronavirus, and the frontline rail staff who are keeping the country moving.
"We are also helping passengers get refunds on advance tickets to ensure no-one is unfairly out of pocket for doing the right thing.
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker.
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The railways have already seen up to a 70% drop in passenger numbers as an increasing number of people work from home and adopt social distancing.
However, other services - including the Tube in London - are not seeing a decline as people use packed services to get to work.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 3:10 Politicians plead as rural villages are overrun by city dwellers
The government said operators will continue to run day-to-day services for a maximum of 2% of the cost base of the franchise but warned that it will be far less than their recent profits.
Mr Shapps added: "These offers will give operators the confidence and certainty so they can play their part in the national interest."
It also said that in case operators choose not to take part in its "Emergency Measures Agreement", the government's Operator of Last Resort will take over the franchise.
The government is concerned that if operators were allowed to go bankrupt, it would cause significantly more disruption to passengers and higher costs to the taxpayer in the future.
Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player 1:55 An in-depth look at UK coronavirus deaths
Paul Plummer, chief executive of the Rail Delivery Group, which represents train operators and Network Rail, said: "The industry strongly welcomes the Department for Transport's offer of temporary support and while we need to finalise the details, this will ensure that train companies can focus all their efforts on delivering a vital service at a time of national need.
"The rail industry is working together so that people and goods can keep making essential journeys during this unprecedented national challenge, getting key workers to hospitals, food to shops and fuel to power stations."
First Group, which runs Great Western Railway, South Western Railway, TransPennine Express and Avanti West Coast said it welcomed the emergency measures taken by the government.
:: Listen to Sophy Ridge on Sunday on Apple podcasts, Google podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker
It's chief executive Matthew Gregory said: "We welcome and have accepted the UK government's swift and comprehensive offer of emergency measures which provides certainty for all of the group's franchises and the continuity of our vital rail networks during this time.
"The health and safety of our people, our passengers and their communities is our top priority and across all of our businesses we are working hard to support the response to the growing pandemic, and closely following all government and health authority guidance."
Go Ahead Group, which runs the Southeastern and Govia Thameslink Railway as well as regional bus services said it was in discussion with the government over "financial and contractual support."
The company also said it was providing bus services to Transport for London (TfL) without any profit or loss to itself.
It said in a statement: "We have reached agreement with TfL that revenue will continue to be paid as contracted with variable cost savings being returned to TfL i.e. operating on a 'no net loss, no net gain' basis."


news--2020-03-23--Coronavirus: Family's warning after 'kind, loving' father dies alone in hospital

In the official numbers of people who have died from the coronavirus , Birnham Roberts counts among those who were elderly with underlying health conditions .
But his family remember the 82-year-old retired bus driver as larger than life , an active father and grandfather who was known to everyone in his community in Birmingham as the driver of the number 16 bus .
`` He was a really friendly guy , really outgoing , a kind and loving father , '' his daughter Cherelle , 32 , told Sky News .
She was speaking from the doorway of her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to self-isolate following her father 's diagnosis .
His illness came as a shock to the family .
He had diabetes but was otherwise fit and well - and he still went to the gym and swam regularly .
`` He was just sounding a bit confused , '' Cherelle , who is a nurse , recalls .
`` That sparked us to take him to the hospital because we did query that he 'd had a stroke and then once he 'd got into hospital they said he had pneumonia and then @ @ @ @ @ @ @ diagnosed him , so his breathing and stuff had changed . ''
Because she works on the frontline of the NHS , she knew protocol would mean she could n't stay with her father .
The last time she saw him was the day he tested positive at City Hospital .
`` They moved him into a bay with a load of other patients that were positive as well , '' she says .
`` After that , they shut down the hospital so we were unable to visit . ''
: : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify , Spreaker .
It meant that a man who had lived his life for his family died alone .
`` It was very difficult , just not wanting him to be on his own , definitely very upsetting that we were n't there with him at his last moments , '' Cherelle says .
Days on from their father 's death , Cherelle and her brother Shaun are still unable to plan a funeral to say goodbye to their father .
She said : `` We ca @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sure of how things will go from now .
`` Are they allowed to release the body ?
Is he still going to be infected ?
So he 's just sitting in the morgue at present and we ca n't lay him to rest . ''
Since being in isolation , Cherelle has n't developed any symptoms and has just been given the all clear to return to work .
She knows she will inevitably be having to treat other patients with COVID-19 and has this warning for the public : `` Everyone @ @ @ @ @ @ @ distancing .
I do n't want it to happen to anybody else . ''

In the official numbers of people who have died from the coronavirus, Birnham Roberts counts among those who were elderly with underlying health conditions.
But his family remember the 82-year-old retired bus driver as larger than life, an active father and grandfather who was known to everyone in his community in Birmingham as the driver of the number 16 bus.
"He was a really friendly guy, really outgoing, a kind and loving father," his daughter Cherelle, 32, told Sky News.
Image: Mr Roberts, 82, had diabetes but still went to the gym and swam
She was speaking from the doorway of her home in Quinton as she was forced to self-isolate following her father's diagnosis.
His illness came as a shock to the family. He had diabetes but was otherwise fit and well - and he still went to the gym and swam regularly.
Image: His son and daughter say they were unable to visit him in hospital and now they can't plan the funeral
"He was just sounding a bit confused," Cherelle, who is a nurse, recalls.
"That sparked us to take him to the hospital because we did query that he'd had a stroke and then once he'd got into hospital they said he had pneumonia and then you could see the symptoms after they diagnosed him, so his breathing and stuff had changed."
Image: Mr Roberts with his son
Because she works on the frontline of the NHS, she knew protocol would mean she couldn't stay with her father.
The last time she saw him was the day he tested positive at City Hospital.
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"They moved him into a bay with a load of other patients that were positive as well," she says. "After that, they shut down the hospital so we were unable to visit."
:: Listen to the Daily podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Spreaker.
It meant that a man who had lived his life for his family died alone.
"It was very difficult, just not wanting him to be on his own, definitely very upsetting that we weren't there with him at his last moments," Cherelle says.
Days on from their father's death, Cherelle and her brother Shaun are still unable to plan a funeral to say goodbye to their father.
She said: "We can't do anything because nobody's really sure of how things will go from now.
"Are they allowed to release the body? Is he still going to be infected? So he's just sitting in the morgue at present and we can't lay him to rest."
Since being in isolation, Cherelle hasn't developed any symptoms and has just been given the all clear to return to work.
She knows she will inevitably be having to treat other patients with COVID-19 and has this warning for the public: "Everyone has to keep themselves safe, social distancing. I don't want it to happen to anybody else."