First person in Kirklees 'presumed positive' for coronavirus as Yorkshire total rises to 14

Kirklees Council said it is working closely with Public Health England to 'minimise risk to the public' after the 'presumed positive case' of the virus was found.

The new case brings the total number of coronavirus patients in Yorkshire up to 14, as of 9am today (Tuesday).

Public Health England confirmed that one person has tested positive for coronavirus in Rotherham since 9am on Monday.

Five cases have been confirmed in Leeds, three in York, two in Barnsley and one case each in Bradford and Hull.

Rachel Spencer-Henshall, Director for Public Health in Kirklees, said: “We have had our first case of novel coronavirus in Kirklees, something we have been anticipating and preparing for.

“Our thoughts are with the person and we wish them the very best in their recovery. I’d like to reassure residents that we are continuing to work closely with colleagues in the health service to stop the virus spreading.

“Specialists at PHE are taking swift action to follow up with the contacts of all confirmed cases, ensuring they receive the correct medical advice and guidance.

“In the meantime, good hygiene is the very best prevention, and there are some simple steps we can all take to protect ourselves, our families and communities.

“This includes washing hands regularly for a minimum of 20 seconds, and following NHS advice in relation to coughs and colds – catch the sneeze in a tissue, bin it…and kill the germs.”