Luton & Dunstable Hospital 'working tirelessly' over coronavirus threat

So far, three people in Luton and four in Central Bedfordshire have been diagnosed with the disease and numbers are set to increase.

An isolation ward is understood to have been set up to treat people with flu-like symptoms while they await test results.

A Luton & Dunstable Hospital spokesman said: "As the chief medical officer has warned, NHS services will come under pressure as the outbreak spreads more widely and we are preparing a number of practical solutions in response.

"Our staff are working tirelessly so we can manage the COVID19 outbreak as it evolves over the coming weeks and months.

"Outpatient appointments are going ahead as normal at the moment so we are asking patients to please attend unless they hear from us.

"The public can play their part by not going to a pharmacy, GP surgery or hospital if they develop a high temperature or a new continuous cough, and instead stay at home for seven days

"It is essential that everyone protects themselves and others, and in doing so protects the NHS, so that we can treat those people that urgently need our care."

NHS advise the following to avoid catching or spreading coronavirus:

> Wash your hands with soap and water often and for at least 20 seconds.

> Always wash your hands when you get home or into work.

> Use hand sanitiser gel if soap and water are not available.

> Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when you cough or sneeze.

> Put used tissues in the bin straight away and wash your hands afterwards.

> Try to avoid close contact with people who are unwell

> Don’t touch your eyes, nose or mouth if your hands are not clean.