THE first case of coronavirus has been confirmed in Cornwall.

Cornwall Council has issued some advice following a confirmed case of coronavirus in the county, although ’risk to the general public remains low’.

The local authority has said it is working with health colleagues to prevent the virus spreading, and is urging the people of Cornwall to follow existing hygiene advice.

Steve Brown, Cornwall Council’s deputy director of public health, said: "I’d like to reassure people that the risk to the general public remains low and Cornwall Council is working with health colleagues to do everything we can to stop the virus spreading and ensure the people of Cornwall are protected.

"If you have not been contacted by Public Health England as a close contact of the confirmed case you do not need to take any action at this time.

"Good hygiene is the best prevention and there are some simple steps you can take to protect you and your family by washing your hands regularly and thoroughly and if you cough, cover your mouth and nose with a tissue.

"If you have recently been to one of the affected areas and are feeling unwell, you should use the NHS 111 online coronavirus service or call NHS 111 for further advice straight away — please don’t go to your doctor or a hospital."