Two MPs have self-isolated after attending a summit in London at the centre of a coronavirus scare.
The MPs took action after Public Health England informed them that another person who attended the same conference had been diagnosed with the virus.
Labour MP Lilian Greenwood has cancelled all of her public engagements until February 20. But she said on Twitter that she is feeling well.
8 days ago I spoke at the UK Bus Summit. This morning I received this advice from Public Health England. I’m feeling completely well but to be extra-cautious I’m cancelling my public engagements until 20th February. Sorry for any inconvenience. pic.twitter.com/Q9pGKXwh80
— Lilian Greenwood 💙 (@LilianGreenwood) February 14, 2020
Earlier this morning, Alex Sobel, Labour MP for Leeds north west, announced that he has decided to self-isolate at home until next week. He will be tested for the virus.
*Statement* As has been reported by @harry_horton I attended the UK bus summit on the 6th Feb, where there was an attendee who has tested positive for coronavirus. Whilst I have been informed that I am at very low risk, I have called 111 to be formally assessed.
— Alex Sobel – Vote Tracy Brabin for WY Mayor (@alexsobel) February 14, 2020
Sobel admitted that he was informed he was at “very low risk” of carrying the virus.
The conference in London was attended by 250 people. Public Health England said the attendees did not need to take any action unless they develop symptoms, such as cough or fevers.
Fear of coronavirus continues
Eight planes were held on “lockdown” at Heathrow airport this morning after a passenger on board tweeted to say there was a coronavirus carrier on board.
A United Airlines flight 901, which departed from San Francisco, was held on the runaway while officials boarded the plane.
The passengers were asked to fill in a form before the plane was emptied and cleaned by experts.
New cases confirmed
More than 2,900 people in the UK have been tested for the coronavirus to date. Nine, of all the results, have come back positive. Officials says it is highly likely that these figures are set to rise over the next few days.
Over 1,300 people have died of coronavirus worldwide, most cases identified in China.
The main symptoms of coronavirus are high fever, coughing, and breathing difficulty. The spread of the virus can be limited through frequent handwashing with anti-bacterial hand gel, and avoiding direct contact with those infected.
Officials from PHE have warned those who suspect that they may be carrying the virus to stay indoors and contact the NHS immediately.