- As of 18 February, a total of 4,916 people have been tested in the UK, of which 4,907 were confirmed negative and 9 positive.
- Globally as of 18 February there are 73,421 cases of which 72,436 are in China. The fatalities to date are 1,873 (1,868 of these are within China, Japan (1), Hong Kong SAR (1), Taiwan (1), France (1), Philippines (1)).
- This morning the FCO issued a statement regarding repatriation of British passengers aboard the Diamond Princess, saying, “Given the conditions on board, we are working to organise a flight back to the UK for British nationals on the Diamond Princess as soon as possible”.
Practical advice and guidance
- Public Health England issued guidance to assist schools and other educational establishments - the advice is for pupils, students, staff and parents.
- The Department for Transport issued guidance for staff in the transport sector that frontline staff may find useful.
Immigrations guidance for Chinese visitors
- The Home Office and UKVI have issued immigration guidance for individuals in the UK who are unable to return to China.
- The Home Office have set up a dedicated coronavirus immigration helpline - Telephone: 0800 678 1767 (Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm)- Email: CIH@homeoffice.gov.uk
Reassurance document from VisitBritain relating to attraction and accommodation providers who are expressing concern around accepting bookings for ExploreGB educational trips in May 2020 can be seen here.