It has now issued guidance on limiting the spread of the virus, including hygiene measures, travel advice and what to do if you have symptoms.
5. Information about the virus
A coronavirus is a type of virus. As a group, coronaviruses are common across the world. Typical symptoms of coronavirus include fever and a cough that may progress to a severe pneumonia causing shortness of breath and breathing difficulties. Generally, coronavirus can cause more severe symptoms in people with weakened immune systems, older people, and those with long-term conditions like diabetes, cancer and chronic lung disease.
6. What symptoms to look for
The symptoms of coronavirus are: a cough
a high temperature
shortness of breath
But these symptoms do not necessarily mean you have the illness. The symptoms are similar to other illnesses that are much more common, such as cold and flu.
7. How coronavirus is spread
Because it's a new illness, we do not know exactly how coronavirus spreads from person to person. Similar viruses are spread in cough droplets. It's very unlikely it can be spread through things like packages or food.
8. How to prevent spreading the virus
Wash your hands with soap and water often do this 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 Do not touch your eyes, nose or mouth if your hands are not clean