Three people from West Yorkshire have been diagnosed with coronavirus - bringing the total number of cases in the UK to 36.

Two of them are from Leeds, who became infected while travelling to Iran.

The third case, from Bradford, not connected to the other two, became infected in Italy.

Covid-19 can be spread through coughs and sneezes. Credit: PA Images

In a statement Dr Simon Padfield, Consultant in Communicable Disease Control for Public Health England Yorkshire and the Humber, said: “Public Health England is contacting people who had close contact with three cases of COVID-19 confirmed in West Yorkshire.

''One of the cases is a resident of Bradford who became infected whilst in Italy and the other two cases are residents of Leeds who both became infected whilst in Iran.The case in Bradford is not linked to the two cases in Leeds.

''Close contacts will be given health advice about symptoms and emergency contact details to use if they become unwell in the 14 days after contact with the confirmed cases. This tried and tested method will ensure we are able to minimise any risk to them and the wider public.”

Our reporter Matt Price has the latest advice and information:

More than 2,900 people have died worldwide from Covid-19 Credit: Centre for Disease Control

In a joint statement, Directors of Public Health for Leeds City Council and Bradford Council, Victoria Eaton and Sarah Muckle, added: “We would like to send our best wishes to those affected as they continue their recovery.“Leeds and Bradford have robust infection control arrangements in place and strong partnership arrangements across the health and care system.

“The councils are working closely with Public Health England, the NHS and all our health and care partners to prevent further spread of the virus.

“As such, the risk to people living, working, studying and visiting Leeds and Bradford remains low and the cities are very much open for business.

“In the meantime, it is important to follow good hygiene practices and if you show symptoms please ring NHS 111 rather than ring your GP or go to a hospital. For the latest advice visit gov.uk/coronavirus.

“Leeds City Council and Bradford Council will continue to work with Public Health England to share timely and relevant information with the public and our partners.''