Boris Johnson is scrambling to put emergency coronavirus measures in place by the end of the month as ministers fear a prolonged spring outbreak.

The prime minister agreed a “battleplan” this morning detailing restrictions on daily life that may become necessary in the face of an illness epidemic in Britain as the total number of UK cases reached 40.

He said sustained spread was now “likely” as he urged every to follow his example by washing their hands more regularly while singing Happy Birthday.

A first peak is expected within two to three months and “reasonable worst-case” plans estimate that between 50 and 80 per cent of people will become infected. However, most cases will be mild.

Speaking after a meeting with representatives of