THE first case of coronavirus in County Durham has been confirmed.

The article has been updated to reflect the new location

The affected person did not attend Darlington Memorial Hospital and has self-isolated. They initially telephoned NHS 111 after displaying some of the symptoms and were advised to attend coronavirus testing 'pod' in Darlington, where they were diagnosed.

Miriam Davidson, Darlington’s Director of Public Health, said: “We send our very best wishes to the person affected and wish them a full recovery.

"We are working closely with Public Health England and the NHS to share accurate, relevant information with the public and our partners.

"It is important that people use official sources of information for updates - our website, www.darlington.gov.uk/coronavirus has links to all the official latest advice from the Government and NHS.

"To help prevent further spread of the virus please continue to follow good hand washing and hygiene practices.”

Dr Kirsty Foster, Consultant in Health Protection for Public Health England North East, said: “Public Health England is contacting people who had close contact with a confirmed case of COVID-19.

"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.”

A total of 373 people have tested positive for the disease in the UK as of 9am on Tuesday, up from 319 at the same point on Monday, the Department of Health said. Six people have now died.

NHS: How to avoid catching or spreading coronavirus

Do

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

Don't