The Daily Star's FREE newsletter is spectacular! Sign up today for the best stories straight to your inbox Sign up today! Thank you for subscribing See our privacy notice Invalid Email

The Vatican has reported its first confirmed case of coronavirus.

The tiny walled city state has announced the suspension of outpatient services at its health clinic after a patient tested positive for COVID-19.

The clinic will now be deep cleaned while the emergency room will remain open, spokesman Matteo Bruni told AFP.

The patient tested positive on Thursday. It's unknown if they are an employee of the Vatican or a member of the clergy.

The clinic is used by priests, residents and employees - including former employees who are now retired - as well as their family members.

(Image: AFP via Getty Images)

Bruni said the Vatican was working to get in touch with all those who had passed through the clinic, as per protocol.

Pope Francis, who recently cancelled a Lent retreat for the first time in his papacy due to illness, is suffering from

a common cold that is "without symptoms related to other pathologies", according to the Vatican.

Approximately 1,000 people live in the Vatican, consisting entirely of the clergy, employees and members of the Swiss Guard police.

(Image: AFP via Getty Images)

Italy, which borders the Vatican, has been the worst-hit country in Europe affected by the coronavirus outbreak, with more than 3,000 confirmed cases.

The Italian death toll reached 148 on Thursday.

Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte has announced big sporting events like football matches will be held with no fans watching until April 3 in an effort to reduce the spread of the potentially deadly virus.

In a five-minute video posted on his official Facebook page, he told viewers this measure would assure "responsible behaviour" and help "prevent further opportunities of infection".