Lewis Hamilton has urged people to reduce their social interactions to reduce the impact of the pandemic, describing those who continue to mix with groups of others as “selfish”.

Many countries are advising people to practice ‘social distancing’ by keeping away from other people where possible. However some people are continuing to go about their lives as normal.

According to the World Health Organization almost 13,000 deaths worldwide have resulted from the pandemic’s spread.

“I’m so sad to hear of the amount of deaths happening around the world,” Hamilton wrote in a social media post.

“I know most of us are limited with the knowledge of why and how this has happened.

“There is nothing we can do about it either way except try to isolate ourselves, stop ourselves from catching it and spreading it. There are people out there still going to clubs and bars and large gatherings which I personally feel is totally irresponsible and selfish.

“I’m praying for my [family’s] safety each day but I’m also praying for you out there. I’m praying for those working at the local stores, delivers, doctors and nurses who put their own health at risk to help others and keep the countries running. Those are the [heroes]. Please stay safe people.”

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Hamilton, who said two days ago he was symptom-free, was strongly critical of F1’s attempt to hold its season-opening race in Australia two weeks ago.

The first seven races of this year’s championship have been postponed or cancelled. With growing numbers of people worldwide being forced to halt their work and social lives, Hamilton advised his millions of followers to take advantage of the opportunity for self-reflection.

“If you can, try and take this time to assess your life and situation and how you might want to change things for the better moving forwards,” he wrote.

“Hopefully through this people will realise even more how health is priceless, how you treat yourself and what you put in your body is so important and also hygiene. We take this life for granted. I hope we don’t moving forwards.”

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2020 F1 season