18:09

In a major change of policy, some people who are confirmed to have contracted the virus, but display only mild symptoms are now being treated at home rather than in hospital.

Of the 115 confirmed cases across the UK since the outbreak began in late January, 18 have recovered, 52 are still being cared for in hospital and 45 are being treated at home, said Dr Susan Hopkins, the deputy director of Public Health England’s national infection service.

“We’ve moved to a situation where people have minimal symptoms and they can self-isolate. It’s safer for them to self-isolate in their own homes, with support,” said Prof Chris Whitty, the chief medical officer for England and the government’s chief medical adviser for the UK.



Prof Steve Powis, NHS England’s national medical director, said: “If the symptoms are mild then it’s appropriate for people to be in a home setting rather than a hospital setting.”



Asked how the authorities are ensuring that infected patients are staying indoors, she said that all 45 people are displaying very responsible behaviour. “Many are isolating in their bedroom and only coming out of their room to get food and go back in. They are being very responsible.”