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Most Brits have been following the instructions to remain at home during the UK’s coronavirus lockdown.

However, some emergency workers and other frontline staff have had people claiming to have Covid-19 cough at them deliberately.

A woman in Aldi allegedly lunged forward and aimed a cough at another customer in a row over social distancing, while yobs spat in the face of an RSPCA officer yelling "have Corona b***h" while she tried to rescue a swan.

These vile acts have appalled the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) who have vowed to prosecute anyone coughing at other people while claiming to have the deadly virus.

Is it illegal?

The CPS has said that anyone coughing as a threat at key workers or members of the public can be charged with common assault. Those aiming coughs and spits at emergency workers can be punished under a separate law.

(Image: PA)

Even threatening to cough or spit is enough to see someone charged.

Max Hill QC, Director of Public Prosecutions, said: “I am therefore appalled by reports of police officers and other frontline workers being deliberately coughed at by people claiming to have Covid-19.

“Let me be very clear: this is a crime and needs to stop. The CPS stands behind emergency and essential workers and will not hesitate to prosecute anybody who threatens them as they go about their vital duties.”

What’s the punishment?

Anyone found guilty of assaulting emergency workers can be given a prison sentence of up to 12 months.

New laws have made assaults against police, NHS staff, prison officers, firefighters and other key workers a specific offence.

“Emergency workers are more essential than ever as society comes together to tackle the coronavirus pandemic,” Mr Hill added.

Has anyone been convicted?

Two cases have been reported by the CPS.

Darren Rafferty, 45, from Dagenham claimed to have coronavirus and directed coughs at Metropolitan Police officers arresting him for another offence. He admitted three counts of assaulting an emergency worker and will be sentenced on April 1.

Meanwhile 40-year-old David Mott from Blackburn has been jailed for threatening to spit at police when asked why he was out with two others following the Prime Minister’s announcement of stricter social distancing rules.