Number of confirmed coronavirus cases in the UK rises to 2,626

manchestereveningnews.co.uk:

The number of confirmed cases of coronavirus in the UK has increased by 676 from 1,950 to 2,626. More than 56,221 people have now been tested for Covid-19 in the UK.

The latest update from the Department of Health reads: “As of 9am on 18 March 2020, 56,221 people have been tested in the UK, of which 53,595 were confirmed negative and 2,626 were confirmed positive.

The latest confirmed number of deaths will be announced later today.” The number of people who have died in the UK after contracting coronavirus reached 71 yesterday, but an updated death toll is expected to be announced this afternoon.

The government says it is currently prioritising testing for people who are most at risk, including those who are in hospital care for pneumonia