FIVE cases of coronavirus have so far been confirmed in Wirral.

News that a fifth person had tested positive for COVID-19 was confirmed this afternoon.

Julie Webster, Director of Public Health for Wirral Council said: "Today we have been made aware of another positive COVID-19 case in the borough.

"I’d like to reassure people that Wirral Council continues to work with health colleagues to do everything we can to stop the virus spreading and ensure our borough is protected.”

Two were confirmed on Wednesday afternoon. Wirral Public Health confirmed that the cases are linked and relate to two residents who recently returned from a trip to Italy.

Last Tuesday, Hilbre School in West Kirby was closed with immediate effect after it was confirmed the step-parent of a pupil had tested positive for coronavirus.

The school reopened, after a deep clean, last Friday.

The cases announced this afternoon are not related to the one at Hilbre.

The patients have been in contact with Public Health England and advised to self-isolate.

Julie Webster, director of public health for Wirral Council said: "Today we have been made aware of another two positive COVID-19 cases in the borough.

"These people had returned from one of the affected areas and have self-isolated accordingly.

"I'd like to reassure people that Wirral Council continues to work with health colleagues to do everything we can to stop the virus spreading and ensure our borough is protected."

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A Public Health England spokesman added that it the organisation was contacting people who had close contact with these people.

"Close contacts will be given health advice about symptoms and emergency contact details to use if they become unwell in the 14 days after contact with the confirmed cases."

"This tried and tested method will ensure that PHE are able to minimise any risk to them and the wider public."

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Julie Webster continued: "Good hygiene is the best prevention and there are some simple steps you can take to protect you and your family by washing your hands regularly and thoroughly and if you cough, cover your mouth and nose with a tissue.

"If you are feeling unwell and have any of the symptoms associated with COVID-19, particularly if you have recently returned from overseas, you should stay at home and call 111 or use the 111 online coronavirus service to find out what to do next.

"Do not go to your GP surgery, pharmacy or hospital.

"There’s lots of advice on how people can protect themselves online at www.nhs.uk/coronavirus."