Brits can protect themselves from coronavirus simply by washing their hands as outbreak reaches ‘decisive moment’

BRITS can still head off a coronavirus pandemic simply by washing their hands, experts said last night — as the outbreak reached a “decisive moment”.

Three more British cases were confirmed yesterday, taking the total to 16. Some people have taken to wearing face masks to prevent infection.

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A man wears a mask as a precaution against the spread of coronavirusCredit: AP:Associated Press

Brits can head off a coronavirus pandemic in the UK by simply washing their hands, health chiefs say

But health bosses stressed that we can all help to limit the spread by just washing hands regularly and thoroughly.

Diseases expert Professor Hugh Pennington, from Aberdeen University, said: “Healthy people should wash their hands when they arrive at home or work, and before handling food.

“Just using ordinary soap and water is all that’s needed. It can make all the difference and really limit the spread of this virus.”

Tonight Buxton, Derbys, was in lockdown after a school parent was infected.

NHS boss Simon Stevens said it was “ramping up” coronavirus preparations.

A “drive-through” Covid-19 testing service for suspected cases is to be introduced.

It is being provided by Central London Community Healthcare NHS Trust in Parsons Green, West London, as part of efforts to get people checked “safely and quickly” and close to their homes.

Mr Stevens warned that some events, including sporting fixtures, could be called off in a major UK outbreak.

It came after world Health Organisation chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus warned: “This virus has pandemic potential. We’re at a decisive point.”