Jarrow MP Kate Osborne self-isolating as she confirms she has coronavirus

Jarrow MP Kate Osborne broke the news that she had tested positive for COVID-19 on her Twitter account on Monday, March 16.

She said she is self-isolating until she has battled the illness and encouraged people to “band together” to support vulnerable people in the community.

Urging those who are displaying symptoms to stay at home for seven days, the MP reassured constituents that they would still be able to contact her via email.

In her Tweet, the MP said: “I have been diagnosed with Coronavirus (#covidー19uk) following a period of self isolation and subsequent testing.

“I will continue to self isolate until I have fought off the illness, but in the mean time I would encourage everyone to band together and support the most vulnerable in our communities.

“The NHS are urging people to stay at home for seven days if you have either a high temperature or a new, continuous cough.

“If you are displaying any symptoms yourself, please self isolate and visit 111.NHS.UK or call 111 for advice.

“To all of my constituents, you can still contact me and my staff by emailing [email protected]

“Thank you, Kate.”

Cases of coronavirus were first reported in Hubei Province, China, in December 2019 and further cases have been confirmed around the world.

Symptoms include fever and a cough that may progress to pneumonia causing breathing difficulties.

Anyone with the above symptoms is urged to use the 111 online coronavirus service to find out what to do next, but should not visit a GP surgery, pharmacy or hospital.

As of 9am on Sunday, March 15, the number of coronavirus cases in the UK stands at 1,391. The total number of UK deaths is 35.

There are 91 cases in the North East and Yorkshire.

In the North East, there are four confirmed cases in Newcastle, two in North Tyneside, Darlington and Stockton and one each in Gateshead, Sunderland, County Durham and Redcar and Cleveland.