NHS staff in Glasgow are to carry out home visits to test for possible cases of Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Staff from the public health team wearing protective suits will be taking samples from anyone experiencing symptoms who has visited any of the affected areas or been in contact with anyone who has recently returned.

The health board urged against alarm if residents see health workers wearing protective clothing, saying "no one is at risk."

Anyone who has visited China, Thailand, Japan, Republic of Korean, Hong Kong, Taiway, Singapore, Malaysia and Macau who is displaying symptoms within 14 days of returning is advised to phone their GP or NHS 24 on 111 immediately. 

Read more:  Coronavirus outbreak. What is it and should we be concerned?

The world-wide death toll is thought to be 1,370, with the majority of cases identified in mainland China.

Symptoms include high temperature or fever, a cough or shortness of breath.

If anyone has been to Wuhan City or other parts of Hubei province and don’t have symptoms they are asked to remain at home (self-isolate) for 14 days following their return and avoid having visitors but it is not necessary for family members to remain at home.

Read more: Coronavirus testing centre to be set up in Glasgow 

Dr Emilia Crighton, Deputy Director of Public Health, NHSGGC, said:  “The risk of catching this illness in the UK is extremely low and only those returning from at risk areas, or people in contact with someone diagnosed with the illness are at risk.

“Our staff carrying out the testing will be wearing protective clothing as a precautionary measure and we would appreciate if the public show their support for our staff."