There have been reported cases in China of respiratory infections caused by a novel coronavirus, currently, there are no confirmed cases in the UK.
The Chief Medical Officer for England has issued an alert for all clinical staff encountering patients with respiratory infections who have arrived from overseas.
Public Health England has issued guidance on the management of a suspected case of Wuhan novel coronavirus. The management flow chart they have issued is to help identify by initial questionnaire and assessment patients who may require isolation and testing. PHE is advising that all primary and secondary healthcare providers should ensure they are able to comply.
The current patient pathway is for assessment in airborne isolation in an acute trust, followed by testing and a period of isolation (at home or in hospital) whilst awaiting the results. Further details, advice and actions for pharmacists, and primary and secondary care healthcare professionals can be found in the Department of Health and Social Care alert and the PHE Management Flow Chart.