At the time there had been around 80,000 cases worldwide. Health Secretary Matt Hancock said London could be placed on lockdown in the event of a widespread coronavirus outbreak. Mr Hancock said on the BBC’s Andrew Marr show that the Government was “looking at all options” and did not rule out following China’s lead in isolating cities. “We won’t take anything off the table at this stage, because you have got to make sure you have all the tools available if that is what is necessary”, he said. Essex’s first confirmed coronavirus patient was treated in Harlow as the month began before being transferred to another hospital.
John Cleese: I think I caught coronavirus in March
PA
12 December 2020, 10:52 am
John Cleese has said he believes he contracted coronavirus in March, describing it as “like the worst case of flu I’ve ever had”.
The Fawlty Towers star, 81, recorded a video to encourage residents in Basildon, Essex, to abide by restrictions.
The area’s rate of new Covid-19 cases was the third highest in England for the seven days to December 7.
He said: “I think I had it in March. It was like having the worst case of flu I have ever had. It lasted about seven days. I didn’t have trouble breathing. It hasn’t affected my breathing but it very easily can and you never know if it is going to be mild or nasty.”