Prime Minister Boris Johnson writing to every UK household to urge Brits to stay home in fight against coronavirus

Coronavirus: The symptoms
Rebecca Speare-Cole29 March 2020

Boris Johnson is writing to every household in the UK to urge the public to stay at home during the coronavirus "national emergency".

In his letters, the Prime Minister will warn that "things will get worse before they get better" as he stresses the need to stay indoors to support the NHS.

He will write to the country from No 10 Downing Street, where he is self-isolating after testing positive for Covid-19.

At an anticipated cost of £5.8 million, the letters will land on 30 million doorsteps along with a leaflet spelling out the Government's advice after much public confusion.

He will write to the country from Number 10 Downing Street, where he is self-isolating after testing positive for Covid-19
10 Downing Street/AFP via Getty

They are the latest in a public information campaign from No 10 to convince people to stay at home, wash their hands and shield the most vulnerable from the disease.

"We know things will get worse before they get better," the PM's letter will read.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson chairing the morning Covid-19 Meeting after testing postive for the virus 
PA

"But we are making the right preparations, and the more we all follow the rules, the fewer lives will be lost and the sooner life can return to normal.

"It has been truly inspirational to see our doctors, nurses and other carers rise magnificently to the needs of the hour.

"Thousands of retired doctors and nurses are returning to the NHS - and hundreds of thousands of citizens are volunteering to help the most vulnerable.

"That is why, at this moment of national emergency, I urge you, please, to stay at home, protect the NHS and save lives."

Amid allegations of confusing messages on the lockdown, the leaflet will outline the Government's rules on leaving the house and advice on shielding vulnerable people.

A clear explanation of the symptoms will also be included as will guidance on hand washing.

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