Aintree Hospital Surgeon reportedly tests positive for Coronavirus

A hospital surgeon is reported to have tested positive for coronavirus.

The male consultant surgeon at Aintree University Hospital tested positive for the virus on Monday having previously returned from a trip to Italy, the Liverpool Echo reported.

A spokesman for Liverpool University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust said a staff member had been confirmed as positive for Covid-19.

He did not challenge reports the patient was a surgeon, but would not confirm them.

The spokesman said the member of staff had been in self-isolation since being diagnosed.

"We have contacted all the patients that are identified as coming into contact with the staff member and are working with Public Health England (PHE) and NHS England to inform and advise those who may have come into contact with this individual," he said.

"Aintree University Hospital remains open and patients should attend their appointments as planned.

"For the majority of people the risk from Covid-19 is low. The NHS has an online service that can tell you if you need medical help, which is available at www.111.nhs.uk/covid-19 or by calling NHS 111."