Hospitals across Suffolk and Essex say they are following government advice as the coronavirus continues to spread across the world.

East Anglian Daily Times: The University of Essex are in contact with Public Health England regarding the coronavirus outbreak Picture: UNIVERSITY OF ESSEXThe University of Essex are in contact with Public Health England regarding the coronavirus outbreak Picture: UNIVERSITY OF ESSEX (Image: Archant)

Coronavirus, first detected in the Chinese city of Wuhan late last year, is a virus that causes respiratory problems and causes pneumonia.

So far more than 80 people have died as a result of the virus, with more than 2,800 confirmed cases and almost 5,800 suspected cases worldwide.

A spokesman for East Suffolk and North Essex Foundation Trust (ESNEFT), which runs Ipswich and Colchester hospitals, said: "We are following all of the advice and guidance issued by Public Health England (PHE)."

West Suffolk Hospital are also deferring to advice from the Department for Health and Social Care.

East Anglian Daily Times: East Suffolk and North Essex NHS Foundation Trust (ESNEFT) are also following PHE protocol Picture: SARAH LUCY BROWNEast Suffolk and North Essex NHS Foundation Trust (ESNEFT) are also following PHE protocol Picture: SARAH LUCY BROWN (Image: Archant)

The University of Essex has a large international student population, with hundreds of their UK-based students coming from China and a campus in Beijing.

A university spokesperson said: "We are in close contact with PHE. We are sharing information and advice provided by PHE with our university community."

East Anglian Daily Times: West Suffolk Hospital. Picture: GREGG BROWNWest Suffolk Hospital. Picture: GREGG BROWN