A joint statement from the island’s GPs is calling for residents to act together in the fight against coronavirus.

The statement has been signed by GPs from Laxey and Village Walk Health Centres, Palatine, Finch Hill, Ramsey, Kensington, Peel and Southern group practices, Snaefell Surgery and Castletown, Hailwood, Promenade and Ballasalla medical centres.

The doctors have said: ’It might feel as if we are not yet at the stage of other countries, but we must act now. Every hour that passes by is critical.

’You will by now have heard the measures that the government has announced to protect us all from coronavirus. We need to do everything we can to stop the virus spreading.

’We need to keep each other safe. The only way to limit and slow down the spread of infection is to follow government advice on www.gov.im/coronavirus.’

The GPs have shared a list of the things that we all can do to keep the island safe:

- You must wash your hands regularly and use hand sanitizer gel. Clean surfaces regularly. This will kill coronavirus and is a proven way to reduce your risk of infection.

- If you have a new cough or a high temperature, you and your whole household must self-isolate for 14 days. Use the 111 online coronavirus service at gov.im/covidtest to find out what to do.

- If you arrive on the island, you must self-isolate for 14 days at home. Anyone not following these rules is liable to be arrested and prosecuted.

- Even if you are well, you MUST take social distancing very seriously.

- We ask that you do not visit your friends and relatives and do not arrange to meet friends at all. Stay at home. Remain in your homes and gardens as much as possible, unless you need to go out for essential supplies, medical need, or work if you cannot work from home. Stay two metres away from others whenever you are out.