Health Minister David Ashford has said the island is ’now in the next stage’ following the confirmation of a positive test for coronavirus in the Isle of Man.

Mr Ashford read a prepared statement and confirmed that Chief Minister Howard Quayle will be holding a press conference later today.

It was confirmed on Thursday night that the first case of Covid-19 has been diagnosed in the island after a man returned from holiday in Spain.

Mr Ashford said: ’The patient was contacted last night and is receiving advice and support. Contact tracing is underway.

’The patient is currently defined as having a mild case and has not required any hospital treatment. And is self isolating at home until the symptoms pass.’

The Health Minister said that while the man has been tested positive for the virus, his family are not showing symptoms of the disease and there is no evidence it has been transmitted to other people.

He added: ’The situation has now changed, we have moved into the next chapter.

’We are finalising a further package of measures and a full announcement will be made this afternoon.

’I can tell you that everything is being considered and nothing is off the table.

’Further to what I have stated at previous press conferences, we will now be moving to the next stage of our plans. It is important that I make clear to people that these measures will change our daily lives.

’The fact that the first case has been confirmed on Island emphasizes how important it is that people follow the advice that we have already issued. This advice is in place to protect all of us in our Island community at this difficult time.’

Chief Minister Howard Quayle is due to make an announcement later today, check back to our website and social media for more updates.