Coronavirus: Isle of Man sees first patients hospitalised

The Isle of Man's first coronavirus patients to require specialist treatment have been admitted to Noble's Hospital.

Two people were now being treated for "respiratory problems", Health Minister David Ashford said.

Meanwhile, there were three more positive test results on the island, increasing the total number of confirmed cases to 26.

Mr Ashford said following advice on social distancing was "essential".

Several strict new measures will be introduced on Friday, obliging people to stay at home whenever possible.

People living in a household in which nobody has coronavirus symptoms are still allowed:

to shop for necessities
to go for a brief period of exercise
to travel for their medical needs
to travel to and from work, but only when it definitely cannot be done from home
to move children under the age of 18 between the homes of separated parents

Anyone breaching the rules could face a fine of £30.

The government also announced that the island's borders would close to all arrivals when the final passenger ferry returns to Douglas at 06:00 GMT on Friday.

All non-essential shops have been ordered to close by 23:59 on Thursday.

Isle of Man closing borders 'to preserve life'