Britain has ramped up its response to the escalating coronavirus outbreak, with its government imposing unprecedented peacetime measures prompted by scientific advice that infections and deaths would spiral without drastic action.
More firms sent staff to work from home and public transport emptied after the government called for an end to "non-essential" social contact and unnecessary travel as confirmed COVID-19 cases climbed to more than 1,500 and deaths rose to 55.
More stringent restrictions are expected in the coming days, including forcing people with serious health conditions to stay at home for three months to ease pressure on health services.