Schools Facing Possible Closure Because of Covid-19

Ten new cases of the coronavirus have been confirmed in the Republic of Ireland - bringing the total number to 34.

Two are healthcare workers, while the remainder had either returned from an affected area or had close contact with another confirmed case.
The country remains in a containment phase, but is expected to move to a delay phase where the closure of schools is a possibility.

EU leaders last night agreed funding for research to find a vaccine and to ensure enough medical equipment and supplies during the outbreak.
Health ministers will hold daily talks, while airlines will be protected from losing landing slots where flights are suspended.

Meanwhile Italy's looking increasingly isolated - as coronavirus deaths continue to soar across the country.
Thousands of flights are cancelled - and Austria's even refusing to let travellers cross the border without a medical certificate.

A UK junior health minister has tested positive for the coronavirus.
Nadine Dorries, who oversees patient safety, says she is self-isolating at home and says she's taken all the advised precautions.
The Times of London is reporting she met "hundreds of people" in the British parliament in the past week, causing concern for her colleagues.