The chief constable of Merseyside Police is in self-isolation after developing potential coronavirus symptoms.
Andy Cooke said he took the decision to self-isolate to prevent putting his colleagues at risk.
He is working from home and is still able to fullfill his duties, the ECHO understands.
Mr Cooke is said to have been in "constant contact" with senior Merseyside Police figures and national partners throughout his time in self-isolation.
The chief constable told the ECHO: "The force is doing everything it can to keep up to speed with the challenges of the spread of this virus.
"Senior officers and supervisors are reviewing business continuity plans and putting measures in place to ensure we do everything possible to protect our officers and staff so that we can deliver an efficient and effective policing service to our local communities.
“Towards the end of last week I developed symptoms and in line with national guidance, and our own force guidance, I made the decision to self-isolate as I didn’t want to put my colleagues at any potential risk.
“There’s no doubt that in the coming weeks and months our officers and staff will face the same dilemma. It is going to be a tough ride for all organisations, big and small.
“Here at Merseyside Police we will continue to work together to protect our communities.
"We will make the right decisions for the right reasons and keep the service running whilst we provide support for our officers and staff and their families if they need it."
Mr Cooke had not sought to be tested as he wanted to avoid placing a burden on the health system at this time.
The force said Mr Cooke had the "capacity and technology" to perform his duties from home.
The news comes as diagnosed cases of coronavirus rose by 171 in the UK, according to the Department of Health.
The death toll now stands at 36, including the first fatality in Wales, the Government said on Monday afternoon..
