Boris Johnson last night unveiled dramatic measures intended to tackle the spread of Covid-19.
More details are likely to emerge in the coming days as the country gets to grips with the tough
new guidance.
But at this early stage, the Mirror has pulled together some answers to your key questions...
Am I in an at-risk group?
Some over-70s and people with significant pre-existing conditions will be asked within days to be “largely shielded from social contact” for 12 weeks.
According to Public Health England, Covid-19 poses the biggest threat to those who have weaker immune systems and long-term or chronic illnesses.
These are likely to include heart disease, lung disease, diabetes, high blood pressure and cancer – but a definitive list has not been published yet.
Those who need to be shielded will be contacted by the NHS, Health Secretary Matt Hancock has said.
What does ‘shielded from social contact’ mean?
It is not yet clear if these shielding measures will be as tough as those for people with symptoms, who are self-isolating.
But it is likely they will involve staying indoors and avoiding school, work and public transport.
You may also need to ask for help getting groceries, shopping and medication.
Try to plan ahead with friends, family and neighbours to make sure you have everything you need.
Those with symptoms or members of their household should avoid contact with you as much as possible.
What if I am in my 70s but in good health?
If you are over 70 but in good health with no significant underlying conditions, you should follow the same precautions as those of working age. But you are strongly advised to carefully follow social distancing measures.
This means you should avoid gatherings and crowded places, such as pubs, clubs and theatres. If you still work, you should do so from home.
All “unnecessary” visits to friends and relatives in care homes should cease. And you should regularly wash your hands for 20 seconds with soap and water.
What if I am pregnant?
The same measures about social distancing apply to pregnant women, who have been told it is “particularly important” for them to avoid unnecessary social contact. They are strongly advised against these activities and to significantly limit face-to-face interaction with friends and family if possible.
How long will these social distancing measures last?
Officials warn that the battle against coronavirus is a marathon rather than a sprint.
Social distancing measures are likely to be in place for a prolonged period of “weeks to months”.
What do I do if I have the symptoms?
If you have a high temperature or a new continuous cough, you and your whole household need to self-isolate for 14 days.
You need to stay at home, not go to work, school or other public places, and avoid public transport or taxis.
You should wash your hands regularly and sleep alone, if possible, and try to stay a minimum of two metres from other people in your home.
Ask for help if you need groceries, other shopping or medication.
It is OK to have friends, family or delivery drivers drop off supplies to get you through. But you should not have any visitors and deliveries should be left on the doorstep.
If I am self-isolating, can I walk my dog?
You should stay indoors. Try to find a friend or neighbour who can help.
What are businesses and shops doing to help?
Nationwide is opening branches an hour early from 8am to 9am for the elderly and vulnerable to do their banking.
But it is unclear if it is advisable for those with pre-existing conditions to go outdoors at all.
Age UK and grass roots charities are rallying community efforts to ensure those who need to stay indoors have everything they need.
