Some GPs in Nottinghamshire are being advised to stop online appointment bookings to prevent the further spread of coronavirus.
So far, seven cases of COVID-19 have been reported in Nottingham and Nottinghamshire and GPs have suspended online bookings so receptionists can ask questions on the phone.
Two cases in the county are now confirmed to be in Southwell.
In a letter to healthcare organisations, Dr Nikita Kanani, medical director for primary care at NHS England, said: "To mitigate any risk that potentially infected patients book appointments online and attend the practice when they should be receiving advice to self-isolate or go through testing, all practices are now being advised to change face-to-face appointments booked online to triage appointments via telephone or video."
The Castle Healthcare Practice in West Bridgford says it has suspended all online appointment bookings.
Receptionists can therefore ask questions to determine someone's symptoms before they attend the practice.
A message from the surgery said: "Due to the Coronavirus we have decided to temporarily suspend the online appointment system.
"The facility to order prescriptions online has not been affected. The sit and wait blood clinic has also been suspended and will operate on a pre-booked appointment basis.
"We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause and thank you for your patience at this time."
The Nottingham and Nottinghamshire Clinical Commissioning Group said as the NHS commissioner it is urging local practices to follow the new guidance.
All practices received an initial stock of protective kit this week, NHS England says, including 400 general use aprons, 300 pairs of examination gloves and 300 fluid-repellent face masks.
Larger surgeries will receive repeat deliveries, it added.
