Coronavirus: The Eastney Tavern shuts its doors after government's latest Covid-19 update

The Eastney Tavern, in Cromwell Road, has told punters this evening that it will be closed with ‘immediate effect’ after prime minister Boris Johnson advised that people in the UK should avoid pubs, clubs and theatres.

The team hope to reopen again soon.

A post on the pub’s Facebook read: ‘To all our fantastic customers, we are very sorry to announced that following the latest government and chief medical officer announcement (5pm, March 16), we are closed with immediate effect.

‘We hope that you all stay safe during this very difficult time and hope to see you all again as soon as we can.

‘All booking will be contacted very soon.’

It comes after pub owners across the city told The News that forced closures could be ‘devastating’.

Colin Johnson, managing director of Southern Counties Taverns, runs eight pubs across Portsmouth, Fareham, Farlington, Rowner and Bognor, said: ‘The impact of this will be catastrophic. It may be the end of licensed premises as we know it.

‘This is by far the worst time for the pub industry. We survived the 2008 recession. This is starting to make that look easy.’

It comes after Portsmouth had its first confirmed Covid-19 case on Saturday and the number of cases across Hampshire totals 57.

A 69-year-old man from Hampshire with underlying health conditions has also died after testing positive for the virus.

Coronavirus: the facts

What is coronavirus?

COVID-19 is a respiratory illness that can affect lungs and airways. It is caused by a virus called coronavirus.

What caused coronavirus?

The outbreak started in Wuhan in China in December 2019 and it is thought that the virus, like others of its kind, has come from animals.

How is it spread?

As this is such a new illness, experts still aren’t sure how it is spread. But similar viruses are spread in cough droplets. Therefore covering your nose and mouth when sneezing and coughing, and disposing of used tissues straight away is advised. Viruses like coronavirus cannot live outside the body for very long.

What are the symptoms?

The NHS states that the symptoms are: a dry cough, high temperature and shortness of breath - but these symptoms do not necessarily mean you have the illness. Look out for flu-like symptoms, such as aches and pains, nasal congestion, runny nose and a sore throat. It’s important to remember that some people may become infected but won’t develop any symptoms or feel unwell.

What precautions can be taken?

Washing your hands with soap and water thoroughly. The NHS also advises to cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when you cough or sneeze; put used tissues in the bin immediately and try to avoid close contact with people who are unwell. Also avoiding touching eyes, nose and mouth unless your hands are clean.

Sources: World Health Organisation and NHS