Essex University has confirmed five people tested positive for coronavirus following a small outbreak.

The university said the cases were linked to the elite sports programme and associated junior programme.

It said the students do not live on the Wivenhoe campus and were now self-isolating.

The majority are showing no symptoms.

In total five people test positive for the virus last week.

There have been no more cases confirmed over the weekend.

Read more >>> University says it has taken "all necessary steps" to contain Covid-19 outbreak

Speaking last week registrar Bryn Morris said: “We would like to reassure our community that we have taken all necessary steps to contain this cluster of cases working through our established processes; this includes advising direct contacts to self-isolate in line with NHS guidelines.

“The university is now working with the Essex contact tracing team, alongside colleagues from Essex County Council and Public Health England, to ensure all contacts of cases are identified and given appropriate advice.

“They are also ensuring optimal infection control measures are in place.

“The university also has extensive measures in place including enhanced cleaning regimes, increased hand washing and sanitising facilities, free face coverings and extensive signage to promote social distancing.

“Food packs for students who need to quarantine or self-isolate on our campus are also being provided.”

Dr Ravikumar Balakrishnan, consultant in health protection for Public Health England, East of England, said: “Public Health England is working with the University of Essex and Essex County Council on a small, contained outbreak at the university.

“Public Health England is confident that the university is managing the situation in partnership with agencies and is supporting students who are currently self-isolating.”