Northumbria University says more than 700 students test positive

Northumbria University has announced that more than 700 students have tested positive for coronavirus on Friday afternoon.

All 770 university students are now self-isolating for 14 -days and their flatmates have been told to get tested “as soon as possible.”

A university spokesperson confirmed, “As of Friday 2 October, we can confirm that we are aware of 770 Northumbria University students who have tested positive for COVID-19, of whom 78 are symptomatic.

“These students are all now self-isolating.

“Their flatmates and any close contacts are also self-isolating for 14 days in line with government guidance and have been advised to contact NHS119 to book a test as soon as possible should symptoms appear.”

This comes after scientific experts warned on Friday that universities are “human petri dishes” for spreading coronavirus as students have travelled from all parts of the UK and are sharing accommodation.

The scientists warned that coronavirus infections are currently the highest amongst 17 to 24-year olds and more than 45 universities are experiencing outbreaks.