a close up of Mako Vunipola: Mako Vunipola has flown back to the UK via Hong Kong © Getty Mako Vunipola has flown back to the UK via Hong Kong England rugby star Mako Vunipola is in self-isolation due to fears over coronavirus after flying back from Tonga via Hong Kong.

The New Zealand-born prop, whose parents are Tongan, was due to link up with the squad on Monday for a training camp ahead of Saturday's Six Nations clash with Wales.

But the 29-year-old will not join his teammates and will also miss the match after being advised to self-isolate under current NHS guidelines regarding the spread of COVID-19. An RFU spokesman confirmed: "Mako is not in camp on medical grounds. He is not sick, but it is a precaution."

Gallery: How the coronavirus is being handled globally (Photo Services)

The coronavirus outbreak is having a growing impact on the world of sport, with Ireland and Italy's Six Nations fixture this weekend having already been postponed.

Several top-flight Serie A football matches have also been postponed in Italy, which has become home to the biggest outbreak of the new illness in Europe with more than 2,000 cases and 52 deaths.

There remain concerns that the biggest sporting event of all - the Olympic Games, due to take place in Tokyo this summer - could also be cancelled.

UP NEXT
UP NEXT
(Credit: Reuters)

The entertainment industry is also being significantly affected by the outbreak, with music stars cancelling gigs and growing calls for the release of the next James Bond film - No Time To Die - to be delayed.

Its premiere event in China has already been cancelled, but Daniel Craig's final outing as 007 is still due to hit UK cinemas on 2 April.

More follows...

MORE ON CORONAVIRUS:

Google Dublin staff told to work from home (Dublin Live)

Pope tested for coronavirus after suffering cold-like symptoms (Mirror)

Is it safe to receive a package from China? (The Journal)

Microsoft may earn an Affiliate Commission if you purchase something through recommended links in this article
Feedback

Did you find the story interesting?

Like us on Facebook to see similar stories


Send MSN Feedback

We appreciate your input!

Please give an overall site rating: