TWO surgeries in north Essex were shut in connection with potential coronavirus scares.

Mersea Island Medical Practice was shut to patients today due to “infection control” at the premises.

An email was sent to parents of children at Mersea Island School advising them of the situation.

It stated: “We have been informed the local doctor’s surgery is closed today as a precautionary measure regarding the coronavirus but nothing has been confirmed.

“Mrs Wright has contacted Public Health Protection Team and has been given immediate reassurance there is not any risk to the school.

“Please rest assured if there were any changes we would notify you immediately.”

One resident called The Gazette to say they had been told to rearrange appointments.

They said: “The receptionist said nothing has been confirmed but they are having the surgery deep cleaned for safety.”

The Rowhedge Practice, which is part of the same group as Mersea’s surgery, confirmed on its website it had also been closed on Tuesday due to a “potential case of coronavirus”.

“Due to a potential case of coronavirus presenting at the surgery the Rowhedge Practice will be closed until further notice,” a spokesman said.

“We are hoping to have a normal service by Wednesday.”

There is no indication anyone has tested positive for the virus.

North East Essex Clinical Commissioning Group was contacted but said it could not comment on potential coronavirus cases.

The Department of Health and Social Care did not respond to The Gazette’s requests for comment.

A third surgery in mid Essex also closed on Tuesday, again as a precaution.

Mount Chambers surgery, in Coggeshall Road, Braintree, was closed for a deep clean due to a “possible case of coronavirus”.

A spokesman for the Mid Essex Clinical Commissioning Group apologised to patients affected by the closure but insisted the decision was made to ensure the safety of everyone at the surgery.

The spokesman added: “The practice reopened and patients will be advised if their appointment needs to be rearranged.

“We apologise for any inconvenience that may have been caused.

“Safety is our priority and we have been working with public health teams to make sure there is no risk to staff and patients.”

There have been 13 confirmed cases of coronavirus in the UK so far.

Those worried about the condition are advised to contact 111 before seeking medical attention at their doctors or nearest hospital.