Windsor MP Adam Afriyie talks about the potential 'gamechanger' on the cards to fight back against coronavirus. He writes:

The challenges of a global pandemic are sobering and many people are rightly concerned. But there are things that we can do to protect ourselves, and to help each other.

Last week the Prime Minister announced that the UK is on track to turn the tide – if we follow the scientific advice.

Across the country people are taking the necessary steps to help prevent the spread, and already our response is making a difference.

If we do this together we will save many thousands of lives.

We will soon be able to carry out 25,000 tests for COVID-19 each day. Knowing where the virus is means we can target our response, protect the vulnerable and provide the support they need.

As I write we have started negotiations to buy an antibody test, to tell us if someone has recovered from the virus.

This could be a gamechanger – helping to track the path of the virus and allowing those of us who have recovered to go back to work – hastening the return to normality.

However, this will take some time. Until then we must follow the advice of experts. Now is the time for everyone to stop non-essential contact with others and stop all unnecessary travel.

Work from home if you can.

We will protect people who face difficulties through no fault of their own. We have announced expansions in eligibility for welfare support; a £500 million hardship fund; and £330 billion will soon be made available in government backed loans to help businesses through this crisis and pay wage

bills.

By the time this goes to print more measures will have been announced.

We will do whatever it takes, and nobody will be penalised for doing the right thing.

We will beat it together.

Stay safe, and for the most up to date advice, please head to gov.uk