Coronavirus – Two prison workers at same jail die after suffering virus symptoms sparking fears of outbreak behind bars

The tragic news will fuel fears the deadly disease could spread out of control through Britain's jails.

It was announced earlier today that up to 4,000 "low risk" criminals are to be released early in a bid to stop coronavirus tearing through prisons.

Inmates within two months of their release date will now be temporarily back on the streets.

The Government say it will help boost the NHS by avoiding thousands of prisoners getting infected.

They explained lags are currently sharing cells, making it an easy environment for the disease to spread.

Lord Chancellor and Justice Secretary Robert Buckland QC MP said: “This Government is committed to ensuring that justice is served to those who break the law.

“But this is an unprecedented situation because if Coronavirus takes hold in our prisons, the NHS could be overwhelmed and more lives put at risk.

“All prisoners will face a tough risk assessment and must comply with strict conditions, including an electronic tag, while they are closely monitored. Those that do not will be recalled to prison.”

Today, a five-year-old child became the UK's youngest coronavirus victim after 708 more people died on the deadliest day yet - bringing the total to 4,353.

Previously, Britain's youngest coronavirus victim was ";very healthy" 13-year-old Ismail Mohamed Abdulwahab, who died in hospital in London on Monday.

The NHS confirmed the oldest patient who died in 24 hours was aged 104 and 40 of the latest virus victims had no existing medical issues.

Meanwhile, positive coronavirus cases have today risen from 38,168 to 41,903, the Department of Health revealed.