What are the NHS guidelines on ibuprofen and paracetamol regarding coronavirus?

The NHS ha issued guidance to the public about whether or not to use paracetamol or ibuprofen to treat the symptoms of coronavirus.

It comes after a number of false stories, posted on social media and chat groups, suggested ibuprofen may be dangerous to take for the virus and cause confusion.

While the country's health chiefs are now advising only to use paracetamol, they say there is “currently no evidence that ibuprofen can make coronavirus (Covid-19) worse".

The UK is experiencing a Covid-19 outbreak along with many countries in Europe - which is now the epicentre of the global pandemic.

The NHS has said it currently has "no strong evidence" that ibuprofen can make Covid-19 worse.

But, they are advising people to take paracetamol to treat the symptoms of coronavirus, unless a doctor has advised it is unsuitable for you.

Those already taking ibuprofen or other 'non-steroidal anti-inflammatory' medication on the advice of a doctor should not stop taking it without consulting a doctor first.

The NHS website previously recommended both paracetamol and ibuprofen, but has since changed its advice.

Both paracetamol and ibuprofen can bring a temperature down and help with flu-like symptoms.

Ibuprofen and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are not suitable for everyone and can cause side-effects - especially for people with asthma, heart and circulatory problems.

There is also some evidence linking ibuprofen to more severe illness from other respiratory infections.

And experts believe the anti-inflammatory properties of the medication may "dampen" the body's immune response.