Linklaters is imposing a 14-day work-from-home restriction on all staff returning from regions that have been affected by the novel coronavirus outbreak.

The latest stipulations apply to all staff globally who have travelled to affected regions either for work or leisure. Staff have been asked to work from home for a full 14 days after their travel.

The new measures will apply to those returning from Northern Italy and mainland China, but not Hong Kong, according to the firm.

It comes as more firms take tougher measures to prevent the spread of the virus, which has resulted in over 2,500 deaths from over 80,000 cases worldwide.

Yesterday, Baker McKenzie became the first law firm to close its London office following a potential coronavirus case after someone at the firm reported feeling unwell upon their return from Northern Italy.

At least ten firms, including Ashurst and Osborne Clarke, have either closed or discouraged the use of their Milan offices after a number of towns south of the city were placed in quarantine following a number of suspected outbreaks.

A spokesperson for Linklaters told Law.com International's UK arm Legal Week: "The health and safety of our people will always be our top priority and is an essential part of our Linklaters culture.

"In line with other firms and businesses, we have asked people who have recently travelled to the most impacted regions, either on business or leisure, to work from home for 14 days. We are monitoring the situation closely and adjusting guidance and support for our people as it evolves."

This article has been updated to remove the suggestion the firm has asked staff to self isolate.