A NEW emoji to encourage hand washing has been created.

The new emoji has been created by Twitter and can be generated by using the following hashtags:

#handwashing

#SafeHands

#HandWashChallenge

#WashYourHands

The Department of Health and Social Care posted on Twitter: "Share the message.

"Wash your hands more often, for at least 20 seconds each time with soap."

As of 9am on March 14, a total of 37,746 have been tested for coronavirus (Covid-19).

36,606 negative

1140 positive

"Across the UK, 21 patients who tested positive for coronavirus (COVID-19) have sadly died," the department said.