Health Secretary Sajid Javid has apologised after saying people should no longer "cower" from coronavirus.

He made the comments in a tweet announcing he had made a "full recovery" from Covid, a week after testing positive.

In a new tweet, the health secretary also said he had deleted his earlier post, adding: "Like many, I have lost loved ones to this awful virus and would never minimise its impact.".

The tweet on Saturday said: "Full recovery from Covid a week after testing positive.

Mr Javid replaced Mr Hancock as health secretary last month after his predecessor stood down.

He tested positive for Covid on 17 July and spent the last week in self-isolation.

The Covid-19 Bereaved Families for Justice group said Mr Javid was right to apologise?

Lib Dem health spokeswoman Munira Wilson said Mr Javid's tweet was "outrageous" and his "careless words have insulted every man, woman and child who has followed the rules and stayed at home to protect others".

Profile: Sajid Javid?

Health secretary tests positive for Covid.

Javid apologises for 'cower' Covid remark7