US President Donald Trump has declared the coronavirus outbreak is a national emergency – as he boosts funding to fight COVID-19.

The move will free up a total of $50bn (£40.5bn) for state and local governments to try to combat the spread of the pandemic.

More than 30 people in America have died after contracting COVID-19, the disease caused by coronavirus, and there have been over 1,200 infections in 46 states.

Speaking at the White House, Mr Trump said he was asking hospitals to activate their emergency preparedness plans, and will give doctors “flexibility” in treating patients, as he waived federal regulations and laws.

He also said he expected that up to half a million extra coronavirus tests will be available early next week, as he announced a public-private partnership to increase the national capabilities.

He said a Google website will help the American public work out if they need to take the test, and what drive-through testing options are available to them, including in supermarket car parks.

By declaring the pandemic an emergency, the president has invoked a law known as the Stafford Act, which was originally introduced in 1988.

It allows the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) – part of the Department of Homeland Security – to assist state and local governments during “natural catastrophes” and co-ordinate the nation’s response.

FEMA controls tens of billions of dollars in federal disaster relief funding which could be used for measures including helping to build medical facilities and transport patients.

It comes as the speaker in House of Representatives, Nancy Pelosi, announced the Democrat-controlled House would approve a coronavirus aid package.

The plan would provide free coronavirus testing and two weeks of paid sick and family leave for those affected by the disease, Ms Pelosi said.

But Mr Trump has not backed the package, making its outcome uncertain in Congress.

Ms Pelosi does not need support from the Republicans to pass legislation in the Democrat-majority House.

But it would probably not get far in the Republican-controlled Senate without bipartisan support.

The House aid package builds on an emergency $8.3bn measure approved last week.

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