The English Premier League has suspended all football matches until the weekend of 4-5 April  in an effort to fight the outbreak of COVID-19.  

The unprecedented move comes after numerous teams reported players, coaches and staff with symptoms. While Arsenal's head coach, Mikel Arteta and Chelsea player Callum Hudson-Odoi tested positive for the virus.  

Those on the Arsenal and Chelsea staff who came into contact with those infected will now, like three Leicester City staff who have coronavirus-like symptoms, self-isolate.  

Premier League bosses citing player safety for the decision to suspend games. They are set to review the situation ahead of the weekend of 4-5 April .  

In a statement, the Premier League said: "In this unprecedented situation we are working closely with our clubs, government, the FA and EFL and can reassure everyone the health and welfare of players, staff and supporters are our priority. 

"Despite the challenges, it is the Premier League's aim to reschedule the displaced fixtures, when it is safe to do so." 

Their decisions follow those of Europe's other major leagues.: 

France  

Ligue 1 and Ligue 2 will be suspended until further notice due to the outbreak. The decision came amid pressure from France's players union, which had earlier called for the league games to be postponed. 

The country's Professional Football League said: "We must place the collective interest above everything.”  

Germany  

At the time of publication, the German Bundesliga was set to go ahead this coming weekend, albeit with matches played behind closed doors.

Italy  

In Italy, the European country with the most cases, all sport is suspended, including Serie A until 3 April. 

Juventus defender Daniele Rugani tested positive for COVID-19 earlier in the week, leading to his teammates, including Cristiano Ronaldo and Juve staff being quarantined for two weeks.   

Spain  

La Liga announced on Thursday it is suspending games. Its decision was prompted after a Real Madrid basketball player tested positive for the virus.  

The Dutch Eredivisie, Portugal's Primeira Liga and the U.S.'s Major League Soccer have all also announced suspensions. While there is set to be a meeting of European football's governing body UEFA next week, to discuss whether or not to postpone the Euro 2020 tournament until 2021.