Germany's Federal Minister of Health Jens Spahn tested positive for coronavirus, local media reported on Wednesday.

The ministry said that Spahn, who has so far only exhibited "cold-like symptoms", has gone into immediate quarantine.

It added that all persons who had come in contact with the 40-year-old had been notified.

Spahn has been a key figure in Germany's response to the pandemic but became a target of attacks by people who deny the existence of the virus.

Despite Germany facing a resurgence in coronavirus cases, Spahn had previously indicated that the government will seek to avoid a second lockdown.

More to follow...

(With input from agencies)