All the passengers on a British Airways flight from London last week were yesterday ordered to quarantine after eight coronavirus cases were detected among its passengers.

The latest case, a returned resident who flew to the island on October 27, was the only positive test out of 556 results that came back to the ministry today.

The resident was asymptomatic and had a negative pre-arrival test and arrival test.

The newest case has been in quarantine since arrival, along with a close contact of a known case from the same flight.

The island has now had 207 total confirmed positive cases of the illness.

A total of 19 are active – 14 returned residents and five visitors – but none are in hospital.

A ministry spokeswoman said that all passengers from BA 2233 from London had been sent quarantine orders on Wednesday.

Passengers also got a hard copy notification yesterday when they attended their day eight testing.

Kim Wilson, the health minister, said quarantining the passengers until next Tuesday was appropriate because of the number of cases from the flight.

Ms Wilson added: "Although travellers on this flight may have tested negative on arrival and on day four, the incubation period for Covid-19 is up to 14 days, which means that the virus may be undetectable in your body during that time as the virus replicates itself.

"We understand the inconvenience this decision may cause these travellers but ask that they consider the worst case scenario should we not act in this way.

"I ask that all passengers follow the quarantine instructions provided to them and monitor themselves for symptoms as per public health instruction.

"Tomorrow I will provide an update regarding any positives identified during the day eight test for this flight."

Passengers were told to remain in their accommodation after their tests yesterday, and adhere to social distancing – particularly from the vulnerable, and people who had not been on the flight.

They were advised to practice good hygiene, wear masks, and avoid all public spaces, including public transport.

Passengers were also advised to check their temperature and for symptoms twice a day.

Anyone with a temperature above 100.4F or 38C, or who notices symptoms of the illness, should isolate themselves, and contact the Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit.

They were also advised to seek medical care if required.

The spokeswoman said the quarantined passengers would be given a special location for their day 14 tests.

The Covid-19 surveillance and case management team will stay in regular contact with quarantined people.

More information is available online at www.gov.bm/coronavirus-travellers.