The new coronavirus is forcing more top Israeli officials into isolation after the country's health minister, who has had frequent contact with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, tested positive, AP reported.

Health minister Yaakov Litzman and his wife, who also contracted the virus, are in isolation, feel well and are being treated, read a statement from the health ministry.

Shortly after the announcement, the prime minister's office said Netanyahu returned to self-quarantine because of his contact with Litzman.