Connecticut DOCTOR is arrested for deliberately coughing on his co-workers and ignoring social distancing while treating patients during coronavirus pandemic

A Connecticut physician has been arrested after he allegedly deliberately coughed on his co-workers.

Dr Cory Edgar, an assistant professor of orthopedic surgery at UConn Health, was charged with breach of peace on Thursday morning.

UConn Health spokeswoman Jennifer Walker told DailyMail.com that witnesses told police Dr Edgar 'intentionally coughed on two other medical employees at the health center in close proximity.' 

The witnesses added that they believe the doctor 'was purposely disregarding space and safety concerns involving the Coronavirus pandemic.'  

Police arrived on the scene around 10am and issued Dr Edgar his summons.

It's not immediately clear if the doctor had ever behaved this way in the workplace before or if his actions have been a concern in the past. 

Walker added that Dr Edgar 'has confirmed that he is in excellent health and does not to his knowledge have COVID-19.' 

'UConn Health is aware of the situation. We take all such allegations seriously and the matter is currently under review,' a statement read.

'We can also state that any UConn Health employee with an indication of illness is asked to stay home, and during this pandemic all employees are screened for symptoms prior to entering the premises.'

This is not the first time someone has been arrested for similar actions.

In Connecticut, a man turned to a state trooper and coughed before claiming he had the novel coronavirus, according to the Providence Journal. 

Meanwhile, in New Jersey, a man was charged on Sunday with making a terroristic threat after he intentionally coughed close to a supermarket worker.

And another New Jersey man was charged with harassment and disorderly conduct by police for trying to cough on them while he was being arrested on a charge of domestic violence, the Hartford Courant reported.

Worldwide, more than 550,000 cases have been confirmed and more than 25,000 people have died.

Across the US, there are more confirmed cases than any country with 92,000 infections and around 1,300 deaths.     

In Connecticut, where the incident, occurred there are 1,012 cases and 21 deaths so far - but it is believed these figures will rise as more testing occurs.