The latest series began on Feb. 6, so the contestants had no idea how the virus has spread across Europe, sending a number of countries like Italy and Spain into lockdown.

But last night, the housemates were given an update live on air, and told they would be able to speak to their families to put their minds at ease.

Host Jochen Schropp and “Big Brother” resident physician Dr. Andreas Kaniewski sat behind a glass screen to give the housemates the news.

Schropp said: “There is currently a lot going on in world events since you entered the house.

“We’d like to inform you as to why we’re here and why we’re behind a glass screen.”

As the camera panned around the seating area, the housemates fell into stunned silence, concern and worry etched on their faces as Schropp spoke.

He continued: “COVID-19 has basically spread across the world in recent days, triggering a global pandemic. This is a disease similar to the flu, and is mainly dangerous for older people.”

While the mood was understandably serious, a couple of housemates still managed a smile when Schropp told them they would be speaking to their loved ones.

He said: “We’re going to allow you to speak to your families so you can rest easy.

“And you can communicate with them as they are all okay.”

German broadcaster Sat.1 previously said in a statement the housemates would be told about coronavirus if it was deemed necessary.

Speaking to German publication Süddeutsche Zeitung, the network said: “Of course, the residents will be informed if there is reason to do so. Which information is given to the residents from outside is also decided in exchange with the relatives.”

The current series of “Big Brother Germany” still has nine weeks left to run.

The episode comes as Germany announced a travel ban to and from non-EU countries, as it reached 7,000 confirmed cases of coronavirus and 14 deaths.

Chancellor Angela Merkel confirmed that playgrounds and non-essential shops would close, while religious gatherings at churches, synagogues and mosques would be banned to try to contain the spread.