Sudden loss of sense of smell or taste has been identified as a possible new coronavirus symptom by specialists in the UK.

Patients experiencing the loss of smell or taste were discovered “in the absence of other symptoms”, said the British Association of Otorhinolarygology (ENT UK).

The finding was based on strong evidence from coronavirus patients in China, Italy and South Korea who had the condition, known as anosmia, according to 9News.

"Evidence from other countries that the entry point for the coronavirus is often in the eyes, nose and throat areas,” ENT UK and the British Rhinological Society said in a joint statement.

"We have also identified a new symptom (loss of sense of smell and taste) that may mean that people without other symptoms but with just the loss of this sense may have to self-isolate - again to reduce the spread of the virus."

The statement also added that these patients may be the “hidden carriers” of the virus and do not meet current guidelines for testing or self isolation.

Currently, the Australian Department of Health guidelines say that fever, cough, sore throat and shortness of breath should trigger self isolation.