Below is a joint statement from Essex County Council and Public Health England regarding a recent update on Coronavirus.
Dr. David Edwards, Consultant in Health Protection, Public Health England East, said:
“Public Health England is contacting people who had close contact with a confirmed case of COVID-19 who is an Essex resident. We’re working closely with local NHS colleagues as well as Essex County Council to manage the situation and help reduce the risk of further cases.
“Close contacts will be given health advice about symptoms and emergency contact details to use if they become unwell in the 14 days after contact with the confirmed case. This tried and tested method will ensure we are able to minimise any risk to them and the wider public.”
Essex County Council’s Director of Wellbeing, Public Health and Communities, Mike Gogarty said:
“This new cases of coronavirus is nothing unexpected. We fully anticipate an increase in numbers which is why our services have planned for, and are ready, for this situation.
“I’d like to reassure people that the risk to the general public remains low and Essex County Council is working with health colleagues to do everything we can to stop the virus spreading and ensure the people of Essex are protected.
“Current evidence indicates that most cases appear to be mild, with patients experiencing flu-like symptoms. Older residents or those with weakened immune systems or long-term conditions may experience more severe symptoms, which is why it is important to help protect ourselves and each other.
“Following Government guidance to take basic hygiene precautions remains the best way of significantly reducing the changes of spreading any virus: sneeze or cough into a tissue, bin it, wash your hands frequently and don’t touch your face unless you’ve just washed your hands. We should do this all day every day as we should for flu.
“Good regular cleaning with normal detergent of surfaces people touch regularly or may cough onto, like door handles and lift buttons, is also sensible. People should log onto https://gov.uk/coronavirus for the latest advice and information.”
For more information and advice on coronavirus (COVID-19), visit Public Health England website or NHS website. Details on testing are published daily at 14:00 and includes a breakdown of negative and positive tests – view here.