You may have seen in local news that we’ve now had one confirmed case in the Cotswolds so this is a brief update to ensure people are accessing the latest advice and information. Public Health England, the county council and local NHS colleagues are working closely together to respond.

One of the recently confirmed UK cases is a resident from the Cotswolds who became infected whilst in Northern Italy. They are getting all necessary support from relevant agencies. Public Health England is currently contacting people who may have had close contact, they will be given health advice about symptoms and emergency contact details to use if they become unwell in the 14 days after they had contact with the confirmed case. This tried and tested method will ensure that any risk to them is minimised and the wider public is protected.

Based on current evidence, Coronavirus COVID-19 presents with flu-like symptoms including a fever, a cough, or difficulty breathing. The current evidence is that most cases appear to be mild.

It’s important to remain calm but vigilant and take necessary steps. The best action you can take is to ensure we continue to have good personal and hand hygiene, including:

* Giving your hands a good wash (30 seconds, thoroughly) with soap and water is best (but hand gels can be a good substitute).
* Maintaining personal hygiene when coughing or sneezing is also important – use a tissue rather your hands and then throw it away.

Anyone who is concerned about their health symptoms is advised to follow the advice about what to do on the Government’s website at https://www.gov.uk/…/coronavirus-covid-19-information-for-t…

The advice for anyone who is experiencing a cough or fever or shortness of breath, is to stay indoors and call NHS 111, even if symptoms are mild. DO NOT turn up at your GP or other health services (e.g. hospital) unless told to by NHS 111.

If you have any foreign trips planned, follow the Foreign and Commonwealth Office advice.

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