Many constituents have contacted me about the Coronavirus pandemic. I fully appreciate the many concerns people will have during this time of uncertainty. Covid-19 represents a serious challenge to public health not only in the United Kingdom but for across the world. I am in regular contact with the Secretary of State for Health and medical professionals on this matter, and I continue to ensure that local concerns are raised.
It is absolutely essential that the Government continues to respond in a matter informed by the medical and scientific experts, and it is important that residents follow the guidance issued. There is a clear plan that we are now working through, and we are now moving to the next phase in that plan. We want to delay the spread of the virus and thereby minimise the suffering. If we delay the peak even by a few weeks, then our NHS will be in a stronger state and our society will be better able to cope. That means deploying defences to the virus at the right time to maximise their effect.
The official medical advice is if you have coronavirus symptoms, however mild – either a new continuous cough or a high temperature – then you should stay at home for at least seven days to protect others and help slow the spread of the disease. It is also essential that we all observe basic precautions, including making sure that they regularly wash their hands. The Government will continue to monitor the situation and will introduce new measures at the right time.
The Government is providing clear updates and guidance at the following website: https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-response, whilst you can receive medical guidance from the NHS website:https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/.
You can also contact the NHS on the 111, but please ensure that you use online resources before contacting NHS phone line.