There is a lot of information being shared online from untrustworthy sources which are based on opinion more than fact.
It is really important that we only share information from trusted sources such as the NHS, Public Health England, Department of Health and Social Care and other government channels, to help keep everyone informed on what to do and when to do it.
As of yesterday evening (16 March) the government published updates to their approach to dealing with the Coronavirus pandemic, and it is really important that we all follow their guidance:
❗️ Avoid gatherings and crowded places, such as pubs, clubs and theatres
❗ Work from home if you can
❗ Stay at home for 14 days if one person in any household has a persistent cough or fever
❗ If self isolating due to someone in your home displaying symptoms, avoid leaving the house even to buy food or essentials. You can leave the house to exercise, but maintain a safe distance from others
❗ Stop all "unnecessary" visits to friends and relatives in care homes
❗ Only use the NHS "where we really need to" - Use the NHS website where possible
❗ By next weekend, those with the most serious health conditions must be "largely shielded from social contact for around 12 weeks"
The Government has also stated that the following groups of people should avoid social contact where possible:
🔺 People over the age of 70
🔺 Other adults who would normally be advised to have the flu vaccine (such as those with chronic diseases)
and
🔺 Pregnant women
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Stay at home for 7 days if you have either:
▪️ a high temperature – you feel hot to touch on your chest or back
or
▪️ a new, continuous cough – this means you've started coughing repeatedly
if you live with other people, they should stay at home for 14 days from the day the first person got symptoms.
If you live with someone who is 70 or over, has a long-term condition, is pregnant or has a weakened immune system, try to find somewhere else for them to stay for 14 days.
If you have to stay at home together, try to keep away from each other as much as possible.
They have also shared the following advice on how to avoid catching or spreading #coronavirus:
DO
✔️ wash your hands with soap and water often – do this for at least 20 seconds
✔️ always wash your hands when you get home or into work
✔️ use hand sanitiser gel if soap and water are not available
✔️ cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when you cough or sneeze
✔️ put used tissues in the bin immediately and wash your hands afterwards
✔️ try to avoid close contact with people who are unwell
DON'T
❌ touch your eyes, nose or mouth if your hands are not clean
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The latest updates and guidance can be found at the following websites:
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/
https://www.gov.uk/gove…/organisations/public-health-england
https://www.gov.uk/…/coronavirus-covid-19-uk-government-res…
Please take care of yourself and others
Contact the press office on communications@cheltenham.gov.uk | 0800 408 0000