Local NHS ‘Prepared’ For Coronavirus Cases

With cases of Coronavirus now confirmed in both Leicestershire and Northamptonshire, bosses at Market Harborough Medical Centre say they are prepared for COVID-19 here, too.

Two cases were confirmed in Leicestershire over the weekend and Public Health England is now contacting people who have had contact with them.

The number of cases in Northamptonshire rose to four over the weekend, with two members of the same family, who also have just returned from Italy, diagnosed.

Mike Sandys, director of public health for Leicestershire County Council, said: “I want to re-assure people that, although a second case of coronavirus has now been confirmed in the county, the risk to the general public remains low.

“We are working closely with colleagues in health to do everything we can to stop the virus spreading and ensure the people of Leicestershire are protected.

“Good hygiene is the best prevention and there are some simple steps you can take to protect you and your family. These include washing your hands regularly and thoroughly and if you cough, cover your mouth and nose with a tissue.

“If you have recently been to one of the affected areas and are feeling unwell, you should use the NHS 111 online coronavirus service or call NHS 111 for further advice straight away  – please don’t go to your doctor or a hospital. There’s lots of advice on how people can protect themselves online at www.nhs.uk/coronavirus .”

Julie Simpson, Practice manager for the Market Harborough and Husbands Bosworth partnership, that operate Market Harborough Medical Centre, is asking patients who think they may have the virus not to go to their local surgery – as that could spread the infection:

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