Health officials offer reassurance and advice after the first coronavirus case was confirmed in Leicestershire

They say that the risk to the general public stiill remains low
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Health officials are reassuring people and asking them to continue folllowing hygiene advice after the first coronavirus case was confirmed in Leicestershire.

It is believed that the person is a Loughborough University student and Public Health England is now contacting people who have had contact with the person.

Veteran health campaigner Cllr Phil Knowles, leader of the Liberal Democrats on Harborough District Council, told the Harborough Mail: “This is an evolving situation.

Health officials are reassuring people and asking them to continue folllowing hygiene adviceafter the first coronavirus case was confirmed in Leicestershire.Health officials are reassuring people and asking them to continue folllowing hygiene adviceafter the first coronavirus case was confirmed in Leicestershire.
Health officials are reassuring people and asking them to continue folllowing hygiene adviceafter the first coronavirus case was confirmed in Leicestershire.

“The important thing is to follow closely the advice from the medical authorities particularly with regard to actions if one is feeling unwell, hand washing and procedures when coughing and sneezing, etc.”

Dr Fu-Meng Khaw, centre director, Public Health England East Midlands, said: “Public Health England is contacting people who had close contact with one of the latest confirmed cases of COVID-19 who is a resident of Leicestershire.

“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.”

Mike Sandys, director of public health for Leicestershire County Council, said they are working flat out to stop the virus spreading as they strive to keep people safe across the county.

Mr Sandys said: “I’d like to reassure people that the risk to the general public remains low.

“The local authority is working with health colleagues to do everything we can to stop the virus spreading and ensure the people of Leicestershire are protected.”

He called on people to practice “good hygiene” and to wash their hands “regularly” in a bid to beat the bug.

“Good hygiene is the best prevention.

“There are some simple steps you can take to protect you and your family by washing your hands regularly and thoroughly and if you cough, cover your mouth and nose with a tissue,” said Mr Sandys.

He urged anyone feeling ill to call the NHS coronavirus hotline – and not to go to see their doctor or to hospital.

“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,” stressed Mr Sandys.

“There’s lots of advice on how people can protect themselves online at www.nhs.uk/coronavirus.”