Second case of coronavirus in Leicestershire

It’s been revealed by Public Health England (PHE) and Leicestershire County Council.

Public Health England, the county council and local NHS are working together in Leicestershire to fight the dangerous bug, they said.

Public Health England is now contacting people who may have had close contact with the second confirmed case.

Close contacts 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.

The tried and tested method will ensure that any risk to them is minimised and the wider public is protected, said Public Health England.

The first case of a Leicestershire resident being tested positive for coronavirus was announced on Saturday March 7.

In a third local case it’s also been confirmed that a student at Loughborough University has been hit by the coronavirus.

But they don’t actually live in Leicestershire.

Mike Sandys, director of public health for the county council, said: “I want to reassure 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.”

He added: “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 .”

There are four confirmed cases of coronavirus in Northamptonshire.