'Stay calm and don't panic buy' - coronavirus advice from Harborough health officials and local leaders

Political leaders and health chiefs are urging people across Harborough not to panic as the coronavirus arrived in Leicestershire.

They issued the rallying call as it emerged that two people living in Leicestershire have been confirmed with the virus.

In a third local case, a student at Loughborough University has also caught the coronavirus – but doesn’t actually live in Leicestershire.

Health officials are now trying to track down anyone who’s come into contact with the victims.

Cllr Phil King, leader of Harborough District Council, told the Harborough Mail: “I’m simply telling people to be sensible and responsible – there’s no need to panic.

“The coronavirus is obviously a real concern and we shouldn’t be complacent.

“But if we all follow the chief medical officer’s advice then we can all work to combat this threat together.”

Cllr King added: “We are prepared to tackle this virus both locally and nationally.

“We also have civil contingency plans to implement across Harborough if needs be.”

The Conservative councillor also called on people to act sensibly after reports Sainsbury’s superstore in Market Harborough was stripped of toilet paper at the weekend.

“There’s certainly no need to indulge in panic buying.

“That’s a total over-reaction – no-one needs 20 tons of toilet rolls,” insisted Cllr King.

“Let’s all work together to stop the coronavirus spreading and becoming as severe as it is elsewhere.”

He was backed up by Harborough MP Neil O’Brien, who said: “The old Second World War maxim to keep calm and carry on has got to be the message here.

“We’ve all got to be sensible and put this threat in perspective – there’s no need to panic.

“There could well be a case of coronavirus appearing in or around Market Harborough and people just have to get used to that.”

Mr O’Brien added: “We are probably still a way off before this virus peaks.

“People might freak out because numbers will go up but there’s absolutely no need to.

“The critical thing is to wash your hands and take sensible hygiene precautions.

“And please do not just turn up at your local surgery or hospital if you suspect you have this virus.

“Call the special NHS 111 hotline immediately.

“The pressure on our health service is overwhelming at times as it is without making it worse.”

Cllr Phil Knowles, leader of the Liberal Democrats on Harborough District Council, said: “The key thing is this coronavirus situation is evolving.

“No one knows where it’s going.

“It’s crucial that we follow the official advice – especially over washing your hands - and do not over react.”

The veteran Harborough health campaigner added: “Just pick up the phone if you think you may have the coronavirus.

“Don’t go to work or present yourself at your local medical centre or hospital.

“Harborough is a very caring community and I’m sure people across the district will follow all the advice we are being given.”

Julie Simpson, practice manager at Market Harborough Medical Centre, said: “We are telling our patients just to use their common sense.

“It’s good old straightforward advice – coughs and sneezes spread diseases.

“Don’t touch your ears, nose or mouth.

“We’ve not had anyone turn up here yet fearing they’ve got coronavirus.

“But we have had a lot of people phoning us for advice.”

She urged people who would like to find out more to visit the NHS coronavirus website here: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/“It’s taking up to 45 minutes to get through on the NHS hotline so it might be best to go online,” said Julie.

“Stay at home if you suspect at all that you have got the symptoms.

“But please let us know that you are self-isolating so we can keep a record.”

Mike Sandys, director of Public Health for Leicestershire County Council, said they are battling to stop the virus spreading 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 encouraged people to practice “good hygiene” and 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,” insisted Mr Sandys.

He told 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.”

A spokeswoman for Leicestershire Local Education Authority said they would decide nearer the time if this summer’s A-levels and GCSE exams have to be delayed.