February 24, 2020 - 1208 views
Although the outbreak of coronavirus in China and the number of countries affected by imported cases continues to increase, the risk to the public remains moderate.
To date, in Wales, assessment and testing for over 200 individuals has occurred, all who were negative.
Nonetheless, Health and Social Care, Wales is ensuring that should this virus spread in Wales plans for a response are robust and realistic. In support of this, Welsh Government is working with the chief executive of NHS Wales and set up a Health and Social Services Planning and Response Group.
The remit of this group will be to provide strategic co-ordination and support to NHS Wales and Social Services through the phases of the coronavirus infection.
It will provide an opportunity for partners to share national information, including latest risk assessment, to examine and address sector concerns and to identify appropriate contingency measures going forward.
The advice for travellers remains unchanged - all travellers who develop flu-like symptoms however mild, (these symptoms could be a fever, a cough, or difficulty breathing) within 14 days of returning from mainland China, Thailand, Japan, Republic of Korea, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Singapore, Malaysia or Macau, should self-isolate at home immediately and call NHS Direct Wales or 111, if available in their area.
The key message is not to go to your GP surgery, local pharmacy or hospital for advice, but to phone for support.
One important difference to note is that those that have travelled from Wuhan and Hubei province should self-isolate for 14 days, even if they do not have symptoms, due to the increased risk from that area.
The public can help to lessen the chances of spreading any respiratory virus. The advice is to catch it, bin it, kill it and wash your hands.
