Public Health Wales statement on Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak
This statement will be updated daily at 2pm
Statement: Thursday 12 November 2020
Dr Eleri Davies,
Incident Director for the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak response at
Public Health Wales, said:
“Public Health Wales strongly
advises the public to take personal responsibility for their actions and to
ensure that we are all doing as much as possible to limit the transmission of
Coronavirus.
“As we approach the
first weekend since the fire-break restrictions have been lifted, we would
remind everyone that Coronavirus is still active in our communities, and
therefore this does not mean a return to normality.
“We ask the public to
observe the new regulations and to limit their contact with other people as
much as possible so that we all work together to bring the numbers of positive
cases down.
“This means staying
out of other people’s homes, limiting the times and the numbers of people that
you meet, maintaining social distancing and hand hygiene, working from home if
you can, and self-isolating if you show symptoms of coronavirus or are asked to
do so by contact tracers.
“It is extremely
important that we only make essential journeys, maintain strict social
distancing with those we don’t live with, and reduce the number of people that
we meet. All of these actions will help
to break the chains of transmission, reduce the spread of the virus, and keep people
safe.
“We understand that
people will want to carry on with their Christmas shopping now the fire-break
has ended and so we would suggest to try to visit shops during off-peak times,
to always maintain social distancing and to wear a face covering if you can.
Options such as ‘click and collect’ or online purchasing may also be something
to consider.
“This Saturday is
Diwali, a festival which is celebrated by large numbers of people from India
and of Indian heritage. We would ask those who are celebrating to do so safely,
within your own household, and remember the regulations if you go out. If you choose to use fireworks, please take
care and follow the fireworks code to avoid injury. We wish everyone celebrating a happy Diwali.
“Urgent action has
been taken following reports from health authorities in Denmark that widespread
outbreaks of Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) has been found in mink farms, with
subsequent spread of a mink-variant virus to the local community.
“Denmark was removed
from the UK Coronavirus travel corridor list on Friday 6 November. Any
travellers returning to the UK will now be required to self-isolate for 14 days
according to the national guidance and legislation https://www.gov.uk/uk-border-control/self-isolating-when-you-arrive.
“This decision has
been taken as a precautionary measure and will prevent risk to Wales and the UK
from this new strain. Public Health Wales will be in touch with Welsh residents
who have been in Denmark in the past 14 days to explain that they and their
households are required to self-isolate.
“We would also advise
all members of the public with pet mink or ferrets to avoid contact with them
while symptomatic with any COVID symptoms.
“We recognise that many people may be finding
life more challenging, resulting in difficulties with mental health. There are
many agencies which provide help and support, including the C.A.L.L. helpline
on 0800 132 737, which will refer callers to the most appropriate organisation
according to their needs.
“If you are in severe
mental distress or are having suicidal thoughts, please contact Samaritans
Cymru free on 116 123.
“More information
about the new rules is available at the Welsh Government website.
“It is still important
to look after your health, and you can you continue to attend appointments and
seek help for urgent medical issues.
“Attending a booked
NHS flu vaccination appointment and any of Public Health Wales’ screening clinics is a legitimate
reason to travel during the firebreak.
“NHS Wales is still
here to help you if you need care, and it’s important you continue to attend
appointments and seek help for urgent medical issues. You can leave your home
to access local health services, including your GP surgery, dentist,
optometrist or other health service.
“You should phone
beforehand and follow any guidance your local surgery, dentist, optometrist or
health service has put in place to protect you and staff, including the need to
keep 2m away from other patients.
“It’s especially
important to look after our mental health and wellbeing at this time. You can find sources of advice and guidance
on our website if you need some help
or are worried about a loved one.
“If you or a member of
your household develop symptoms of the Coronavirus, such as a cough, fever or
change in sense of taste or smell, you must self-isolate immediately and book a
free Coronavirus test at www.gov.uk/get-coronavirus-test or by calling 119.
“Helpful advice and
support is available via the NHS COVID-19 app. As well as providing
alerts if you have been in contact with someone with Coronavirus, the app will
also tell you the current risk level in your area.
“Information about the
symptoms of Coronavirus is available on the Public Health Wales website, or via
the NHS 111 Wales symptom checker.
Datganiad: Dydd Iau 12 Tachwedd
I ddilyn