Message of reassurance from Councillor David Jones, Leader of Bury Council - Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Message of reassurance from Councillor David Jones, Leader of Bury Council - Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Three residents from Bury have now tested positive for Coronavirus (COVID-19). The first Bury case was confirmed on 1 March 2020 after returning from Italy. Following their return to the UK this individual self-isolated and is now being cared for as a matter of precaution at one of the national specialist NHS infection centres.

As a result of contact tracing, we know that the two new Bury cases announced today are known contacts of the previously confirmed case from Bury.

The news of cases in Bury may be unsettling and we understand many people may be feeling worried. It’s important that we remain level headed about the virus and that you know what’s being done to keep everyone safe.

We’d like to reassure people that the risk to the general public remains low and the majority of cases are mild. Bury Council is working with health colleagues to do everything we can to contain the virus and ensure the people of Bury are protected.

Public Health England is leading on control measures and they will be contacting any individuals who may have a slight chance of being affected. These people will be given advice on what to do if they are concerned. This tried and tested method will ensure that any risk to them is minimised and the wider public is protected.

We are monitoring the situation closely and following all the advice from Public Health England. You can read this information for yourself on the NHS website. As the situation develops, we’ll be keeping you informed about what it means for Bury. You can check the latest local information at our website.

We all want to look after our own health and wellbeing, and the health of the people we care about. That’s why we’re asking everyone to take simple, common-sense steps to prevent the spread of the virus. Good hygiene is the best prevention you can take to protect yourself and your family, by washing your hands regularly and thoroughly. If you cough or sneeze, cover your mouth and nose with a tissue, throw it away and wash your hands.

If you have recently been to one of the affected countries and are feeling unwell, you should phone the NHS 111 helpline for further advice straight away – please don’t go to your Doctor’s surgery. There’s lots of advice from the NHS on how people can protect themselves at the NHS website.

Thank you to our dedicated health and care professionals at Bury Council and the NHS who are working to ensure that our borough can continue to work as usual. We’d also like to offer our best wishes to the people affected.