The NHS is extremely well prepared for outbreaks of new infectious diseases. The NHS has put in place measures to ensure the safety of all patients and NHS staff while also ensuring services are available to the public as normal.
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The risk to the general public is moderate.
Please do not book a GP appointment or attend your GP Practice if you have a concern about whether you have been affected by coronavirus (either through travel or if you have been in close contact with a confirmed case of coronavirus).
Call 111 (all Wales coronavirus service) to find out what to do next. Information and advice on coronavirus is also available on the Public Health Wales website. Please check the information on the website before you decide whether you need to dial 111.
This applies to the following:
People who have returned from Category 1 specified countries/areas in the last 14 days should self-isolate. This includes avoiding attending an education setting or work until 14 days after they return.
People who have returned from Category 2 specified countries/areas in the last 14 days, are advised to stay at home if they develop symptoms. All other pupils or students and staff should continue to attend school or university, including their siblings attending the same or a different school (unless advised not to by public health officials).
People who have been in close contact with someone with confirmed coronavirus.
Do not go to a GP surgery, community pharmacy or hospital. Stay indoors and avoid close contact with other people.
Call 111 (all Wales coronavirus service) to find out what to do next. Information and advice on coronavirus is also available on the Public Health Wales website. Please check the information on the website before you decide whether you need to dial 111.
Like the common cold, coronavirus infection usually occurs through close contact with a person with novel coronavirus via cough and sneezes or hand contact. A person can also be infected by touching contaminated surfaces if they do not wash their hands.
Testing of suspected coronavirus cases is carried out in line with strict regulations. This means that suspected cases are kept in isolation, away from public areas and returned home also in isolation. Any equipment that come into contact with suspected cases are thoroughly cleaned as appropriate. Specific guidance has also been shared with NHS staff to help safeguard them and others. Patients can be reassured that their safety is a top priority, and are encouraged to attend all appointments as usual.
Everyone is being reminded to follow Public Health Wales advice to:
• Always carry tissues with you and use them to catch your cough or sneeze. Then bin the tissue, and wash your hands, or use a sanitiser gel.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after using public transport. Use a sanitiser gel if soap and water are not available.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid close contact with people who are unwell.
Further information is available on https://phw.nhs.wales/coronavirus/