A CASE of corona virus has been confirmed in the Cotswolds.

Debra Lapthorne, Centre Director for Public Health England South West, said: “Public Health England is contacting people who had close contact with one of the latest confirmed cases of COVID-19. The case is a resident from the Cotswolds area and became infected whilst in Northern Italy. Close contacts will be given health advice about symptoms and emergency contact details to use if they become unwell in the 14 days after contact with the confirmed case. This tried and tested method will ensure we are able to minimise any risk to them and the wider public. If you have not been contacted by Public Health England, you do not need to take any action at this time.”

“ The two cases are linked and both became infected whilst in Northern Italy. Staff from PHE have continued to support St Mary’s Primary School, Tetbury, where one of the cases works."

Sarah Scott, Director of Public Health for Gloucestershire County Council said: “I’d like to reassure people that the risk to the general public remains low and that we are working with our health colleagues to do everything we can to stop the virus spreading and ensure the people of Gloucestershire are protected."

“Good hygiene is the best prevention and 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."

“If you have recently been to one of the affected areas and are feeling unwell, you should phone the NHS 111 helpline for further advice straight away – please don’t go to your doctor or a hospital. There’s lots of advice on how people can protect themselves online at nhs.uk/coronavirus”

As of 29 February at 9am, a total of 10,483 people have been tested in the UK, of which 10,460 were confirmed negative and 23 positive. We advise people to follow the advice being issued by PHE, NHS and local authorities."