LATEST Public Health England figures released today show there are now seven confirmed cases of Coronavirus in Warrington.
The increase from four comes after the first reported death in Warrington last Thursday involving a 59-year-old man with underlying health issues.
Nationally there are now 6,650 recorded cases, including 967 today and 335 deaths. A total of 135 patients have so far recovered.
But the fgures are likely to be only the tip of the inceberg with many people self isolating at home and going untested.
All schools in the UK have now closed, except for vulnerable pupils or children of key workers.
Restaurants, Cafes, bars, leisure centres and other social venues have also closed along with many businesses.
Earlier today Warrington Council’s Chief executive Steven Broomhead and Council leader Russ Bowden described the town’s response to the pandemic as “magnificent.”
In a joint statement they said: “The town’s response to the pandemic has been magnificent. The messages of “take care, look after yourself and others and stay safe“ are now embedded in our conversations and actions. There’s a strong feeling of working together to reduce the impact of the virus.
“It’s not been easy as the social distancing measures introduced by government are disruptive to daily life but as a town we are adjusting well. There have been many acts of kindness and a desire to reach out to help others. The voluntary and charitable sectors are working closely with the Council/NHS to offer support to our senior and/or vulnerable residents. Your Herculean efforts have been inspirational.
“There are some challenges particularly for our local economy and to protect jobs. We will be working vigorously to ensure that the welcome government support measures are delivered quickly and effectively. As they say, this Is a marathon, not a sprint. We have made a great start to overcome this situation together.”
The council has also decided to keep all public parks open for the time being.
Meanwhile Warrington & Halton Teaching Hospitals are imposing further visitor restrictions from tomorrow, Tuesday 24, to ensure the safety of patients and staff and in line with Government guidance.
Visiting times for most wards will remain at 4pm and 7pm daily however only one visitor per patient per day will be allowed. No children under 16 years will be permitted on any ward unless in exceptional circumstances and with prior arrangement with the nurse in charge. There are some specific concessions to this including:
*Relatives of those nearing end of life will be supported to visit their loved ones, bespoke arrangements will be made by the nurse in charge
*Patients on Intensive Care Unit only one visitor per patient per day will be permitted and visiting will be 2-4pm and 5-7pm daily, visits outside this will be on a case by case basis in discussion with ICU staff
*Maternity One birth partner only, visiting at any time
*Children’s and Neonatal wards one Parent, Partner of Parent or Guardians per child per day
Important Notice
Visitors with any symptoms relating to Covid-19- coronavirus including a cough or temperature must not visit the hospital the guidance issued by NHS111 is here: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/self-isolation-advice/
If visitors have a general cold, including cough, cold, runny nose they must not come to the hospital.
Visitors with any symptoms relating to a stomach upset, including diarrhoea and/or vomiting should not come to the hospital.
The Trust advises visitors to contact its Patient Advice and Liaison Service if they have specific concerns beyond this guidance, the service is available on weekdays on 01925 275512 or e-mail [email protected]
