First person tests positive for COVID-19 in East Sussex authority area

A resident who has recently returned home from a cruise is the first person to test positive for COVID-19 in East Sussex. East Sussex County Council said they are working with specialists from Public Health England (PHE) and NHS colleagues following the confirmed case of coronavirus. Public Health England's Alison Barnett said: "Public Health England is contacting people who had close contact with the latest confirmed case of COVID-19. "This case is a resident of East Sussex. "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." Director of Public Health for East Sussex Darrell Gale said: "I’d like to reassure people that we are working with health colleagues to do everything we can to restrict and slow the spread of the virus and ensure the people of this county are protected. "If you have not been contacted by Public Health England as a close contact of the confirmed case you do not need to take any action at this time." The authority said they are appealing for people to follow national Government guidance to prevent further spread of the illness and limit the numbers affected. East Sussex County Council said the guidance includes taking basic hygiene precautions as the best way of significantly reducing the chances of spreading any virus: sneeze or cough into a tissue, bin it, wash your hands frequently and don’t touch your face unless you’ve just washed your hands. Authorities added that current evidence indicates that most cases appear to be mild, with patients experiencing flu-like symptoms. Older residents or those with weakened immune systems or long-term conditions may experience more severe symptoms. Mr Gale said: "These are the same simple steps we all should be taking to avoid other illnesses such as flu which is also prevalent during the winter and it is important that residents help protect themselves and others. "If you have symptoms associated with the coronavirus, either a high temperature or a new continuous cough, you should not go to A&E or your doctor but self-isolate yourself at home. "You do not need to ring 111 to let them know. "Contact the NHS online service if you feel you cannot cope at home, or if your condition gets worse or if your symptoms have not improved after seven days. Only ring NHS 111 if you cannot use the online service." Self-isolation means you should: stay at home not go to work, school or public places not use public transport or taxis ask friends, family members or delivery services to do errands for you try to avoid visitors to your home – it’s OK for friends, family or delivery drivers to drop off food

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