|
Dear resident,
We hope that you’re well.
This week we’re bringing you an update following a recent outbreak in LS13, a reminder of our local outbreak plan, and information about the new government measures to tackle large gatherings over the bank holiday weekend.
Update on local clusters of spread and a reminder of our local outbreak plan
As of Wednesday 26 August, the Leeds 7 day average infection rate is 18.6 per 100,000.
This week we are responding to a workplace outbreak at the Greggs distribution centre in LS13. The premises are now closed and are being deep-cleaned, and testing and contact tracing of staff is underway. Greggs have been working with the council, Public Health England and the Leeds Clinical Commissioning Group to put the necessary control measures in place, and Public Health colleagues are satisfied that all steps have been taken to minimise any further spread of infection.
We would like to thank everyone for their part in keeping themselves and others safe and following advice. By continuing to follow the guidance we can help prevent further cases and stay on top of community transmission.
These include:
- Keeping a safe distance from others.
- Washing your hands regularly, for 20 seconds.
- Wearing a face covering on public transport, and in indoor areas such as shops, places of worship, hairdressers, libraries and healthcare settings. You can find further guidance on wearing a face covering below.
- No one in your household should leave home if any one person has symptoms.
- If you have symptoms, stay at home and book a free test on the NHS website or ring 119.
- If you need to stay at home and have no family or friends for support, ring 0113 378 1877 where you will be re-directed to Leeds Welfare Support Service.
If you start to experience any symptoms, please stay at home and book a test.
 For more details about outbreak planning in Leeds and steps that can be taken to prevent the spread of Covid-19, please visit our website.
Students and Young People
Nationally there is an emerging trend of increases in the number of positive cases amongst young people aged 18-25.
Last week young people across Leeds received their results in extremely challenging circumstances. If you are planning a celebration over the bank holiday please ensure these are in line with government guidelines, including the new restrictions (below) which come into force tomorrow around large gatherings, and that social distancing is observed.
We are asking parents and carers of young adults to remind them ahead of the bank holiday of the risks of Covid-19 and reinforce the guidance we currently have in place to stay safe, particularly around maintaining social distancing with friends from different households and not attending large gatherings. This is crucial for ensuring we reduce and stop the spread of the virus and particularly, protecting those residents and family members who are most vulnerable.
Bank holiday guidance
From 28th August, new measures are being brought in by government to tackle large gatherings which increase the risk of spreading coronavirus and are a particular concern ahead of the bank holiday. The new measures mean that it is a criminal offence to organise or facilitate any gathering of 30 people or more and anyone who does may face a £10,000 fine.
Fines of £100 can continue to be issued to those who take part in or attend illegal gatherings and those who have already received a fine will see these doubled on each offence, up to a maximum of £3,200. Read more on the government’s website.
Please remember, as always, to keep a safe distance from others and wear face coverings on public transport if you’re travelling in and around the city.
How to wear a face covering
You must wear a face covering in indoor areas such as shops and supermarkets, places of worship, hairdressers, healthcare settings and when using public transport.
Face coverings should:
- Cover your mouth and nose.
- Fit comfortably and securely against the side of your face.
- Be secured with ties or ear loops.
- Ideally include at least two layers of fabric.
You should wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds when putting on and removing your face covering.
Please remember that some people and children are medically exempt from wearing a face covering. Please bear this is mind if you see someone not wearing a face covering.
Full guidance, including exemptions, when to wear a face covering, and how to make your own can be found on the government’s website.
Your NHS is still here for you
It’s important that you’re aware of any changes to your body and that if you notice anything different, you contact your GP practice. Unexplained symptoms can sometimes be an early sign of cancer or another underlying health condition.
GP practises are still open, however, these are by appointment only. If you do not have an appointment, please follow these 3 steps:
- Call your registered GP so they can arrange for you to speak to a healthcare professional
- A healthcare professional will then call you back or arrange a video consultation to discuss your needs.
- If a face to face appointment is required, a date and time will be arranged with you to come to the surgery.
When the surgery is closed, please call 111 or visit www.111.nhs.uk
You should call 999 for life-threatening emergencies and you’ll be treated in a safe, low risk environment. Please don’t put your health at risk.
|
