This page has been designed to provide up-to-date information, guidance and advice with regards to Coronavirus (COVID-19).
Rather than try to keep up with the changes, I am linking here to useful information from the government and local authorities, so that you can access the correct and up-to-date information.
If you need medical help, please use the 111 online coronavirus service.
Please click here for the Government's stay at home advice and here for more general information.
Websites for advice:
There is general advice and information from Public Health England here https://www.gov.uk/guidance/coronavirus-covid-19-information-for-the-public
NHS travel advice here: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/
Foreign Office Travel Advice here: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/travel-advice-novel-coronavirus
Information from Dorset Council: https://www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/emergencies-severe-weather/emergencies/coronavirus-covid-19-latest-advice.aspx
Information from BCP Council: https://www.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/News/News-Features/COVID19/Coronavirus-Covid-19.aspx
Which businesses can stay open? https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/further-businesses-and-premises-to-close/further-businesses-and-premises-to-close-guidance?fbclid=IwAR1k6-4x1yBlbIeEhrgT7mUnBNmElqyhE4VWxXNQbnOmctQx0_229vcU2Qg
The coronavirus Covid-19 is a significant and serious health threat to this country - the worst it has faced in a century. The situation is very fast moving, and advice changes daily.
The entire government are focussed on dealing with this virus, as well as local authorities, the NHS and everyone across health and social care. Actions will be taken based on the best medical and scientific advice, with consideration for what is best for the population as a whole. The Prime Minister, Chief Medical Officer Prof Chris Whitty & Chief Scientific Adviser Sir Patrick Vallance have been outlining the governments’ action plan to tackle the virus, following advice from medical experts. The government will only take extreme measures if the medical evidence shows that it will be helpful, and people should follow the advice given at each stage. The Government has been clear that it will make decisions following the latest scientific advice from experts. I believe that this is a sensible approach.
We all know that washing our hands is a vital part of preventing the spread of the virus, and when that is not possible, to use an alcohol-based hand gel. Ideally, you should wash your hands when arriving at work or home having been out, after coughing, sneezing or blowing your nose, and of course after using the toilet and before preparing or eating food. It is difficult not to touch your face, but the virus can be spread by getting it on your hands and then into your eyes, nose or mouth. It gets easier with practise to stop touching your face. Masks will only have limited effect in healthy people – but if a medical professional advises you to wear one then do so.