Information and advice update from Healthwatch Brighton & Hove Team

Information and advice update from Healthwatch Brighton & Hove Team about the Coronavirus (Covid-19)

They have also produced a list of commonly asked questions which you can find on our website.

Information in easy read format has been produced and can be accessed on the Healthwatch website by clicking here

Information in sign language has been produced by SignHealth and is available by clicking here

The latest situation

In England, the number of cases stands at 925 (Sunday 15th March)

In Brighton, there have been 9 diagnosed cases. Confirmed cases in each local authority and NHS region are published by Public Health England (PHE).

Five of the local cases have now recovered. As far as we are aware, all individuals affected and those connected to those cases first announced in February are now out of self-isolation and are well.

Earlier this week a patient was diagnosed with Covid-19 at the Royal Sussex County Hospital. The patient is being treated on an isolation ward at the hospital. A small number of colleagues who came into contact with the patient have been identified, are self-isolating and being supported. The Trust is well-prepared to deal with this and colleagues are highly trained and experienced in caring for patients with infectious diseases and preventing the spread of viruses

All services at our hospitals remain open and unaffected. The advice remains that you should still attend your appointments and scheduled treatment as planned.

The government announced on 12 March that the UK has moved into the “delay” phase and has changed its advice to the public. Up to date information can be accessed by clicking here.

The risk to the UK has been raised to high. The delay stage involves trying to slow the spread of the virus and push wider transmission to the summer months when there is less pressure on the NHS.

New guidance has been issued describing what to do even if you have mild symptoms. Importantly, you no longer need to call NHS 111, but you should still avoid attending A&E or visiting your GP surgery.

What to do if you have symptoms
Stay at home for 7 days if you have either:
• a high temperature
• a new continuous cough

This will help to protect others in your community while you are infectious.
Do not go to a GP surgery, pharmacy or hospital with mild symptoms.
You do not need to contact NHS 111 to tell them you are staying at home.
The NHS will not be testing those self-isolating with mild symptoms.
The government continues to advise schools should remain open.

The Brighton and Hove Council webpages are kept up-to-date, and include answers to local questions, and are easy to navigate.