Coronavirus ‘likely to reach Wales’ Thursday, 13 February 2020 - Health by Cambrian News reporter

Coronavirus is likely to reach Wales at some point, according to advice issued by health chiefs this week.

The UK declared the virus a ‘serious and imminent threat’ to public health this week after the death toll surpassed that of the SARS virus with over 1,000 people dying from the virus.

The total number of UK cases stood at eight on Tuesday.

Hywel Dda Health Board says it is following guidance from Public Health Wales on handling issues around a potential coronavirus outbreak in the area.

Public Health Wales is responsible for planning for the response to coronavirus in Wales, with health protection professional lead consultant Dr Giri Shankar saying it is “likely” that there will be cases of the virus in Wales at some point.

Health boards across Wales are being advised by Public Health Wales, with no cases so far reported in Wales.

Dr Shankar said: “Public Health Wales is aware that a further patient has tested positive for coronavirus in the UK.

“The individual did not acquire this in the UK, and there are currently no confirmed cases of novel coronavirus in Wales.

“We are working closely with the other UK nations, the Welsh Government, the wider NHS in Wales, and others to monitor the novel coronavirus outbreak in China, and have implemented our planned response.

“It is likely that Wales will also see cases at some point. We are well prepared, with robust infection control measures in place to protect the health of the public.

“The UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office has advised UK nationals to leave China where possible. This change does not affect our advice for those returning from Wuhan and Hubei, or from mainland China.

“Anyone who has arrived back from China within 14 days should follow the specific advice for returning travellers.”

Dr Shankar also advised members of the public to take simple precautions.

He said: “Members of the public can help protect themselves and others by always carrying tissues, and using them to catch coughs or sneezes.

“They should bin the tissue, and to kill the germs, wash their hands with soap and water, or use a sanitiser gel."

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