First Rochdale COVID-19 case confirmed

The person has been taken to a specialist NHS infection centre

A resident of the borough of Rochdale has tested positively for COVID-19.

Director of public health at Rochdale Borough Council, Andrea Fallon, said: “We have received confirmation of the first COVID-19 case in the borough of Rochdale.

"The case is a resident who became infected after coming into contact with another positive case outside our borough.

"The person has been taken to a specialist NHS infection centre.

“Due to patient confidentiality, further information cannot be provided about this case.

"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.

“I’d like to reassure people that Public Health England have confirmed today that the risk to the general public remains low and Rochdale Borough Council is working with health colleagues to do everything we can to stop the virus spreading and ensure the people of our borough are protected.”

Good hygiene is the best prevention and there are some simple steps you can take to protect you and your family.

Please help by following Public Health England advice:

•           Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after using public transport. Use a sanitiser gel if soap and water are not available.
•           Always carry tissues with you and use them to catch your cough or sneeze. Then bin the tissue, and wash your hands, or use a sanitiser gel.
•           Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
•           Avoid close contact with people who are unwell.

If you feel unwell with flu-like symptoms, use the NHS 111 online coronavirus service at nhs.uk to find out what to do rather than visiting your doctor.

Do you have a story for us? Want to tell us about something going on in and around Oldham? Let us know by emailing news@oldham-chronicle.co.uk , calling our Oldham-based newsroom on 0161 633 2121 , tweeting us @oldhamchronicle or messaging us through our Facebook page. All contact will be treated in confidence.