FIGURES for the number of coronavirus cases being confirmed in Worcestershire are no longer being released, the county council has said.
A spokesman for Worcestershire County Council said: "The government policy on testing has changed. There is no longer community testing, and anyone showing symptoms of coronavirus (a high temperature and/or a new continuous cough) is being told to self-isolate.
"As a result the figures for positive tests within a community are not being recorded. This is so Public Health England can prioritise testing for those most vulnerable and most in need.
"There will no longer be a daily announcement of confirmed cases in Worcestershire as a result of these changes.
Dr Kathryn Cobain, director of public health for Worcestershire, said: “I’d like to reassure people that we continue to track the virus in Worcestershire and we are working with health partners at a county, regional and national level to stop the virus spreading.
“Our main focus remains ensuring the people of Worcestershire are protected. It’s really important that everyone follows the latest guidance about staying at home if you show even the slightest symptoms of coronavirus.
“For most people who get coronavirus, it will be a mild infection, but we all have a role to play in protecting the most vulnerable people in society. We can also take care of the vulnerable in our communities, offering to help and support them in the coming days and weeks.
“Good hygiene is the best prevention and there are some simple steps you can take to protect you and your family by washing your hands regularly and thoroughly and if you cough, cover your mouth and nose with a tissue and dispose of it immediately.”
Latest government figures released as we went to print showed 44,105 people have been tested in the UK, of which 1,543 were confirmed as positive.
The updated guidance announced by the government requires anyone who has symptoms of a coronavirus infection – a new continuous cough and/or a high temperature (37.8 degrees centigrade or higher) – to stay at home for seven days from the point that their symptoms first started.
Anyone worried about symptoms can contact NHS 111 online at 111.nhs.uk/covid-19 and the NHS or call NHS 111.
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