‘Business as usual’ in Brighton & Hove
The information in this news story was correct at the time of publishing. Find the latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19).
Council leader Nancy Platts has thanked all the health agencies and council staff who continue to work hard in response to coronavirus and assured residents and visitors to the city that Brighton & Hove is very much open for business.
Speaking at yesterday’s Policy & Resources committee Nancy said:
“This is a tough time for Brighton & Hove so I want to reassure people that the safety, welfare and wellbeing of everyone in our city is our primary concern.
“Thank you to everyone who has been working so hard in response to the cases of coronavirus in Brighton & Hove, including health professionals, Public Health England, councillors and council staff. I would also like to wish anyone affected by coronavirus a full recovery.
“Brighton & Hove is very much open for business. The city remains a safe place to live, work and visit and we’re looking forward to welcoming people from all over the world this weekend.
“Unless the impact of Storm Dennis dictates otherwise, our venues and attractions will be open.”
Coronavirus
There have been no more confirmed cases of coronavirus in the city for several days. On advice from the Chief Medical Officer, the government has declared the risk as 'moderate' - a level which may sound alarming but it allows government to plan for all eventualities. Ultimately, that the risk to individuals remains 'low'.
The numbers of confirmed cases in the UK remains at nine, with five of those cases being connected to people from Brighton & Hove.
A constant dialogue is taking place with the relevant authorities and the council is working in collaboration with and being guided by Public Health England and the NHS to ensure that we're giving our communities the right advice and taking the best action.
Since the five Covid-19 cases were confirmed as being from the Brighton & Hove area, Public Health England has carried out a thorough risk assessment and has traced the movements of the individuals.
Public Health England has contacted people who might have had close and sustained contact with the individuals as a precaution to provide them with health advice about any symptoms in case they become unwell.
These individuals have been advised to ‘self-isolate’ – which means they should stay at home and avoid contact with other people as a precaution.
It does not mean they are ill and people who have had contact with these individuals do not need to take action.
People living across Sussex who have not been contacted by Public Health England are being advised they should go about their daily routine as usual.
Schools remain open today as are the NHS services across Sussex. Measures are in place to ensure the safety of all patients and NHS staff while also ensuring services are available to the public as normal.
Advice from Public Health England
- always carry tissues and use them to catch your cough or sneeze, then bin the tissue, and wash your hands with soap and water
- wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after using public transport
- avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands
- avoid close contact with people who are unwell
You can find the latest information and advice from Public Health England.
