Date:
(News source: published on behalf of Surrey County Council)
Data is showing some rises in COVID-19 case numbers in areas of Surrey and residents should remain vigilant to slow any spread of the virus.
As part of the Local Outbreak Control Plan for Surrey we made a commitment to be open and transparent about our response to COVID-19. Therefore, it is important to communicate any increase in cases, which is out of step with that we would expect to see.
We are confirming today that we have now seen a small rise in cases in Elmbridge.
Ruth Hutchinson, Surrey County Council's Director of Public Health said: “Surrey residents have worked alongside us over the past few months to bring levels of Coronavirus down, and the overwhelming majority have listened to our advice and followed public health guidelines to help keep Surrey safe.
“We are continually monitoring the data across the county, and we now need to call on residents in Elmbridge to further support us in reducing the spread of the virus.
“Surrey still has comparatively low numbers of Coronavirus infections, but we can’t be complacent. Everyone in Surrey has a role to play in slowing the spread – by keeping their distance and limiting contact with people outside their household, not meeting in groups of any larger than 6 people outdoors, washing their hands and wearing face coverings.
“If you have Coronavirus symptoms then you should self-isolate for 10 days from the onset of your symptoms, and book a test.
“We are still a long way from a local lockdown, if we all follow guidelines now, we can avoid this happening and keep Elmbridge Borough open.”
If you have Coronavirus symptoms – a persistent cough, high fever, or a change in smell or taste – then you should book a test by calling 119 or visiting nhs.uk/coronavirus. Slots are made available the evening before for morning appointments, and in the morning for afternoon appointments.
Preventative measures are the best way to avoid local lockdowns. Residents should be assured that we are not currently considering local lockdowns and there are no plans for closure of premises while numbers remain relatively low. We will continue to review the data on a daily basis, and we anticipate that with extra vigilance that the figures will come down and additional measures will not be needed.