Whilst there have been no cases of the coronavirus identified on the Isle of Wight at present, with the steady spread of the coronavirus infection across Europe and with a number of isolated reports in the UK involving those who have recently travelled to places where cases have been confirmed, it seems timely to refer to the NHS and Public Health England (PHE) advice on how to limit the spread not just of the coronavirus, but common flu viruses and the common cold.

Like the common cold and flu, coronavirus infection usually occurs through close contact with an infected person via coughs and sneezes or hand contact. A person can also be infected by touching contaminated surfaces if they do not wash their hands.

The risk of being in close contact with a person with coronavirus or contaminated surfaces is very low at the current time with those suspected of carrying the virus being kept in isolation.

However, to protect yourself and others from the common cold, flu or coronavirus you are advised to:

• 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.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after using public transport. Use a sanitiser gel if soap and water are not available.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid close contact with people who are unwell.

At Millbrooke House, at Dress for Less, on our minibus and at outreach events we are attending, as a matter of routine hygienic practice, sanitisers and hand gel will be readily available for use. You can find the latest information and advice from Public Health England at www.gov.uk/coronavirus