Coronavirus case confirmed in Oldham

A first case of the coronavirus has been confirmed in Oldham, Public Health England has said.

It is understood an Oldham resident became infected while in Northern Italy. 

The Director of Public Health's office say it is unable to comment further on the details of this particular case due to "the need to protect patient confidentiality". 

The UK Chief Medical Officer has confirmed that 32 further patients have tested positive for COVID-19 infection today (Wednesday), bringing the total number of cases in the UK to 85.

In a joint statement, Public Health England (PHE), Oldham Council and the local NHS say they are working closely together to "effectively manage" this case.

PHE is currently contacting people who may have had close contact with the confirmed 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 they had contact with the confirmed case.

PHE add that this tried and tested method will "ensure that any risk to them is minimised and the wider public is protected".

Based on current evidence, Coronavirus COVID-19 presents with flu-like symptoms including a fever, a cough, or difficulty breathing. The current evidence is that most cases appear to be mild.

Oldham Council say it has robust infection control arrangements in place and strong partnership arrangements across the health and care system.

The authority adds that all partners are working closely together to prevent further spread of the virus.

Anyone who is concerned about health symptoms is advised to follow the advice about what to do on the Government’s website at https://www.gov.uk/guidance/wuhan-novel-coronavirus-information-for-the-public.