Coronavirus: update

States Members are being briefed by health officials on Tuesday 3 March, on Jersey’s response to the Coronavirus outbreak. The briefing will set out the preparations made by Government in case any Islanders test positive for the virus.

There are currently no cases of Coronavirus in Jersey. A total of 41 tests have been carried out on people who were experiencing symptoms that were similar to the virus, but all have turned out to be negative.

Consultant Microbiologist and Jersey’s Deputy Medical Officer of Health, Dr Ivan Muscat, said: "We are holding daily meetings to stay ahead of the global situation and to plan our response should an outbreak arise in Jersey. Although the virus is now appearing in many countries, Islanders should not be alarmed. There is no need at this stage to avoid or cancel large gatherings, and our advice remains the same: follow good hand hygiene and self-isolate if you have been to one of the countries particularly affected by COVID-19, even if you have no symptoms."

Advance monitoring is being carried out at the airport. All passengers arriving directly from affected areas have been told how to report any symptoms they develop during the flight, at the time of arrival, or after leaving the airport.

Most people who develop symptoms will get them after leaving the airport and so the priority is providing travellers with the latest information to make sure they know what to do if they experience symptoms. Jersey’s health officials have an established plan to respond if anyone falls ill with the virus.

Local businesses have been advised to ensure their contingency planning is up to date, and industry bodies are being invited to a briefing later this week.

A helpline (01534 445566) has been set up for Islanders who are concerned about Coronavirus. Islanders who develop a fever, a cough, or difficulty breathing within 14 days of travel from countries affected by Coronavirus should call the helpline for assistance.

If someone becomes very unwell they are asked to call 999 and to explain their travel history. Islanders are urged not to attend the Emergency Department or their GP surgery without contacting them first.

There is more information here.