GP urges Swindon corona caution

A senior GP has urged Swindon people to remain vigilant to the covid-19 threat.

Dr Amanda Webb is a GP at Westrop Surgery in Highworth, and is also Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire Clinical Commissioning Group’s Clinical Chair for Swindon.

Her plea follows a number of positive covid-19 tests across the town, including more than 60 at XPO Logistics’ Iceland depot in Penzance Drive.

While the local outbreaks have so far largely been contained and efforts made to trace contacts, the GP warns that there is still a pressing need for alertness.

She said: “Although it’s true we are not in the same place we were in March and April, these recent outbreaks are a stark reminder that coronavirus is still very much with us and, as such, we need to act accordingly.

“Staying at least two metres apart from others when outside our homes, coupled with regular hand washing and mask wearing in shops and on public transport, are the actions that will keep us safe and keep the rate of infection down.

“It’s also never been more important for people to self-isolate and to get tested for coronavirus at the first sign of symptoms showing, as this not only protects others but allows our public health team to really get a hold on where the virus is currently active.

“The testing is free and quick to arrange, with the results usually being returned within a day or two, so please do not put it off or dismiss the symptoms as a common cold, as this carelessness could ultimately cost lives.”

The CCG has been working alongside partner agencies including Swindon Borough Council and teams at Great Western Hospital to contain the rise in infection and limit the further spread of infection.

Anybody showing possible symptoms such as fever, a new and persistent cough or a change to their senses of taste and smell, is advised to book a test by calling 119 from any landline or mobile phone.

Further information is available at www.gov.uk/coronavirus and www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19