High Peak told to ‘stay alert’ after cases of Covid-19 increase in the borough

The warning comes after a major incident was declared in Greater Manchester - which contains seven of England’s worst affected local authority areas for Covid-19 infections out of the top 20.

New rules in Manchester ban members of two different households from mixing in pubs, restaurants and other hospitality venues.

Mr Wallace says although the extra lockdown measures around Greater Manchester do not apply in the High Peak there has been a small rise in confirmed cases in Buxton and Glossop.

Warning that ‘coronavirus is still in general circulation’ Mr Wallace says it is ‘vital’ that everyone continues to stay home as much as possible, maintains social distancing and washes their hands regularly to protect themselves and their loved ones.

He said: “We would expect a small rise given the close proximity to the areas affected by the extra restrictions but I’d like to reassure residents that we’re closely monitoring the situation and will take action if needed in the future.

“As the rules are generally relaxed we must not stop taking these basic precautions and should all be wearing a face covering in shops and other enclosed areas, on public transport or when you visit the hospital or GP.

“People are also strongly encouraged to wear a face covering in enclosed spaces where social distancing may be difficult and where you come into contact with people you do not normally meet.

“I know how difficult it can be to keep track of teenagers and young people but I’d also urge parents and carers to make sure they are following the rules too as they can pass the virus on to elderly or vulnerable relatives.”

There are important things people need to continue doing to avoid contracting the virus and passing it on:

Keeping their distance from people not in their household or support bubble Washing their hands regularly Wearing a face covering in shops, on public transport or when visiting the hospital or GP and from August 8 it will also be compulsory to wear one in other indoor venues such as cinemas and places of worship.

Two people from different households can meet indoors but they still need to keep their distance and keep windows and doors open where possible for ventilation.

Outside they can get together with up to 30 people from two households or a maximum of six people from different households.

Anyone with symptoms should ring NHS 119 for an appointment at the nearest drive-through or walk-through centre. To request a home testing kit or book online at www.nhs.uk

Mr Wallace added: “I know it is frustrating but it’s important to understand that this virus has not gone away and that we’re still in the middle of an epidemic.

“If we all stay alert and take sensible precautions we can prevent the spread of this very contagious virus and all get back to what we love to do more quickly.”

If people start to feel unwell they should remain at home for at least 10 days but should arrange to have a test within five days of developing symptoms.

Ring NHS 119 to book a free test at a drive-through or walk-through centre or to request a home testing kit – tests can also be booked online HERE

People who test positive will be contacted by the NHS Test and Trace team by email, text or phone.

They will be asked where they have been and who they’ve been in contact with and tracers will then be in touch with close contacts to ask them to self-isolate for 14 days.

If people are contacted by the Test and Trace programme it is important they give all the correct information to keep their friends and family safe.

For more information click HERE

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