Derbyshire’s public health director issues important reminders to residents amid coronavirus pandemic

It comes as Derbyshire’s director of public health urged residents in the High Peak to ‘stay alert’ after a slight increase in Covid-19 cases there.

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

- keeping their distance from people not in their household or support bubble

- washing their hands regularly

- wearing a face covering in these places, including shops, on public transport and when visiting the hospital or GP

- two 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

- if they 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 by visiting www.gov.uk/guidance/coronavirus-covid-19-getting-tested or calling 119

Latest statistics from Derbyshire County Council show the High Peak saw the highest number of new Covid-19 cases in Derbyshire county during the last fortnight in July.

There were 24 new cases in the borough between July 18 and July 31.

The High Peak borders Greater Manchester, where tighter restrictions have had to be implemented to stop the spread of coronavirus.

Dean Wallace, the council’s director of public health, said there had been a slight increase in confirmed cases of the virus in Buxton and Glossop.

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.

“Coronavirus is still in general circulation so it’s vital that everyone continues to do what they have been doing for the past few months – stay home as much as possible, maintain social distancing and wash their hands regularly to protect themselves and their loved ones.

“As the rules are generally relaxed we must not stop taking these basic precautions. We 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 don’t 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.”

Between July 18 and July 31, North East Derbyshire saw 11 new Covid-19 cases, the second-highest number in Derbyshire.

There were nine cases in Amber Valley, eight in Bolsover and eight in South Derbyshire.

Chesterfield and Derbyshire Dales had seven cases and six cases respectively while Erewash had the lowest number with five.

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