Council unveils plans in case of new Covid outbreak
A DOCUMENT has been produced detailing what the response will be should there be a localised coronavirus outbreak in Macclesfield.
Cheshire East Council has published its plan for towns across the borough as part of the government’s test, trace, contain and enable recovery strategy.
It explains how Covid transmission in community settings will be combatted, what measures will be put in place to manage the outbreak and how vulnerable residents who have tested positive and isolating will be supported.
The plan involves working with care homes, schools, healthcare organisations and businesses.
Although it is thought the UK has passed the peak of transmission
Leicester has shown how local outbreaks are possible.
Council leader Sam Corcoran said: “Case numbers are decreasing and national restrictions have been relaxed as we saw the reopening of pubs and restaurants this weekend and our play areas and libraries reopened locally today.
“The virus is still out there, however and we need to remain vigilant and take precautions.
“Each and every resident has a part to play in helping prevent a local outbreak by supporting our plans and following the test and trace protocol, to protect themselves, their family and friends.
“It’s through supporting each other and your local council that we will continue to win this fight against the coronavirus, to make sure we don’t have to put this outbreak plan into place.”
Dr Matt Tyrer, Cheshire East’s director of public health, said: “Covid-19 transmission and outbreaks can be prevented through good hygiene practice such as regular hand washing, where this isn’t possible using hand sanitiser and adhering to social distancing measures.
“This prevention advice remains the most effective and important course of action to take in preventing a local outbreak.
An outbreak is defined as two or more cases, who may have tested positive for Covid-19 within the same 14-day period, in people who either work together or have visited a place together.
Full details of the plan can be found on the council’s website.