March 6, 2020 6.28 pm This story is over 60 months old

First Lincolnshire coronavirus cases confirmed

The latest coronavirus information for Lincolnshire

Coronavirus has arrived in Lincolnshire, as the government confirmed there are up to four cases in the county.

The Department of Health said on Friday afternoon that between one and four people have tested positive for coronavirus (COVID-19) in Lincolnshire.

No further location breakdown was available at the time of writing.

North and North East Lincolnshire have no COVID-19 cases confirmed.

Across the UK a total of 163 cases of coronavirus have tested positive.

At the moment, the advice is to wash your hands regularly in order to prevent the spread of the virus. More here. If you suspect you might have coronavirus, call 111 first.

A Lincolnshire person who contracted coronavirus when travelling to Italy may have infected others in the county on their return, Public Health England has said. 

Dr Fu-Meng Khaw, Centre Director, Public Health England East Midlands, said: “Public Health England is contacting people who had close contact with one of the latest confirmed cases of COVID-19.

“The case is a resident of Lincolnshire and recently returned from Italy.

“Close contacts will be given health advice about symptoms and emergency contact details to use if they become unwell in the 14 days after contact with the confirmed case.

“This tried and tested method will ensure we are able to minimise any risk to them and the wider public.”

Derek Ward, Director of Public Health for Lincolnshire County Council, said: “I’d like to reassure people that the risk to the general public remains low and the local authority is working with health colleagues to do everything we can to stop the virus spreading and ensure the people of Lincolnshire are protected.

“Good hygiene is the best prevention and there are some simple steps you can take to protect you and your family by washing your hands regularly and thoroughly and if you cough, cover your mouth and nose with a tissue.

“If you have recently been to one of the affected areas and are feeling unwell, you should phone the NHS 111 helpline for further advice straight away – please don’t go to your doctor or a hospital. There’s lots of advice on how people can protect themselves online at www.nhs.uk/coronavirus.”

If you or someone you know has been affected by the coronavirus, please call the news desk on 015228372217 or email [email protected].