Information about the virus
A coronavirus is a type of virus. As a group, coronaviruses are common across the world. Typical symptoms of coronavirus include fever and a cough that may progress to a severe pneumonia causing shortness of breath and breathing difficulties.
Generally, coronavirus can cause more severe symptoms in people with weakened immune systems, older people, and those with long-term conditions like cancer, diabetes and chronic lung disease.
For people going through cancer, or those caring for someone who is, use the 111 online coronavirus service for more information, or contact your consultant or specialist nurse.
General advice
Everyone is being reminded to follow Public Health England advice to:
- Always carry tissues with you and use them to catch your cough or sneeze. Then bin the tissue, and wash your hands, or use a sanitiser gel.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after using public transport. Use a sanitiser gel if soap and water are not available.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Avoid close contact with people who are unwell.
If you have symptoms, or have come into contact with someone who has recently returned from an affected area, contact a member of your medical team. Do not go to a GP surgery, pharmacy, hospital or The Macmillan Wellbeing Centre. Phone 111, or use the 111 online coronavirus service
Information from The Christie Hospital
You will be aware of the evolving situation in China and other countries where there is an outbreak of respiratory infections caused by a novel coronavirus (COVID-19). The current risk level to the UK general public from coronavirus is moderate.
We are trying to reduce the footfall in the hospital by encouraging fewer visitors, including smaller numbers of patients’ friends and relatives. We are not prohibiting visitors but we are asking patients to keep these to a minimum.
If you have any questions about coronavirus as a patient, please call The Christie Hotline on 0161 446 3658.
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