All our help and information for 28/05/2020 is now available in a single place on the SCC website https://www.somerset.gov.uk/coronavirus/covid-19-latest-advice/
This page is refreshed through the day so please check in regularly to keep across developments and news.
Top stories today:
Remain ‘Alert’ to keep Somerset’s COVID-19 rates low
Somerset residents are urged to continue to follow Public Health guidance after new COVID-19 data released shows the infection rate in the County remains low compared to other areas.
As of 27 May 2020, the Office of National Statistics show there were 672 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Somerset with 147 individuals sadly losing their lives to the disease.
Somerset County Council publishes a weekly dashboard of COVID related health information for Somerset available on its website, www.somerset.gov.uk/coronavirus.
An important part of managing an epidemic is continuing to track and monitor it very closely and the Public Health team keep a close eye on several factors including the number of cases and the estimated R value (Reproductive value).
The R value tells us whether an epidemic is getting bigger or smaller. If the R value is bigger than one, we can assume every person who is infected with COVID is going on to infect more than one additional person. This means the epidemic will grow. An R value of less than one means the epidemic is getting smaller.
The current national estimate places the R value for the South West as being below one and there is no reason to suggest the value for Somerset is any different.
Test and Trace service launched
The new NHS Test and Trace service launched today across England. The service will help identify, contain and control coronavirus, reduce the spread of the virus and save lives. From today, anyone who tests positive for coronavirus will be contacted by NHS Test and Trace and will need to share information about their recent interactions. This could include household members, people with whom they have been in direct contact, or within 2 metres for more than 15 minutes.
Check which expenses are taxable if your employee works from home due to coronavirus
Find out what equipment, services or supplies are taxable if your employees are working from home due to coronavirus (COVID-19).
Reopening market stalls and car showrooms
The shops and branches section of the Covid Secure at Work guidance has been updated for market stalls and car showrooms wishing to make their work premises as safe as possible for a June 1 reopening.