All our help and information for 23/10/2020 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.
A single phone number is also available for anyone in Somerset who needs coronavirus-related support from their councils. The Somerset Coronavirus Support Helpline number, 0300 790 6275, makes it easier for people to access any local authority help they may need, including emotional support, during the current crisis. Lines are open seven days a week from 8am to 6pm.
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Everyone can catch it, anyone can spread it
We are continuing to see a rise in positive Covid-19 cases across the county. The Somerset seven-day rate is still lower (42.1 per 100,000 population) than the England rate (173.6 per 100,000) but the rise over the last few weeks is steadily continuing.
We are closely monitoring where our cases are, so that we can be quick to respond to any trends, clusters or outbreaks.
We have had positive cases in all parts of the county, therefore we want to stress that we are all in this together, and keeping the virus under control needs all of us to stick to the ‘Hands, Face, Space’ guidance. Anyone can catch Covid-19 regardless of age, gender or geographical location.
Stay safe this Halloween
With Halloween a week tomorrow, many of us would now be planning fun (and spooky) things to do with our families. Unfortunately, as we all know, coronavirus means that we need to approach such things differently this year.
Please avoid Trick or Treating if possible, and at all times follow the rule of six as well as the ‘hands, face and space’ guidance. Knocking on doors and picking up sweets can increase the risk of catching and spreading the virus through touch and close contact.
Instead why not use the opportunity to be creative and find alternative Halloween activities within your own home. Organise a Halloween themed treasure hunt around your house and garden and hide the trick or treat sweets to be found in the safety of your home! Or decorate your doorstep and share your pictures with us on social media. www.somerset.gov.uk/coronavirus
Half-term tips
With half term fast approaching and many people likely to take short ‘staycations’ across the region, it is important to remember that a holiday does not mean a holiday from the guidelines – we want you to enjoy your holiday but please do so safely.
Ensure that you try to keep at least 2 metres away from people you do not live with. Social distancing is essential to stop the spread of the virus, as it is more likely to spread when people are close together. Continue to keep up regular hand washing and cover your face in enclosed spaces. And please don’t travel at all if you have symptoms, however mild – a high temperature, new and continuous cough, or loss or change to your sense of taste and smell – or if you’ve been advised to self-isolate.
Reduce the risks and follow advice
It’s vital everyone acts to reduce their own risk, and the risk to others, from getting ill with coronavirus.
There’s really important information available to help Somerset residents, businesses and visitors take all-important precautions
Public Health dashboard
Detailed Public Health information dashboards are available on our website www.somerset.gov.uk/coronavirus just scroll down to ‘Covid-19 dashboard’. These are updated daily.
Check out the latest advice
Finally, as we enter the weekend, you can check out the latest advice and guidance via the Government’s FAQ.