Our friends in the NHS and the care sector have been working flat out as coronavirus spreads through our county. The number of confirmed cases of Covid-19 in Shropshire and Telford and Wrekin stands at 270, a number that will be an underestimate as it only includes cases confirmed by testing. Thirty-four have patients have died at the Royal Shrewsbury and Princes Royal Hospitals. There have been other deaths at care homes and in the community.
To support us, GPs and pharmacies will be open on Good Friday and Easter Monday, bank holiday days when they would normally be closed.
The support we are getting from the NHS is fantastic and I hope you will join in the weekly Clap for Our Carers at 8pm tonight.
Press release from Shropshire and Telford and Wrekin Clinical Commissioning Groups
GP practices in Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin will be ‘open as usual’ on Good Friday and Easter Monday this bank holiday weekend.
In support of this, pharmacies will also open between 2pm and 5pm on these days, with some pharmacies planning to open for longer.
Residents are advised to check GP practice and pharmacy websites for specific opening times as these may vary.
In the midst of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, people are asked not to attend their GP practice unless they have a pre-booked appointment.
However, people are also advised that despite the outbreak, those that need to contact their GP should still do so.
If anyone needs an appointment, they can contact their practice. There is also help and advice available from 111.nhs.uk or by calling 111 free from any landline or mobile.
Dr Julian Povey, Chair of Shropshire Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) said: “It will be crucial that people stay at home rather than venturing out this bank holiday. It will save lives and protect the NHS.
“Although you might be tempted to go out, especially if the weather is good, it is extremely important that you remain at home and slow the spread of the virus.
“If you feel unwell then please visit NHS 111 online in the first instance or call 111 if you do not have access to the internet. Healthcare professionals will then be able to advise you on the best course of action.”
Dr Jo Leahy, Chair of Telford and Wrekin CCG said:
“We are currently working through a very difficult time for the NHS, so I want to appeal to everyone to support the Government’s messages of staying at home and respecting social distancing at all times.
“Please also be aware that it is very important to take care when doing any DIY projects around the home in order to avoid a trip to A&E.
“I would like to give a special thanks to all our NHS colleagues, particularly those in Primary Care, who will be working over the Easter bank holiday weekend to help keep these essential services going.”