Coronavirus: Fareham group makes unprecedented move to axe Mother's Day event amid virus fear
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In an unprecedented move, Fareham Flower Club has axed its floral event at Fareham Shopping Centre on Saturday.
Sandy Mitchell, of Fareham Flower Club, said: ‘We have never had to do this before and are most disappointed.
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Hide Ad‘However, in the light of what’s happening with this virus, we think it’s the most sensible course of action, not only for the health reasons but also due to the fact that there will not be people about to buy the posies.’
The decision comes as Boris Johnson announced new measures to slow the spread of the virus, which has killed 10 people and infected nearly 600 in the UK.
He said it was ‘the worst public health crisis for a generation’ and warned many families they would ‘lose loved ones before their time’.
Among the infected included 15 from Hampshire, Public Health England announced yesterday.
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Hide AdIn a bid to tackle the outbreak, health officials yesterday said people with a new, continuous cough or high fevers, must self-isolate for seven days.
As part of the new measures, testing will only focus on identifying people with the virus in hospital.
People with symptoms are no longer required to call NHS 111, as the system is under strain, but are instead urged to look for information on the NHS website and 111 online.
Coronavirus: the facts
What is coronavirus?
COVID-19 is a respiratory illness that can affect lungs and airways. It is caused by a virus called coronavirus.
What caused coronavirus?
The outbreak started in Wuhan in China in December 2019 and it is thought that the virus, like others of its kind, has come from animals.
How is it spread?
As this is such a new illness, experts still aren’t sure how it is spread. But.similar viruses are spread in cough droplets. Therefore covering your nose and mouth when sneezing and coughing, and disposing of used tissues straight away is advised. Viruses like coronavirus cannot live outside the body for very long.
What are the symptoms?
The NHS states that the symptoms are: a dry cough, high temperature and shortness of breath - but these symptoms do not necessarily mean you have the illness. Look out for flu-like symptoms, such as aches and pains, nasal congestion, runny nose and a sore throat. It’s important to remember that some people may become infected but won’t develop any symptoms or feel unwell.
What precautions can be taken?
Washing your hands with soap and water thoroughly. The NHS also advises to cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when you cough or sneeze; put used tissues in the bin immediately and try to avoid close contact with people who are unwell. Also avoiding touching eyes, nose and mouth unless your hands are clean.
Should I avoid public places?
Most people who feel well can continue to go to work, school and public places and should only stay at home and self isolate if advised by a medical professional or the coronavirus service.
What should I do if I feel unwell?
Don’t go to your GP but instead call NHS 111 or look online at the coronavirus service that can tell you if you need medical help and what to do next.
When to call NHS 111
NHS 111 should be used if you feel unwell with coronavirus symptoms, have been in a country with a high risk of coronavirus in the last 14 days or if you have been in close contact with someone with the virus.
Sources: World Health Organisation and NHS
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