Coronavirus: Portsmouth officials plea for city to rally together as Covid-19 pandemic spreads

That is the unifying message from Portsmouth North MP Penny Mordaunt as the city braces for a rise in confirmed cases of coronavirus.

Swathes more at-risk residents are expected to go into self-isolation after Public Health England confirmed the first positive test for Covid-19 in the city on Saturday.

Details of the patient are not yet known, but chiefs at the University of Portsmouth have quashed rumours they are one of their students.

A spokesman said on Sunday no learners or staff members at the institution had tested positive for the virus.

Portsmouth officials are now calling for residents to exhibit their wartime-like spirits and work together to support each other as the pandemic worsens.

It follows health secretary Matt Hancock’s announcement that all over-70s will be told to stay at home for extended periods ‘over the coming weeks' for their own safety.

Early information from China, where the disease started, indicates older people and people with serious chronic conditions like heart disease, diabetes or lung disease are the groups most at risk.

Ms Mordaunt told The News: ‘We are facing some very challenging times ahead.

‘We will only reduce deaths and help the NHS to cope by following the chief medical officer’s advice. For some that will mean staying at home for long periods of time.

‘Older and vulnerable people may need our support, whether it is posting mail, getting medicines or shopping or just checking in on the phone.

‘Some businesses may also be able to help directly in the efforts to produce more equipment fast or in other ways.

‘In times of crisis our city has always rallied. I know it will this time too.’

Outside London, Hampshire is the UK region most affected by coronavirus, with Public Health England’s latest figures indicating it has 41 confirmed cases.

The MP for Portsmouth South, Stephen Morgan, has published a five-point poster people in Portsmouth can follow to ‘make a positive difference’ in the community as Covid-19 spreads.

Meanwhile a number of resident-led initiatives have already been launched to unite those affected and unaffected by the virus, including a Facebook group offering practical and emotional support.

Mr Morgan said: ‘There’s been some amazing responses by communities across Portsmouth helping to support isolated of vulnerable people as a result of Covid-19.

‘We must continue to come together, as safely as possible, to maintain Portsmouth’s community strength and support the people around us.’

Mr Morgan’s poster, pictured, encourages residents to be kind, support vulnerable or isolated groups, ‘find new ways’ to connect with neighbours to combat deteriorating mental wellbeing, and share accurate information and correct hygiene practices.

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Steve Bonner, acting secretary at Pompey Pensioners Association, said an inter-generational support network would be key to Portsmouth's response to Covid-19 as many of his 250 members will be those told to stay at home.

He said: ‘For a lot of our members our monthly meetings and activities are their best opportunity to socialise and combat isolation, but we are having to cancel them because of coronavirus.

‘I think the idea of youngsters keeping an eye on any older people, especially those who are single, is good – even if they are just checking on them in the days and evenings to make sure they are okay.’

Matthew Winnington, the council's cabinet member for health, confirmed on Saturday the city’s public health team is working with the emergency services, health groups and neighbouring authorities to achieve a ‘consistent' approach to coronavirus across the region.

Ms Mordaunt said she will take part in discussions with Portsmouth City Council and Queen Alexandra Hospital this week about their preparations.

Meanwhile, council leader Gerald Vernon-Jackson has urged all residents to follow advice from central government and look out for each other.

He said: ‘This has to be led by central government and we have to listen to the advice it is giving.

‘The other important thing is making sure we look after our neighbours and people who are self-isolating.

‘Portsmouth City Council is going to be targeting support toward people who are older, because they are the most vulnerable group, to make sure they are not in this alone.'

The NHS is urging anyone with a high temperature and a new, continuous and repeated cough not to visit their GP and to stay at home for seven days.

For the health service’s latest information on coronavirus, go to nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19

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Coronavirus: the facts – from the NHS and World Health Organisation

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.