THE NHS in the area is well prepared for outbreaks of new infectious diseases, says a health boss.

The assurance was issued today by Rob Aitchison, chief operating officer at Airedale NHS Foundation Trust.

He said: "The NHS has put in place measures to ensure the safety of all patients and NHS staff while also ensuring services continue to be available to the public. 

"We have a fantastic team here at Airedale and I would like to thank them for all their hard work to ensure the Trust is well prepared for this outbreak."

Mr Aitchison urged people to follow Public Health England's advice to:

⦁ Always carry tissues with year and use them to catch your cough or sneeze. Then bin the tissue, and wash your hands, or use a sanitiser gel.

⦁ Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after using public transport. Use a sanitiser gel if soap and water are not available.

⦁ Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.

⦁ Avoid close contact with people who are unwell.

Mr Aitchison said the latest advice was for people to stay at home for seven days if they had a high temperature or continuous cough, but they did not need to call 111 to say they were staying at home.

He added: "Use the NHS 111 online coronavirus service if you feel you cannot cope with your symptoms at home, your condition gets worse, and your symptoms do not get better after seven days. Only call 111 if you cannot get help online."