Coronavirus: "No Need To Behave Differently"

The Chief Minister says it doesn't matter that Coronavirus is now closer to Jersey, because the island is well-prepared to deal with any cases.

84 people have now been tested here, with all results coming back negative.

As of 2.30pm today, a total of 84 tests have concluded:

84 confirmed negative
0 positive

Updates will be published daily on Twitter at 2.30pm Monday to Friday. Read the latest advice: https://t.co/vulxRxQ6VV#CoronavirusJSY pic.twitter.com/owB72gaKPI

— Government of Jersey (@GovJersey) March 9, 2020

Jersey's government has moved to reassure islanders after the confirmed case in Guernsey - saying there's no evidence that it resulted from, or led to, local transmission. 

Guernsey's Health department says the person diagnosed 'sought help promptly and is doing well' after returning from Tenerife with symptoms (cough, shortness of breath, fever).

Jersey's contingency plans align with the UK's - and departments have been updating business continuity plans in preparation for an outbreak.

"It does not matter that Coronavirus is now geographically closer to Jersey, the Island is well-prepared to deal with any cases. It is also important to stress that there is no need to behave differently – people can continue to fly and sail between the islands.

"In the majority of cases, infection with the virus causing COVID-19 is mild, and, unlike flu, current indications are that individuals who are showing no symptoms are unlikely to be contagious. It cannot be stressed enough that the best way Islanders can protect themselves and others from Coronavirus is to wash their hands, cover their mouths when they sneeze or cough and put used tissues in the bin immediately." - Senator John Le Fondré - Chief Minister.

A dedicated area has been created on the government website to update advice from the World Health Organisation, including a special section with advice for businesses with any concerns. A dedicated Coronavirus can be reached by calling 445566.

Jersey's Emergencies Council is due to meet on Thursday to review the island's plans if there was a case here - such as how schools and businesses would operate.

The Chamber of Commerce will meet the government tomorrow lunchtime (Tuesday 10 March) to maintain the discussion on the situation. That is due to take place on a weekly basis.

 Coronavirus Advice

If you think you might have the virus, you should self-isolate and call the Health Department's coronavirus helpline:

01534 445566

It's open every day between 8am and 8pm. Calls outside these times, or when the line is engaged, won't be answered straight away - but we're told to leave a message and Health officials will call you back.

Please don't visit your GP or the Emergency Department at the General Hospital if you think you have the virus.

Coronavirus symptoms are similar to that of the flu - a combination of a cough, fever and aching muscles. If you've had any symptoms, even if you haven't travelled abroad, we're being told to self-isolate until they clear up (for a minimum of seven days).

Anyone who has come into contact with a person confirmed to have the coronavirus should stay in self-isolation for at least 14 days.

All the latest information can be found on Gov.je.