RCGP statement on Wuhan Novel Coronavirus

The Royal College of General Practitioners (RCGP) have released their latest statement on the Wuhan Novel Coronavirus

This is an edited version of an article first published by the RCGP.

Professor Martin Marshall, chair of the Royal College of GPs, said: “We’re closely monitoring updates from relevant authorities, such as Public Health England (PHE) and equivalent organisations in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

“The current threat to the UK is still considered moderate and while eight cases of coronavirus have been confirmed in the UK, NHS England and PHE are assuring patients that there are robust arrangements in place to manage the situation.

“Patients should not be alarmed as it is still more likely that anyone with flu-like symptoms will have the flu.

“However, in light of the members of staff who tested positive for coronavirus in Brighton we’d like to remind the public that it is vital that any patient who thinks they may have symptoms does not try to attend a GP appointment or hospital emergency departments in person. They should stay at home and call NHS 111, advising the call handler if they have recently travelled back from one of the following places: China, Thailand, Japan, Republic of Korea, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Singapore, Malaysia and/or Macau.

“Should a patient arrive at a GP surgery with potential symptoms and who has recently travelled to an affected area, practice staff should place them in isolation, where possible. Current PHE guidelines should then be followed.

“The Foreign and Commonwealth Office is currently advising against all travel to Hubei province in China, and all but essential travel to mainland China. It is also recommending that anybody who has returned from China, Thailand, Japan, Republic of Korea, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Singapore, Malaysia and/or Macau in the last 14 days stays indoors and avoids contact with other people where possible – and that they advise health authorities of their situation by calling NHS 111.”

Don’t forget to follow us on Twitter, or connect with us on LinkedIn!