Coronavirus: Outbreak at caravan park near Craven Arms

Public Health England have confirmed an outbreak of Covid-19 at a caravan park near Craven Arms.

They have said testing for residents was arranged immediately following two positive cases identified at the site. T

Currently three positive cases have been confirmed, with all being linked to an outbreak in Welshpool and a recent local event. Testing continues with further cases possible.

All residents on the caravan site have been asked to self-isolate with members of their household, for 14 days. This means that residents of the site are asked to remain in their homes during the period of isolation and stay within household groups, to reduce risk of spread within the site and the wider community.

Residents have been asked to follow the necessary health and safety measures to help prevent further transmission of the virus. Shropshire Council’s Public Health team and partners continue to work with those affected, to provide health protection advice, support and guidance. All partners involved are aware of residents’ concerns and want to reassure that the risk to the general public remains low.

The council’s Community Reassurance Team have been arranging food and essential supplies for residents on the site, whilst residents self-isolate.

A testing site will be available in Craven Arms from Saturday for any member of the public who has symptoms. You can make an appointment by calling NHS 119.

Rachel Robinson, Director of Public Health at Shropshire Council said: Our priority is to protect the health and wellbeing of all residents in our community.

As soon as we were notified of the first cases, we arranged immediate testing with residents from the site to allow us to understand transmission and help control the spread of infection.

We continue to support the residents on the site and have advised residents to remain on site during the period of isolation and stay within household groups, to reduce risk of spread within the site and into the wider community.

“Anyone who has a fever, persistent dry cough, or loss or change in their sense of taste or smell should call 119 or go online to arrange a test.

Testing services are available across the county but will also be available locally in Craven Arms from this Saturday 25 July. Anyone who has symptoms should book online or through NHS 119.