'NHS cannot fight COVID-19 alone': open letter from top medics to Dorset
An open letter from top medical bosses in Dorset is calling on our support to stop the spread of the virus.
Leading doctors and nurses are calling on Dorset to help stop the spread of COVID-19.
All local medical and nursing directors across Dorset, Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole have written an open letter to the county.
The joint appeal asks the public to help each other by playing their part to stop the virus.
It's after the number of coronavirus cases has increased again in Dorset. 726 cases were confirmed across the whole county last week - up from 635 the week before.
The letter urges us to help the NHS fight the coronavirus by sticking to guidelines and limiting the number of people we mix with.
The letter reads:
"Responding to COVID-19 and living with the challenges it has presented has been tough for very many people, including our NHS staff and care workers.
"Your NHS cannot fight COVID-19 alone: we all have a part to play to stop the spread of the virus. By taking sensible steps and following the guidelines, together we can protect each other and save lives this Winter.
"Cases across Dorset are mainly linked to household groups, so it is vital social distancing is maintained and we limit the number of groups we mix with. Stop the spread of coronavirus by remembering to wash your hands, cover your face and make space.
"Following clinical advice and guidance is especially important if you have been identified by the NHS Test and Trace service.
"If you are told to self-isolate, you must stay at home for 14 days even if you feel well. If you have any COVID-19 symptoms, self-isolate immediately and only leave your home to get tested.
"You may catch COVID-19 and have only mild symptoms or have no symptoms at all, but you can pass it on to someone who is more vulnerable than you and for whom COVID-19 is a very serious, life-threatening illness.
"Please do your bit and remember to wash your hands frequently, wear a face covering where required and give others space.
"Together we can protect our families, colleagues, and others around us."
Dr Forbes Watson, local Dorset GP and Chair of NHS Dorset CCG, said:
“It’s very important for everyone to continue to do their bit to protect our local communities, our friends, and relatives.
"By working together with your help, we can help to save lives this winter. Please remember to wash your hands, cover your face, and make space.”
Dorset HealthCare Executive Medical Director Dr Faisil Sethi said:
“Our NHS staff continue to work incredibly hard to support local people who need our care. This is more challenging as we move into winter and continue to tackle COVID-19.
"You can do your bit to help protect others around us and yourselves by following the rules – wash your hands, cover your face and keep your distance. We need to work together to help keep Dorset safe.”