Coronavirus: All islanders over 65 should start social distancing says Jersey Government
Jersey's government has issued 'social distancing' guidelines among new advice on preventing the spread of Coronavirus.
Dr Ivan Muscat, Deputy Medical Officer for Health, is recommending new measures to protect Islanders and significantly contain the number of potential Covid-19 cases.
This advice includes:
Social distancing for over 65's who are not essential for the running of the Island’s services should they wish to continue carrying out their roles.
Only undertaking essential travel into and out of the Island. This does not include travel for medical and compassionate purposes or travel by key workers required to keep essential services running across the Island.
Islanders with flu-like symptoms, including a combination of a fever, a cough, muscle aches and headaches should self-isolate until they are symptom free (for a minimum of seven days). This applies whether they have travelled outside Jersey or not and is irrespective of contact with a Covid-19 case.
The island's Health Department says people aged over 65 should start social distancing with immediate effect.
What is 'social distancing'?
Social distancing means limiting all contact with people outside of your household unless absolutely essential. Government advice is to stay at home as much as possible and when not at home avoid close contact with others (less than one metre). Avoid gatherings or events, or travelling on public transport.
When practicing social distancing you can still get fresh air, such as gardening, or walking your dog along a quiet lane, but must not come into close contact with others.
What is self-isolation?
Self-isolation requires you to avoid any contact with others and to remain in a physically isolated space so that you cannot transmit infection to others.
Why use 'social distancing'?
Social distancing is a strategy to prevent Coronavirus from spreading. Jersey's government says it is the most effective way to reduce the rate of infection and therefore the impact of the disease and demand on the hospital.
How should someone 'socially distance' themselves?
No kissing, shaking hands and hugging with people from outside of your household
Vulnerable adults should avoid close contact with children and grandchildren in multi-generation households
Avoid large public events and large crowds (sports and other organised activities)
Try to stay home as much as possible
Keep a distance of one meter, which is three feet, from any person who is not in your household
If you are over 65-years-old, avoid public transport at peak hours unless essential
Work from home if possible
Do not visit other households
If you absolutely must visit other households, ensure that they are not displaying symptoms and ensure you keep a safe distance
Advice also includes:
People with flu-like symptoms, including a combination of fever, a cough, muscle aches and headaches should self-isolate until they are symptom free (for a minimum of seven days).
Only undertake essential travel into and out of the island. This does not include travel for medical and compassionate purposes or travel by key workers required to keep essential services running across the island
Guidelines for large gatherings and events remain under review. It is expected they will be updated on Monday.
A local GP says the aim is to flatten the curve as its steep incline in Italy has meant medical services have been completely overwhelmed.