Decision details

In the absence of Dr Sakthi Karunanithi, Director of Public Health, the Chair of the Lancashire Outbreak Engagement Board provided a brief current situation report on the Lancashire COVID-19 outbreak.

It was reported that the current situation is deteriorating slightly both locally and nationally, particularly with areas in East Lancashire and Preston showing high rates of infections.  Discussions are taking place locally on how to ease lockdown fatigue and prevent confusing messages and ensure that the people of Lancashire are supported in understanding the messages to restrict a further rise in cases.  When requested, Dr Sakthi Karunanithi provides recommendations for Lancashire, with Central Government having the ultimate decision on what restrictions are put in place for Lancashire.

A brief update from the Lancashire Resilience Forum was that we are currently  in a place where behaviour has changed so inevitably the virus will spread and it is about ensuring the basics are maintained – socially distancing, act reasonably, wash hands and continue to protect the vulnerable as their risk increases when the virus increases.  We are in a better place with the majority of people following guidance and behaviours have changed since the start of the outbreak.  The key area of work now is winter preparation and how are the more vulnerable protected along with the NHS.

Concerns were raised regards people in care homes, particularly those with Dementia and who can visit them and a request has been made to the Director of Public Health to provide some guidance on this which will then be shared with service providers in the care homes.

Resolved:  The Board noted the update.