Issue - meetings

To approve the Terms of Reference for the Board.

Dr Sakthi Karunanithi, Director of Public Health, Lancashire County Council, outlined the proposal to create a Lancashire Outbreak Engagement Board as part of the Outbreak Control Plan.

In outlining the proposals, Dr Karunanithi, noted that the latest Covid-19 statistics showed an improvement in the number of cases and deaths, although it was stressed that Lancashire had experienced higher rates of infection than other areas during the earlier stages of the pandemic. It was also stressed that the virus remained a very serious concern, and continued vigilance and observance of social distancing and handwashing was essential. It was also reported that there had been significant improvements in the data available at a local level, allowing a rapid response to hotspots and outbreaks, including in care and health settings.

In response to questions, it was noted that currently there was no data on asymptomatic cases, although there was a wider estimate that around 10% of the population had at some point been infected. In relation to testing, it was reported that, whilst there was no formal data on the turnaround for results, around 50% of results were being received within 48 hours, and NHS labs were generally providing results within 24 hours. It was further noted that there were no published figures for "R" rates at district level, but that the R rate was considered to be of less use as the total number of infections declined. A range of other data and intelligence was used to assess and measure the position across Lancashire, and that overall the positon was positive, although with a caveat that the situation needed continued attention and endeavour.

It was noted that the VCFS had played a significant role in the efforts to tackle Covid-19 and support individuals and communities, and that this work would continue through the wider LRF work.

Resolved: That the Terms of Reference for the Lancashire Outbreak Engagement Board as set out at Appendix A be approved.