SOLIHULL Council is planning for ‘all eventualities’ to tackle coronavirus, according to a statement released by its leader Coun Ian Courts.
Coun Courts praised the borough’s ‘strong communities’ but warned against residents panic buying.
Grocers have said there will be no shortages of supplies.
In a statement released this morning (March 10), Coun Courts said: “Covid-19 (Coronavirus) is now dominating the media, and all our attention, and I wanted to reassure you about the action that the council is taking.
“As you might expect, we are preparing as well as we realistically can in the light of a fast-moving set of events.
“Council officers are working closely with the NHS and other local organisations, including our schools, to respond to the changing situation as it emerges.
“We currently remain in the “containment” phase of the response to Covid-19 and are following government guidance; our aim is to ensure that wherever possible, the Council continues to deliver the services that you expect and need.
“We have to be realistic, as it is only a matter of time before we think we will have confirmed cases in Solihull. I want to stress to you that, for the majority of people, Covid-19 will be a mild illness. Most people will be able to look after themselves at home with easily available over-the-counter treatments.
“However, some people will be hit harder by Covid-19, which may put very significant pressure on the NHS and our care services. That is why we are busily planning for all eventualities. In the meantime, I do encourage everyone to continue to follow Public Heath England’s (PHE) advice about hand hygiene; it is a practical and effective way of preventing the passing on of viruses and bacteria, including Covid-19.
“Misinformation can be a real problem, so please do make sure you look for trusted sources of information. The NHS and PHE are the experts, so follow their advice as we are at the Council.
“We are keeping our website up-to-date with new advice or information as it becomes available.
“Also, everyone can access 111 online or call 111, if you or a family member is feeling ill with Covid-19 type symptoms – we’re aware the lines can be busy so please be patient.
“Retailers have emphasised that there will not be any shortages of food and supplies if people buy what they need and do not indulge in stockpiling.
“There really isn’t any need to buy excessive quantities: doing so will be counter-productive and will encourage others to panic-buy.
“In Solihull, we are blessed with strong communities across the borough and I urge everyone to look out for their neighbours, especially the elderly and vulnerable. Do ask if there is anything you can do to support them at this time.
“The safety and wellbeing of everyone in Solihull is our utmost concern and rest assured that council officers and councillors will do all we can in the coming weeks and months to keep Solihull safe and allow life to continue as normal. We hope you will support us in this.”
