AS THE diagnosed cases of coronavirus have risen from 34 to 85 across the UK, there has been panic-buying of hand gels and masks in Bromsgrove, Rubery and south Birmingham, writes Caprice Harrison.
NHS England declared coronavirus as a level four threat and it is in need of emergency planning.
Anand Sodha is the director at Knight’s Pharmacy which has a branch in Bromsgrove, Rubery and Northfield.
She said: “Locally, we have a minimal amount of stock, we have 70 branches in our region and more than 50 per cent are out of stock.
“We should have a delivery of anti-bacterial gel, wipes and face masks distributed over the 70 branches for this week.
“Though, it is on a while stocks last basis.”
The depleting of hand gel and sanitiser stocks has also been widely-reported across the region and nationwide.
Public Health England has raised the coronavirus threat level from ‘low’ to ‘moderate’ and there are reports of people panic-buying hand-sanitiser.
Anand added: “There is a shortage of hand-sanitisers, so hand washing is key and it must be done constantly, especially after coming from a public place.
“We advise people to stay fit and healthy and to follow the local and national news.”
The pharmacy has had inquiries from the Bromsgrove residents over the virus and has reiterated the importance to follow the NHS guidelines, as well as taking advice from the pharmacists, who are well educated on the subject.
The coronavirus spreads via cough droplets.
People are advised to catch a sneezes or coughs into a tissue and dispose of it in a closed lid bin and follow it by washing their hands.
Hands should be washed in hot soapy water and the Government suggests singing the ‘Happy Birthday’ song twice to ensure an adequate length of washing has taken place.
The Government on its website – gov.uk – advises people to continue going to work, school and public places.
The symptoms of coronavirus are very similar to a chest infection.
Anyone who has symptoms should call NHS 111 service is the first port of call.
For more information visit www.nhs.co.uk or www.gov.uk/coronavirus.
