A SECOND Tetbury resident has tested positive for Coronavirus.

Cotswold District Council has confirmed that two people in the Tetbury area have contracted the virus.

The first person in the county to test positive for the virus was a member of staff at St Mary's Primary School who became infected whilst in Northern Italy.

Gloucestershire County Council has confirmed both cases are linked together.

The leader of Cotswold District Council is asking residents of the district to stay calm and to remain vigilant following the news.

Cllr Joe Harris spoke to reassure people that everything which could be done to manage the situation is being done, saying: “Cotswold District Council is working closely with our partners at Public Health England and the county council to safeguard the health of residents here in the district and I am confident that our tried and tested plans for dealing with emergencies mean that everything that can be done is happening.

“I’d like to ask for the support of everyone here in the Cotswolds in making sure everyone does their bit to help.

"Together we can make sure that everyone knows the importance of good hygiene – regular hand washing and covering your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough - as well as where to go for the most up-to-date advice.

“If you have recently been to one of the affected areas and have symptoms including a cough, high temperature or shortness of breath, you should phone the NHS 111 helpline for further advice straight away – please don’t go to your doctor or a hospital.”

Debra Lapthorne, Centre Director for Public Health England South West, said: “Public Health England is contacting people who had close contact with the two confirmed cases of COVID-19.

"The two cases are linked and both became infected whilst in Northern Italy. Staff from PHE have continued to support St Mary’s Primary School, Tetbury, where one of the cases works.

“Close contacts for both cases are being given health advice about symptoms and emergency contact details to use if they become unwell in the 14 days after contact with either of the confirmed cases. 

"This tried and tested method will ensure we are able to minimise any risk to them and the wider public. 

"If you have not been contacted by Public Health England, you do not need to take any action at this time.”