A positive case of Covid-19 has been identified in Alderney through contact tracing.
The individual was self-isolating at the time of being tested positive, and is at home continuing with their self-isolation. Public Health Services and the States of Guernsey are working closely with Alderney’s health service and the States of Alderney to ensure they are fully supported.
Contact tracing has already been carried out and Public Health are confident that there are no further contacts of this case outside of their household. There is a very low risk of further spread of the virus in Alderney.
Alderney, like the rest of the Guernsey Bailiwick, has been in lockdown since the 23rd January with all Islanders needing to stay at home except for essential reasons or their two hours outdoor recreation, carried out only with their household, or socially distanced with one other person. Face coverings are also strongly recommended when leaving the house.
Alderney residents need to continue following the lockdown rules, but there is no need for them to do anything differently as a result of this case. As ever, anyone who develops any symptoms however mild, should phone the clinical helpline on 01481 756938 or 01481 756969, or phone their GP.
Alderney has also already made very good progress in rolling out its vaccine programme, with more than 700 elderly and at risk Islanders having already received their first dose.
Dr Nicola Brink, Director of Public Health, said “I’m sure this will be worrying news for Alderney residents if only because it is the first positive case since the pandemic began. But I really want to reassure the community.
“Because we identified this person early as a potential contact, they have been self-isolating for several days. Coupled with how Alderney is already in lockdown, we have been able to complete our contact tracing assessment very quickly and confirmed there are no further contacts outside of the household. But that is not a reason to be complacent, anyone who develops even the mildest symptoms should still report them immediately.
“We have worked closely with the team at the Island Medical Centre from the start of the pandemic and they will ensure that the person concerned will receive the appropriate clinical care, if they need it.”
William Tate, President of the States of Alderney, said “Our community have been excellent in following lockdown rules and doing the right thing since this second Bailiwick-wide lockdown began and that’s put us in a good
place as this first positive case comes to light. I’m extremely reassured by the encouraging outcome of the contact tracing work carried out overnight. All I ask of Alderney residents is to keep doing what you’re doing, follow the lockdown rules, go out as little as you can and keep your distance and wear a face covering when you
are out. Report any symptoms, no matter how mild. That was our message before and it’s our message now.”
