Cheshire East Council is asking residents to continue to follow social distancing guidance and observe other measures to reduce the risk of Covid-19 infection.

This follows news of increased rates of infection and lockdown measures in Greater Manchester, East Lancashire and West Yorkshire.

Dr Matt Tyrer, acting director of public health at Cheshire East Council said: "While the infection rate in Cheshire East remains generally low, we cannot be complacent and the news from elsewhere in the country should be a reminder to us all.

"We all should try and stay at least two metres apart from anyone we do not live with. Wear a face covering if you can – you must do so on public transport, in shops and when you go to hospital appointments. (Some people do not have to wear a face covering, such as children under three and people with certain health conditions.)

"Wash your hands with soap and water often and for at least 20 seconds. Do this as soon as you get home. Where soap and water are not available, use hand sanitiser. Avoid touching your face.

"If you develop any coronavirus symptoms, self-isolate and book a Covid-19 test through the NHS test and trace system. If you have been in close contact with someone who has tested positive for Covid-19, you'll be alerted by the NHS test and trace service. This alert will come to you either by text, phone call or email and you'll be given instructions to contact the NHS test and trace service and begin to self-isolate.

"You must then self-isolate for up to 14 days, even if you aren't symptomatic, because it can take up to 14 days for symptoms to appear. If you then start to develop coronavirus symptoms you should book a test.

"The measures you have to take may vary depending on your circumstances, for example, if you are returning home from certain countries, or if you have certain health conditions.

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"By following these measures, you will be protecting yourself, your family, your friends and our community.

"The council, with its partners, has a comprehensive outbreak prevention, management and support plan in place and we continue to monitor and manage reports of local infections.

"I would like to thank residents for their efforts to reduce the risk of infection."