GPs and primary care staff in Somerset are appealing to the public to help them to keep people as safe as possible in these exceptional circumstances.

Their aim is for ’business as usual’ while taking account of the challenges faces by themselves and the communities they serve.

Dr Emma Keane, GP and associate clinical director of primary care, Somerset Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG), said: “We know that the coronavirus outbreak is causing anxiety and concern in our local communities.

“We would like to assure everyone that NHS health and care staff across Somerset are here to provide GP and primary care services in as normal a way as possible during this challenging time.

“As a precaution to protect patients, staff and the public, GP appointments across the county will be triaged online or over the phone to make sure that patients are cared for by the right person, in the right place for their illness.

“GP surgery doors will be kept open wherever possible and where people need to be seen face to face, they will be.”

She said that, for most people, coronavirus will be a mild infection – but however mild, people should stay at home and not leave the house for seven days from when symptoms started.

The symptoms are either a high temperature or a new continuous cough.

Those living with others should stay at home for 14 days from the day the first person got symptoms. This action will help protect others in the community during the infectious period.

“There are several things that people can do to help us keep services running well,” she added.

“Anyone who is unwell should to go NHS 111 online first for advice rather than approaching their GP practice.

“People can also help by using the NHSApp and other online services where they can. Each GP practice website has links to a range of online services which will support people to access advice and information and, in most cases, order repeat prescriptions online.

“For parents and carers of babies and young children, the HandiApp offers simple and straightforward advice.”

Patients can also help doctors by only requesting their usual supply of medications when required and not try and do it early or order extra. This will help the supply chain keep up with demand.

“We will make sure suitable provision is made for people self isolating owing to illness or being in at risk groups,” said Dr Keane.

“Everyone must stay at home to help stop the spread of coronavirus. This includes people of all ages – even if they do not have any symptoms or other health conditions.”