We are all in this together now. The virus is spreading but the nation is rising to the challenge.

The closing of schools was vital. Pubs, clubs, gyms and non essential shops too. Your local NHS is getting ready for the coming peak.

The best site for information is www.nhs.uk/coronavirus

If you have a new continuous cough or fever above 37.8 stay at home for the time specified.

High risk groups for self isolation are listed. If you later find it hard to breath then contact NHS111, preferably online.

All GP surgeries have moved to 100% phone triage of requests for visits or appointments.

We have stopped all non-essential check ups and routine recall.

It is important not to attend surgeries unless your doctor has contacted you back and arranged an exact time for you to attend. This is to stop the spread. Here are things to help for non-coronavirus matters.

1. Put prescription requests in letter box or better still; do this online. The best way is to register with your practice for online access to your records. You can then ask for repeat medication . Evergreen is an app for this you can download.

2. Give us a nominated pharmacy so we can send scripts electronically.

3. Use eConsult tool on the practice website. Here you can enter your symptoms and your GP will reply within 48 hours.

4. The phones are very busy. So if you cannot use the alternative methods of contact there may be a wait for calls to be answered. Please be patient. We are all still here dealing with calls.

This disease will be beaten when we stop it spreading.

Stay home everyone ( but key workers ) as in staying put you are saving lives.

Cllr Dr Jon Orrell

Crescent Street

Weymouth