HOSPITAL bosses in East Lancashire are making preparations in case they receive a suspected case of coronavirus.
Deputy chief executive of East Lancashire Hospitals Trust Martin Hodgson said staff are reviewing procedures so they can provide a 'safe and effective response'.
He said: "As you will no doubt be aware there continues to be a significant amount of information issued nationally and internationally around the evolving novel coronavirus, an outbreak which the World Health Organisation has now declared a global emergency.
"As of January 30, it has been reported that around 7,816 people worldwide have been identified with respiratory infections caused by 2019-nCoV, and sadly 170 deaths.
"In the UK, out of 192 test results, only two individuals have tested positive, who have now been transported to a specialist unit in Newcastle.
"The Department of Health and Social Care, alongside Public Health England, continue to issue evolving guidance and advice to NHS trusts and partner agencies in relation to the identification and treatment of those patients suspected to be infected by the virus.
"Both regionally and locally, ELHT and other healthcare providers are reviewing plans and preparations to ensure that we can provide a safe and effective response in the event that we receive a suspected case of the novel coronavirus."
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