West Sussex Coronavirus "Yellow" Alert

All of West Sussex is now subject to a "yellow alert" based on the rising number of Covid-19 cases.

The County Council said this afternoon (September 17) that there must now be a rise in local alertness regarding the pandemic, although the local increase is in line with rises being seen nationally.

Official figures from County Hall said there were 116 confirmed cases in West Sussex in the last seven days.

The "yellow alert" is part of a "traffic light" system used by the County Council, though with four colours: green, yellow, amber and red.

Its aim is to keep residents informed about the current rate of confirmed cases of Covid-19 in the county.

As a result of the rise in cases, County Hall today asked residents to step up preventative action to stop the spread of the virus.

This includes following the "Rule of Six", meaning meetings in groups of more than six people from outside your household are banned, both indoors and outdoors.

Residents should continue to wash hands regularly, practise social distancing, wear a face mask when appropriate and get tested if symptoms appear.

Amanda Jupp, West Sussex County Council Cabinet Member for Adults and Health, said:

"So far in West Sussex we have seen a relatively low number of cases of coronavirus.

"However in line with national trends there has been an increase in recent weeks of the number of people who have tested positive.

"It is important we do all we can to keep numbers as low as possible.

"In line with government guidance, please do not meet in groups of more than six people.

"It is also important to continue to wash your hands regularly, keep socially distanced, wear a face mask where appropriate and get tested when you have symptoms."

The Traffic-Light System

The decision to move to a different level is made by the West Sussex COVID-19 Health Protection Board.

Green - Outbreak prevention and containment

Confirmed cases are low. Residents should keep washing hands, social distancing, wearing face coverings where advised and limiting groups to six people to control the virus.

Yellow - Raised local alertness

There are an increasing number of confirmed cases of coronavirus. To slow the virus residents should continue to practise social distancing, wear face coverings where advised, limit contact between households and follow the 'rule of six'. The County Council will increase targeted communications to support people in making extra efforts to reduce their risk.

Amber - Raised local concern

Confirmed cases have reached a level of concern. This is one step away from national government becoming directly involved. The County Council is likely to make recommendations around reducing levels of contact between individuals and highlight groups and settings that are particularly affected so people can make extra efforts to reduce their risk.

Red - National oversight

Confirmed cases are at a very high level. There will be increased levels of involvement and support from national and regional government and other bodies. If the numbers increase to certain levels there is the possibility of introducing restrictions and lockdowns in areas of the county.