Wuhan novel coronavirus: Advice for the NHS in England

Written by admin on Friday 31st January 2020

The Chief Medical Officer for England has issued an alert for all clinical staff encountering patients with respiratory infections who have arrived from overseas


There have been reported cases in China of respiratory infections caused by a novel coronavirus, most reported cases are at the mild end of the spectrum, with no confirmed cases in the UK.

Public Health England has issued guidance on the management of a suspected case of Wuhan novel coronavirus.

This alert and pathway outline the initial assessment questions to identify a patient who may require isolation and testing. All primary and secondary healthcare providers should make arrangements for such patients to be identified immediately and isolated according to the PHE guidance. The current patient pathway is for assessment in airborne isolation in an acute trust, followed by testing and a period of isolation (at home or in hospital) whilst awaiting the results.

Further details, advice and actions for pharmacists, and those in primary and secondary care is documented below: