The Penarth Healthcare Partnership surgery has updated members about their latest measures to reduce the spread of Coronavirus. Patients will now need to speak to a healthcare professional on the phone before visiting the surgery.

Yesterday, the Penarth Healthcare Partnership, which situated on Stanwell Road, said: ''Today the WHO (World Health Organisation) has declared coronavirus (COVID-19) a pandemic, this means a disease that is spreading across multiple continents.

''Coronavirus cases are increasing on a daily basis. Today the first case in Wales has been detected that has been contracted within Wales.

''We hope you understand that the practice will have to introduce temporary measures to protect both patients and staff. With immediate effect, all patients who feel they need to be seen by a healthcare professional will first be offered an appointment by phone. You will then be phoned by a Dr or nurse.

''Many problems can be dealt with by phone such as discussing test results, medication queries, sick notes etc. If the Dr or nurse feels you do need to be examined and you are free from symptoms that may suggest coronavirus you will then be offered an appointment.

''If you feel you are experiencing symptoms you must first for the NHS Wales Online Symptom Checker or by calling 111 or NHS direct.''

Today they further updated patients by stating: ''Just to reiterate the surgery is NOT closed.

''We are open and fully staffed. We are speaking to patients first before bringing them into the building.

''If they have any symptoms suggestive of Coronavirus we will be redirected to public health Wales.

''All other conditions will be seen if necessary as normal. We don't want a situation where somebody unwittingly attends surgery with symptoms of a corona and we end up having to close to deep clean.''

A spokesperson for Cardiff and Vale University Health Board said: "We've advised practices in Cardiff and the Vale to manage their services as they feel appropriate, adhering to guidance from Public Health Wales where suitable, in response to the evolving Covid-19 situation. 

"A number of Medical Centres are asking patients to call ahead to book appointments until further notice. Each practice in Cardiff and the Vale will be reviewing and adapting their approach, if needed, on a daily basis and will communicate this to their patients as and when updates are available."

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