A GROUP of young people in the Winchester area have tested positive for coronavirus having returned from a holiday abroad, local health officials say.

Hampshire County Council has said the group have been advised to self isolate with their households.

A report from the BBC says that the group is made up of 12 people who have recently returned from Crete, but the council did not confirm this.

Greece is not currently on the list of countries with quarantine restrictions for UK travellers.

Simon Bryant, Hampshire County Council’s director of public health, said: “We are aware that a number of young people from the Winchester area who have recently returned from abroad have tested positive for coronavirus.

"Anyone testing positive will be advised to self isolate for 10 days, and their household contacts advised to self isolate for 14. Any additional contacts will be followed up by the NHS Test and Trace service, and given advice as appropriate."

He added: “Overall, we are seeing small increases in the numbers testing positive for coronavirus across Hampshire, but compared to the England average, the numbers remain very low, including in Winchester. While there’s no cause for the community to be concerned, it’s absolutely critical that anyone returning from countries on the quarantine list, self isolates for the full 14 days to ensure they minimise the risk of passing on the virus.

“We all have a part to play in keeping Hampshire safe, protecting ourselves and those we love – please make sure you play yours!”

Public Health England figures show that 514 people have been confirmed as testing positive for Covid-19 by 9am on Monday (August 31) in the Winchester district.

Cumulative case counts include patients who are currently unwell, have recovered and those that have died.

https://www.hampshirechronicle.co.uk/news/18692983.coronavirus-winchester-hampshire-daily-round-up/