Manx NHS capacity is limited, so we need your help says Chief Medical Director

Sat, 21 Mar 2020

The Island’s Chief Medical Director says the health service’s capacity to deal with the coronavirus pandemic is limited.

Chief Minister Howard Quayle confirmed a second case of the disease was recorded on the Island yesterday.

Dr Rosalind Ranson has warned the Manx NHS could be overwhelmed if faced with a steep increase in the numbers of those infected with the virus.

Plans are in place to increase the number of ventilators on the Island, with six available at present.

Mr Quayle also revealed new changes, including the closures of the Villa Marina, Gaiety Theatre, and certain National Sport Centre facilities.

Schools will stay open for now, but parents can withdraw their pupils from schools without suffering penalties.

Details are also being gathered of all those arriving at sea and airports, with all arrivals required to immediately self-isolate.

Dr Ranson says it’s incredibly important the public follow the advice being given: