STEETON Surgery has been closed due to "resourcing issues" as the coronavirus crisis continues to bite.

Self-isolating by staff from the Chapel Road site has led to services being switched to the sister practice in Elliot Street, Silsden.

A notice posted on the Steeton and Silsden Medical Practice website says: "Due to resourcing issues caused by staff absence due to coronavirus and to ensure patient safety, we have taken the difficult but necessary decision to close the Steeton site temporarily. Steeton Pharmacy remains open."

Dr James Thomas, clinical chairman of NHS Bradford district and Craven clinical commissioning groups, stresses that the practice is continuing to provide health and care services to its patients.

"The practice has moved all of the services it provides to Silsden Surgery," he said. "Wherever possible, staff are working remotely to ensure services continue to be delivered."

Dr Thomas added: "To help combat the spread of coronavirus and follow the ‘social distancing’ national guidance, GP practices are continually looking at how services can be delivered to meet the needs of their patients – especially the most vulnerable – whilst also maintaining the wellbeing of staff.

"Patients may see some changes to the way they access health and care services, for example some appointments may be offered via telephone or video consultations where appropriate.

"Everyone can do their bit to help stop coronavirus spreading. This includes continuing to wash hands regularly and sneezing or coughing into a tissue and then putting used tissues in the bin straight away.

"People are advised to stay at home for seven days if they have either a high temperature or a new continuous cough, which means you have started coughing repeatedly. Please do not go to a GP surgery, pharmacy or hospital. If you live with other people, you should stay at home for 14 days from the day the first person got symptoms.

"The latest advice is particularly important for people who are aged 70 or over, have a long-term condition, are pregnant or have a weakened immune system.

"If your symptoms are serious, or get worse, NHS 111 has an online coronavirus service that can tell you if you need further medical help and advise you what to do. Only call 111 if you are advised to do so by the online service or you cannot go online.

"I would urge people to read the latest, trusted information which can be found online at nhs.uk/coronavirus.

"People who have other health needs or feel unwell can find information on common illnesses and injuries by visiting the NHS website at nhs.uk. The site also includes a services finder to help people find the most appropriate local service nearest to them."