RESIDENTS of a borough are being advised to prepare a plan for self-isolation in case they, a family member or friend is diagnosed with coronavirus.

Staying at home is the government advice for those who test positive or are contacts of a confirmed Covid-19 case as it bids to control the spread of the infection while easing lockdown restrictions.

Blackburn with Darwen Council has issued advice on self isolation on its Shuttle website.

Rebecca Ramsay, the borough's service lead for prevention, said: “Anybody in your household could need to self-isolate with little warning so our advice is to have a plan in place in advance.

“Self-isolation can happen to anyone and it helps to be prepared. Take this opportunity to have a conversation with your family, friends and neighbours to see how you can help each other if required.”

Residents are being urged to consider how they would access food, who would walk their pets, who may be able to go shopping on their behalf, and whether they’re able to work from home.

Dominic Harrison, Blackburn with Darwen Council's director public health, said: “The challenge to self-isolate if positive for coronavirus will be with us as long as the virus is present in our community. Apart from vaccinations, self-isolation is the government’s biggest defence to control the spread.”