RESIDENTS of a borough have been given advice on keeping our homes well-ventilated this winter to curb the spread of coronavirus.

Households in Blackburn with Darwen have been warned that Covid-19 is an airborne virus that will thrive as more people stay indoors because of the cold weather.

Laura Wharton, a consultant in public health with the authority said: "We know that in poorly-ventilated rooms the amount of virus in the air can build up, increasing the risk of spreading not only Covid-19 but also colds and flu - especially if there are infected people in the room.

"Viruses can remain in the air after an infected person has left, but regularly opening doors and windows definitely help to dilute virus particles and replace stale air with fresh air.

"As we head into winter, transmission at home is going to be more of a problem for homes with several people living together.

"I’d encourage everyone to follow this simple advice to help keep everyone safe."

Cllr Mohammed Khan, leader of Blackburn with Darwen Council, said: "As we head into the typical cold and flu season, when viruses circulate, we would like to keep our Covid case rates down. Keeping our homes well-ventilated is one simple thing we can all do."

Ms Wharton also recommended opening the top part of sash windows, ensuring trickle vents and grilles are open and not blocked, and opening windows and doors at opposite sides of homes to provide a good through flow of fresh air.