Councillor steps in to scotch coronavirus rumour

Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon Councillor Declan McAlinden said he had been asked to intervene on behalf of the family of a person rumoured to have the illness.

He said: “Over these last few days there have been rumours that a person in the Derrytrasna area has contracted the Coronavirus.

“The parents of this person have contacted me to stress that these allegations are totally untrue and without foundation and are causing great stress and upset to the family concerned!

“I want to stress that the person concerned has never been tested and has none of the symptoms to even warrant a test and has not been advised to ‘Self Isolate’!”

On that basis I would plead to people in the community to please refrain from commenting any further on this particular issue.

He went on: “I understand people are worried and concerned about this virus and I would advise them to follow all guidance given by the PHA but equally be mindful that untrue allegations can have a devastating effect on a family.”