Public Health bosses across the Black Country are urging the public not to use buses, trains and trams unless absolutely necessary in order to help stop the spread of coronavirus.

Only critical workers or people collecting essential food and medicine supplies should be using public transport.  

In a joint statement, the Directors of Public Health for Dudley, Sandwell, Walsall and the City of Wolverhampton Councils said: “Our advice to the public could not be more simple.

“Please do not travel on public transport unless it is absolutely essential. We understand it is a difficult time, but by cutting out unnecessary travel we can reduce the risk to those who have to travel, as well as helping to slow the spread of Coronavirus.

“It is also particularly important that people with symptoms of coronavirus are following national advice to stay at home. Anyone who is symptomatic of coronavirus and is required to attend an essential medical appointment should speak to their health and care professional and not use public transport, including taxis to travel to appointments.”

The latest information and guidance around coronavirus is available at GOV.UK and on the council’s own coronavirus pages at Coronavirus advice and information. There’s lots of advice on how people can protect themselves and their families from coronavirus from the NHS at Advice for everyone  - Coronavirus (COVID-19).

The council’s Stay Safe, Be Kind campaign offers clear and simple advice about how people can help themselves, and how they can support others who may be particularly vulnerable at this time. For more information, please visit Stay Safe Be Kind.