Issue - meetings

10.1       The Board considered a report providing an update on the latest version of the East Sussex Outbreak Control Plan (OCP)

10.2       The Board asked whether the Plan can support the work around other communicable diseases such as monkey pox or seasonal flu.

10.3       Darrell Gale explained this is the OCP for COVID-19, however, there are other diseases like avian flu or monkey pox – along with seasonal outbreaks of measles, norovirus and flu – that could be dealt with through advice from the UK Health Security Agency, knowledge obtained through developing the OCP, and the skills and resources of local Public Health teams.

10.4       The Board asked whether, with such high infection rates of COVID-19, guidance for the public on what to consider would be worthwhile.

10.5       Darrell Gale said Public Health has adopted a ‘Covid Calm’ approach over the spring and summer which involves not responding to every rise in cases with action, simply because it is recognised greater harm will happen in the autumn when other diseases and colder weather are present. Some nudging messages have been put out, however, around recognising small changes people can make to reflect the situation and think about others. the DPH said if these are not reaching people, then further consideration could be given how best to promote them.

10.6       The Board asked why more council meetings could not be held online, particularly for more vulnerable members, given the continued infection rates of COVID-19.

10.7       Cllr Keith Glazier explained that, following the expiration of temporary regulations that allowed remote meetings, the law prevents meetings from taking place remotely, so committee members must meet in person in order to take decisions. ESCC responded to a Government consultation on the matter – requesting the power to determine which meetings should be in person, remote or hybrid – however, the Government has not responded to the consultation feedback to date. ESCC, through the Local Government Association and County Council Network, continues to lobby the Government for a response.

10.8       The Board RESOLVED to:

1)   approve the update of the East Sussex Outbreak Control Plan contained in Appendix 1; and

2)  agree to stop receiving updates of the East Sussex Outbreak Control Plan