WHAT IS COVID-19

COVID-19 is a disease that is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which can be passed via respiratory secretions (i.e. saliva) and faeces, and which can successfully live for up to 2 to 3 days on certain surfaces. COVID-19 is an “enveloped” virus, meaning that it is surrounded by a protective layer of fats and proteins. SARs-Cov-2 is thought to be primarily transmitted via droplets through talking, coughing, and sneezing from person to person.

BE REASSURED:

The risk of transmission through contact with surfaces or items (fomite transmission) is now considered to be very low. In most instances, this risk can be mitigated through good hand hygiene and effective cleaning of surfaces.

WHAT WE WILL BE DOING

We believe we maintain a high standard of cleanliness (paying particular attention to cross-contamination) throughout Hydrangea House in all circumstances. We do this by following a Prepare, Clean, Disinfect, Check, Reset regime. We will whenever practically possible ensure the house is fully ventilated during changeovers.

Fogging: we were previously 'Fogging' the house between guests as part of our disinfection program but it is no longer recommended (Public Health England)

If you have any concerns regarding a reservation you have made, believing Fogging will be taking place, please don't hesitate to get in touch.

The WHO (World Health Organisation) no longer recommends the removal of unnecessary soft furnishings and unnecessary items.

Thankfully the Hot Tub has never been out of bounds, we use a constant flow Bromine disinfection system but please remember to follow the rules and shower before use to protect yourself and others staying with you.

WHAT YOU CAN DO:

- You should not visit Hydrangea House if you have:

COVID-19 symptoms, even if these are mild orhave recently tested positive for COVID-19

Follow the current Gov Guidelines

- Know the full range of symptoms of COVID-19. The most common symptoms of COVID-19 are fever, dry cough, tiredness, and loss of taste or smell. Less common symptoms include aches and pains, headache, sore throat, red or irritated eyes, diarrhoea, a skin rash, or discolouration of fingers or toes.

- Use the Anti-bacterial Hand Gel Station, it is recommended you use this when entering and leaving the property and continue to wash your hands frequently in between

- We've left supplies of Disinfectant wipes and spray, use as necessary

- Tissues in every room for coughs and sneezes. Catch it - Bin It - Kill it!

- If the weather allows, leave windows open to circulate fresh air whilst at home. PLEASE Don't forget to close them if you head out to explore Hythe

- Follow the procedures outlined below if anyone becomes unwell/develops symptoms during your stay and inform us straight away

We would also like to remind you about some general WHO recommendations to prevent the spread of COVID-19:

Regularly and thoroughly clean your hands with an alcohol-based hand rub or wash them with soap and water
Avoid the 3Cs: spaces that are closed, crowded, or involve close contact.
Maintain at least a 2m (6ft) distance between yourself and others
Avoid touching your face (eyes, nose, and mouth)
Cover your mouth and nose with your bent elbow or tissue when you cough or sneeze

Use the 111 online coronavirus service

Get more advice about coronavirus in children

Guidance for guests who become unwell while on holiday in England:

The government has outlined advice for people who become unwell while on holiday in England:

- Guests who develop coronavirus (COVID-19) symptoms while staying in overnight accommodation should inform the accommodation provider immediately, self-isolate and request a test by calling 119 or online at nhs.uk.

- Guests who test positive should return home as quickly and directly as possible, continuing to self-isolate until they can arrange for private transport. In most cases it will not be possible to self-isolate in the holiday accommodation and guests should arrange to return home as safely and quickly as possible.

- If the accommodation provider agrees, guests may extend their stay in order to self-isolate until they are well enough to travel. Unless otherwise provided for in contractual terms of the booking, the guest will be expected to pay the costs of an extended stay in all but exceptional circumstances.