HEALTH chiefs in the region are reminding residents about the best ways to stay safe and reduce the risk of spreading the virus, and in doing so, save lives.
It follows the contiuning fall in Covid-19 infection rates across the majority of England and the further easing of lockdown measures including the reopeing of pubs and restaurants.
The new government guidelines also mean people can meet in groups of up to two households in any location and people can stay overnight away from their home with members of one other household.
Dr David Spraggett, chair at NHS South Warwickshire Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG), said: “It’s been a very difficult time for people, especially more so when being separated from family and friends. However, as the lockdown is relaxed, it’s still vital to limit the number of people you see – the more people you mix with, the more chances we give the virus to spread.
“More shops, restaurants, pubs, visitor attractions, libraries, places of worship and hotels are opening and it’s really important that everyone remembers that frequent hand washing, using face coverings and where it is possible keep two metres (three steps) apart. Where this is not possible people should keep a social distance of one metre plus to help reduce the risk of transmitting coronavirus.”
Dr Imogen Staveley, deputy chair at NHS Warwickshire North CCG, said: “As lockdown eases, more people will be out and about and it’s essential to keep following the guidelines. If you can, avoid using public transport and aim to walk, cycle or drive to your destinations instead. If you do need to use public transport you must wear a face covering. As it is not possible to socially distance during car journeys, avoid travelling in a car with someone who is not in your household.
“Remember to wash your hands when you come back from the shops or work and use hand sanitiser gel if soap and water are not available. This will help to protect you and anyone you meet and is critical to keeping everyone safe.”
Dr Sarah Raistrick, chair at NHS Coventry and Rugby CCG, added: “If you are clinically vulnerable, meaning that you could be at higher risk of severe illness from coronavirus, you can now meet people outdoors and indoors but you need to be especially careful about social distancing and hand hygiene.
“We must all follow the guidance to reduce the risk of people getting ill with coronavirus. By doing this, you are helping to protect yourself, your family, the NHS and your community.”
Anyone with any symptoms of coronavirus – a high temperature, a persistent cough or a loss of taste or smell – should self-isolate at home and call 119 to arrange a test.
And people must also self-isolate if advised to do so by the NHS Test and Trace service as they have been in contact with someone who has tested positive.
