‘We’re treading a fine line’
Health expert warns of lockdown danger
Bath and North East Somerset is in “real danger” of going into lockdown if people ignore the rules, leaders have warned.
Dr Bruce Laurence, B&NES council’s public health director, said if the district is to remain in the medium Tier 1 alert level everyone must limit non-essential mixing and avoid crowded places.
With Halloween approaching, he urged families not to go out trick or treating to reduce the risk of transmitting the virus and protect vulnerable residents who may be shielding.
B&NES recorded the highest increase in cases across the county in the 24 hours to Tuesday, with 68 new positive results.
Dr Laurence said: “We are treading a fine line and there is a real danger that we could see Bath and North East Somerset follow other areas which are now in the higher alert levels.
“So our message is clear - it is only through each and every one of us taking action to prevent further spread of this disease that we can hope to stay outside the local lockdown measures.
“We should all be prudent and cautious, but if we follow guidance, we need not be fearful.
“We are at the medium level of alert and there is no strict rule about households mixing beyond the rule of six.
“But if we want to remain out of lockdown, we should all limit nonessential mixing between households as much as possible, and certainly avoid crowded places where people are not being careful about their behaviour. Please ask yourself, whenever you are mixing with others or going out, is this necessary? Is this safe? Is the benefit worth the risk to me and to others?”
He urged people to follow the guidance on hand-washing, wearing face coverings, social distancing and limiting gatherings. They should follow instructions from test and trace officials.
Anyone with symptoms should self-isolate and book a test on 119 or online at nhs.uk/coronavirus.
Council leader Dine Romero added: “I want to reassure residents that where there are cases our public health team is working with Public Health England and those affected to ensure the measures are put in place to control the virus.
“But we are in real danger of lockdown if people don’t follow the rules.
“Our hub on 0800 247 0050 can help with food and medication and provide support if you are vulnerable, isolated, lonely or anxious”
The hub, a collaboration between Virgin Care, 3SG, NHS and the council, has so far received more than 8,000 calls for help with more than 2,000 tasks such as helping with food and medicines carried out by volunteers.
Please ask yourself, whenever you are mixing with others or going out, is this necessary? Is this safe? Is the benefit worth the risk to me and to others? Dr Bruce Laurence