‘We must not ever be complacent’ as virus rears its head again
RESIDENTS ARE WARNED AFTER GOVERNMENT’S STERN WARNING
RESIDENTS have been urged to heed the government’s warning after the government’s chief scientific officer said the UK could potentially face 50,000 cases a day.
The warning comes as Covid rates are rising around the country, which faces strict measures to contain local outbreaks.
Sir Patrick Vallance warned at a press conference yesterday the pandemic could be causing 200 deaths a day by mid-October if the current rate continues. He and Chief Medical Officer Professor Chris Whitty hinted that social gatherings could be the first to face restrictions - and new measures may be in place for six months. Health officials in North East Lincolnshire have urged the public to continue following government advice in order to keep coronavirus numbers low. Geoff Barnes, deputy director for public health at North East Lincolnshire Council, said: “We’ve done really well so far in sticking to the guidance – we need to keep going and must not become complacent.
“The increasing numbers of cases are a concerning reminder that the virus has not gone away.
“The briefing has re-enforced what we’ve been saying about the need for people to keep following the guidance – keep a two metre social distance from all those that you do not live with. Wash your hands frequently – especially before and after eating food or touching your face, and wear a mask when going into enclosed public spaces.
“If we do all of these things, the risk of catching and spreading the virus reduces dramatically.”
North East Lincolnshire’s current rate of Covid infections is 6.3 cases per 100,000, among the 20 lowest in the country.
However, the figures have increased between one and 10 over the last three week period, as have most areas of the North and Midlands, according to figures from the Downing Street briefing. Concerns have also been raised over a ‘selfish minority’ that continue to flout rules in areas of Cleethorpes, where they are packing into venues and not social distancing. Councillor Callison warned: “Most in Cleethorpes are keeping to the rules. The ones that aren’t are being visited so we get it right. They are places which are not enforcing social distancing or not providing enough hand sanitiser or just a general drop in standards. “There are some venues that are jam packed and not keeping distances. Others are doing a fantastic job and we praise them for it. We have to be sticklers of the rules for the benefit of others.”
The Prime Minster is expected to address the nation today on the next steps.