Pointing finger of blame does not help

WITH any problem it is always easy to be wise after the event.

Earlier in the year patients were moved from hospitals to care homes. This proved to be a disaster. We have learned the lesson and will not repeat it.

It appears that there is a possibility of a third wave in January.

After checking all the facts and information it is now widely accepted that students returning to university was a contributory factor in causing the second wave.

If the third wave arrives in January it will be at the worst possible time.

January is the peak of the flu season. The NHS is normally overwhelmed at this time.

With families having Christmas and New Year gatherings, it all points to it being the worst possible time for a third wave.

When the universities reopen in January the arrival of the students may make a bad situation worse.

Now is the time for all concerned, be they university managers, the local council, local hospitals and students to work out a procedure to limit the effects of a third wave hitting the city in the new year.

This may entail a rigorous testing programme. It may need a period of quarantine.

However, we must start the consultations now if we are to have an adequate plan of action for the new year.

Hopefully all of those involved are already in talks to try and find a solution to the problems that occurred in October.

We must do all we can to avoid a repeat in January.

No one wants to point the finger of blame.

What happened happened. We must all work together to make sure that it never happens again. Especially in January. The worst possible time.

Keith Langley Nottingham