It’s up to us all to avert a 2nd wave

We do not use the word miracle lightly, but intensive care nurse Kate Foxall’s story is truly miraculous. After going through gruelling cancer treatment, she had just a 10 per cent chance of conceiving – but conceive she did.

Then husband Daniel caught Covid-19, and in the final two weeks of pregnancy Kate fell ill with the virus too. Two weeks after their baby was born, the little mite also succumbed.

Today we are delighted to report that mum, dad and baby Ostara are fully recovered.

We are also pleased to offer a glimmer of hope that the disease might be weakening.

Scientists want to find out why, when a care home in Northants was infected, 36 patients and staff only suffered mild symptoms.

There is some evidence from Italy that the virus is getting less strong there too.

But that doesn’t mean we should be complacent and drop our guard.

The big test will come next Saturday when pubs, restaurants, hotels, hairdressers, campsites, caravan parks and cinemas reopen.

Life will be better but far from normal. There will be restrictions. Social distancing must be maintained. You will be able to go to places of worship – but not to sing in them.

This is the moment when suppressing the virus will be largely down to the good sense of the British people. The boneheads who crammed beaches last week or careered into each other at illegal raves show how easy it is to, well, lose our heads.

At last we will be able to enjoy the company of friends and family again. But only by obeying the rules. Otherwise we will face a second wave, which could be worse than the first, and be in lockdown all over again.

We can defeat this disease together. But only by staying apart.

TARGET