Easing restrictions brings added threat of virus
The North East LA7 leaders, representing Newcastle, Gateshead, Northumberland, North Tyneside, South Tyneside, Sunderland, and County Durham, have warned that with the easing of restrictions come more opportunities for the virus to spread.
A statement said: “As with previous steps taken to ease restrictions, we must all remember that by reintroducing freedoms into our lives, we are also presenting further opportunities for Covid-19 to spread.
“Everyone has made sacrifices in the fight against the virus, and by doing so we have collectively reduced the spread of Covid-19 and brought infection rates right down.
“However, the virus is still with us and in all likelihood we will have to learn to live with it for a considerable time yet.”
Hair salons, barbers, gyms and leisure centres are opening their doors today, which means people will be mixing indoors.
Leaders have urged people socialising not to be reckless and said regular hand washing and face coverings remain essential in the fight against Covid.
The latest coronavirus infection figures, from PA Media, show that in Sunderland the rate was, 34.2, or 95 new cases, and the previous week’s rate was 59.1, or 164 new cases.
Businesses, that have been hit hard by the past 12 month’s series of extended closures, also have a part to play say the politicians.
The statement said lengthy closures had been ” incredibly tough” on businesses, but staff had a responsibility to follow the rules. And leaders stressed that vaccinations do not mean people can forget their responsibilities.