People urged to take steps this Christmas to help protect against spreading Covid-19
As investigations continue into the impact of the newly discovered Omicron variant, health chiefs advise taking simple steps to keep transmission to a minimum and to ensure a safer Christmas for everyone...
HEALTH chiefs in Staffordshire and Stoke-on-trent are urging people to take extra precautions this Christmas to prevent Covid-19 from spreading as investigations continue into the impact of the new Omicron variant.
As people start planning gettogethers with friends – often in enclosed spaces – they are being advised to take simple steps to keep transmission of the coronavirus to a minimum and to ensure a safer Christmas for everyone.
Studies show that Covid-19 particles exhaled by someone infected with the virus can hang around in the air like smoke.
As one in three people with the virus has no symptoms, this means they could be spreading it without knowing.
Simple tips include wearing a face covering to help reduce the volume of Covid-19 particles in the air, and opening windows when people are getting together.
Even 10 minutes of fresh air being let in at intervals can help.
Updated rules following the discovery of Omicron now require people to wear face coverings on public transport or in indoor places including shops, enclosed shopping centres, banks, building societies and parts of transport hubs.
People are also being advised to wear masks in other public settings, such as cinemas, pubs, libraries, community premises and places of worship.
People can also take a lateral flow before attending a Christmas party or visiting a crowded venue to make sure that they are healthy. The advice also stresses the importance of getting a PCR test if you get any Covid-19 symptoms and staying at home if you test positive.
Dr Paddy Hannigan, Clinical Lead for the vaccination programme in Staffordshire and Stoke-on-trent, said: “Unfortunately the activities we enjoy that make this time of year so special are also the activities that can allow Covid-19 to spread.
“This means that last year’s ‘hands, face, space, fresh air’ guidance is just as important this winter: wash your hands regularly, use a face covering when social distancing is not possible and try to keep your distance from those not in your household, meeting groups outside wherever possible.
“Please take heed of these simple precautions, take a lateral flow test whether you have symptoms or not, and remember that the most effective way to protect yourself and your loved ones is to get your Covid-19 vaccine or booster as soon as possible.”
Appointments for vaccines can be booked online through the National Booking System by visiting nhs.uk, or by calling 119.
Up-to-date details and times for all other Staffordshire Covid-19 vaccination walk-in clinics can be found at twbstaffsandstoke.org.uk/ coronavirus/how-to-get-a-vaccinewhere-and-travelling
You don’t need to be registered with a GP or have an NHS number to get your jab, but it will be quicker if you do, so take that information with you if you can.