▪ DITCHING YOUR MASK TODAY? NOT SO FAST...
CASES RISING – PANDEMIC IS NOT OVER, NHS BOSSES WARN
NHS bosses say masks and face coverings must still be worn in healthcare settings such as hospitals, vaccination centres and GP surgeries.
Despite the lifting of restrictions, coronavirus cases are still rising and healthcare officials said “we must keep the vulnerable safe”.
Face coverings are to be worn in GP surgeries, hospitals and vaccination sites “until further notice”.
Caroline Trevithick, chief nurse for the clinical commissioning groups (CCGs) covering the city and counties, said: “Although most Covid restrictions will end in the community from today, we need to take extra precautions in healthcare settings.
“Your GP practice is working hard for you and wants to keep you safe and confident when attending the surgery, and this is also about protecting others.
“When you visit your GP practice, you can help keep our staff and our most vulnerable patients safe by continuing to follow the simple precautions we are all now familiar with. You must wear a mask or face covering, sanitise your hands and maintain social distancing.”
The latest coronavirus figures in Leciestershire reported of 77 new cases in the 24 hours to Friday, according to the Department of Health and Social Care.
Across the UK, more than 50,000 new cases were reported on Friday, the highest daily figures since January 11.
Avinash Hiremath, medical director of Leicestershire Partnership NHS Trust, said: “It is important for everyone to know that the guidance for healthcare settings is not the same as it is for our outside, social or home lives. We care for vulnerable and unwell people in close contact.
“It is our responsibility as health and care professionals to keep everyone safe and reduce transmissions, and that includes visitors abiding by our rules.
“The pandemic is not over. Cases across the UK are rising, as are hospitalisations.
“We must all act carefully to manage the risks to ourselves and others.”
Andrew Furlong, medical director at University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust, said: “We care for some of the sickest and most vulnerable patients in the city and county so it’s vital we do all we can to protect them.
“There will be no change in our hospitals after July 19 – if you are entering our hospitals you will need to wear a face covering and maintain social distancing.”
Ms Trevithick said all adults should bet themselves vaccinated as “the best defence we have against the Covid-19 virus. Please don’t delay having your vaccine.”