Virus shielders are urged to take care

People in Sunderland who were advised to shield during the coronavirus crisis because they are clinically extremely vulnerable are being reminded to be cautious now they can leave their homes.

From today, clinicallyextremely vulnerable people are no longer being advised to shield, but they are still being recommended to take extra precautions to protect themselves.

Sunderland

City Council says everyone affected should by now have received a letter from the Government advising them of the practical steps they can take – covers advice on everything from how to stay safe when socialising, travelling and going to work and school, in addition to sticking to the regulations which everyone is being asked to follow. This includes:

*Stillworkingfromhome if you can, but if that is not possible, you can return to the workplace.

*Thinkingaboutchoosing at quieter times of day if you need to go out to the shops or pharmacy,

Gerry Taylor, executive director of public health and integrated commissioning, at Sunderland City Council, said: "We know that shielding hasn't been easy and that some people may feel wary about going out again.

"We are still here to help for people feeling vulnerable or can't access food, medicines or other support. Anyone who needs support can find out more at www.sunderland.gov.uk/coronavirus or calling on 0800 234 6084 between 8.30am and 5pm.

"We would also urge anyone who has been shielding totakeuptheofferofthefirst dose of the covid vaccine.”