Record Covid rate a reminder to take care

It is a record that the city could well do without.

Just days before further easing of Covid regulations are set to begin, Sunderland has seen its infection rate rise to its highest level yet.

A case rate of 966 per 100,000 people – one of the very highest in the highest in the country – serves as a stark reminder that the fight against the virus still has a very long way to go.

Ahead of restrictions being eased on Monday, Prime Minister Boris Johnson has urged people not to “throw caution to the winds” but there is no doubt there is trepidation in some quarters and the Government has been accused by its critics of not providing clearer messaging.

Many major retailers and transport chiefs on networks such as the Tyne and Wear Metro are urging people to still wear masks when shopping or using public transport. But will people heed their pleas? We are soon going to find out.

Health experts are also emphasising the importance of continuing to act responsibly in these times. To think not just about yourself, but of others too.

The continued roll-out of the vaccination programme will remain crucial and restrictions are eased. The message from health bosses is simple: Make sure you get vaccinated, make sure you keep testing.

We are all eager to embrace further freedoms but we must do it in a way that doesn’t cause greater pressures for our wonderful NHS staff. And it is in the gift of us all to behave sensibly.