Keep up the good work, urges city’s top health chief
THE North East “cannot become complacent” now that strict lockdown rules have been relaxed, a top health official has warned.
Restrictions in England were eased yesterday, with non-essential shops, hairdressers, and pubs allowed to re-open for the first time in months.
Covid infection rates in our region are as low as they have been since last September and people have been urged to help keep it that way by not forgetting basic safety measures as they enjoy the gradual return towards more normal life.
Prof Eugene Milne, Newcastle’s director of public health, has asked the region to “pull together” and strictly follow Covid rules to avoid a new spike in virus cases.
A spike in cases in the city last week following a “controlled” outbreak at a hotel has now been reduced significantly and Newcastle’s infection rate, 31 new weekly cases per 100,000 people, is now more in line with the rest of the region. According to figures issued by Newcastle City Council, the average rate across Newcastle, Gateshead, Northumberland, North Tyneside, South Tyneside, Sunderland, and County Durham is now 26 per 100,000 – the same as the average for all of England.
Prof Milne said: “The number of daily cases, hospital admissions and people becoming seriously ill from Covid-19 have all been trending down, thanks to the combined efforts of everyone in our city.
“As restrictions ease and more elements of normality return we need to maintain those efforts to protect ourselves and each other, by following social distancing guidelines, washing our hands frequently and wearing masks when required.
“The re-opening of shops, gyms and beauty salons means that more people will be interacting indoors, in environments where the virus thrives and can be transmitted quickly.
“We cannot become complacent and must always stick to basic rules of hands – face – space – fresh air and make sure anyone who is symptomatic isolates and gets a test as soon as possible.
“I know many people will be relishing the opportunity to meet up again with friends for an outdoor lunch, or looking forward to a haircut or trip to the shops.
“So far, the roadmap has gone to plan, and possibly even better than we might have feared.
“If we all pull together and follow the guidance in full, at all times, we can take this next step safely as well.”
Yesterday marked the start of step two of the government’s lockdown exit roadmap in England.
Non-essential retail, outdoor hospitality venues, personal care premises such as hairdressers and nail salons, and indoor leisure facilities including gyms are among the businesses that have been allowed to reopen.
Step three of the government’s roadmap is due to start on May 17, when it is hoped there will be another significant easing of restrictions. From that date, pubs, restaurants and other venues should be able to open indoors and people will be allowed to mix in homes too.
May 17 is also the earliest date international travel could be allowed again for holidays.