HEALTH leaders in Warwickshire have encouraged residents to follow Covid safe behaviour advice, as restrictions begin to ease.
The Government has recently announced changes to the national guidance to minimise the spread of the virus.
As of today (Thursday January 27), people are no longer required to wear face coverings in shops or on public transport – but are strongly encouraged to continue to do so.
In the past week, requirements to work from home and for school staff and pupils to wear a face covering have also been reversed.
A WCC spokesperson said: “It is important to remember that the virus is still circulating at high rates in Warwickshire communities.
“Although restrictions are easing, Covid has not gone away and Warwickshire residents are reminded to keep testing regularly and of the importance of regular handwashing, face coverings, and social distancing which will reduce the spread.
“Vaccines are a key method to protect yourself and loved ones from Covid and importantly, to protect from serious illness. Two vaccines are not enough.”
Coun Margaret Bell, WCC’s spokeswoman for Adult Social Care and Health, added: “Whilst guidance has been revised and restrictions are easing, it remains important to continue to practice Covid safe behaviours.
“We hope people will choose to continue to wear face coverings in crowded or public spaces, both indoors and outdoors. We strongly encourage that everyone is fully vaccinated. Two doses of the vaccine and a booster reduces the severity of symptoms, can reduce the risk of transmitting the virus to others and will offer protection for everyone against new variants of the virus.
“Let’s continue to work together to stay safe protect each other.”
Visit www.gov.uk/coronavirus for more information about the latest guidance.
Visit www.nhs.uk for more information about the Covid vaccine, how to book and local walk-in clinics.
Visit www.warwickshire.gov.uk/coronavirusvulnerable or call 0800 408 1447 for additional help or support, or to find out about wider support such as emotional and financial wellbeing.
