As further easing of restrictions comes into force, it is encouraging to see a sense of normality returning to our lives in the West Midlands region, but we need to remain cautious.
The continued easing of restrictions is down to the success of the vaccine rollout and the sacrifices made by everyone who has stayed apart from family and friends, worked from home and followed the guidance to stop the virus from spreading. For the first time this year, people are now able to socialise indoors in groups of six or two separate households, with outdoor gatherings of up to 30 people.
This big step also allows for the reopening of indoor hospitality and leisure venues including restaurants, pubs, theatres and cinemas. Indoor and outdoor sporting and business events, and live performances will also begin.
While this will no doubt be welcomed by many, we must not become complacent. COVID-secure measures will be in operation to allow larger events to take place, with capping according to venue type, and attendees having to follow measures set by venues. While individuals must take personal responsibility when meeting up with loved ones.
We know cases of the variant VOC-21APR-02, which was first detected in India, are now increasing in our communities, as well as other mutations too. In our region, surge testing for variants is currently underway in Nuneaton and Redditch; with other parts of the West Midlands encouraging wider testing among residents. The public health message remains the same for COVID-19 and all variants.
We know the best way to stop the spread of this virus is to follow the guidelines – remember Hands, Face, Space and Fresh Air, socialise outdoors, work from home if you can, get vaccinated and take up the offer of regular testing by ordering free test kits to your home. As we all enjoy more freedom, it is important we recognise and respond to the changing nature of variants, which are likely to be part of how we live with COVID-19 for some time.
Everyone has a part to play in controlling COVID-19, from participating in surge testing, to following the rules, and getting their vaccines. Although this variant is proving very transmissible, there is currently no reason to believe the vaccines are any less effective against it, however we continue to monitor this closely.
Getting a vaccine is the most effective way in which you can reduce your chances of becoming infected with COVID-19 and will significantly lower your risk of dying or serious illness. Remember, both doses are vital though in order to achieve maximum protection.
We know people are at much greater risk from transmission indoors, so be cautious and stay outside where it is safer. Consider who you are meeting, are they vulnerable and have either of you had one or two doses of the vaccine?
It is also more important than ever that people come forward for PCR testing and isolate when they have symptoms, no matter how mild, in order to find cases and greatly reduce transmission.
If everyone plays their part by continuing to follow the health advice in their area, we can help to break the chain of transmission and protect our loved ones.
