Important message from Sheffield’s health chief on lifting final Covid restrictions UK News

The latest legal rules are due to end on July 19, subject to a final decision next Monday, which means nightclubs can reopen, theaters, sports stadiums and other venues can again operate at full capacity and masks will no longer be needed in stores and on public transport.

Greg Fell, director of public health for Sheffield, said he supported the fourth and final step in the government’s roadmap to get out of lockdown, but that didn’t mean people would have to let their guard down completely.

Mr Fell has previously said he plans to continue wearing a mask once the legal requirement to do so is removed and he has now called on the people of Sheffield to continue to take reasonable precautions to keep the virus at bay .

In a statement released today, Tuesday July 6, he explained that lifting the restrictions would not mean the end of Covid.

“Learning to live with Covid doesn’t just mean allowing infections to spread unchecked. The impact is clear – many are suffering from the symptoms of Long Covid, exacerbated inequalities, students missing out on school, staff shortages in the NHS and social services as well as in businesses, ”he said.

“Across the country, more people have been vaccinated, which means more people are protected against serious illnesses if they catch the virus. This is vital to overcome Covid and see Sheffield return to normal as much as possible.

“The Long Covid is always a concern, many people are suffering and we are still learning about the effects of the Long Covid and its impact on people’s lives. You can still be in pain if you are doubly vaccinated and there are still a lot of people who have not yet been vaccinated.

“This is why I would like to stress the importance of keeping hygiene levels at a high level. Let’s all continue to wash our hands regularly, get tested if you have symptoms, and self-isolate. This will stop the spread even more and is an added bonus for the vaccine.

“Vaccines are part of the answer but do not eradicate the Covid, we will learn to live as safely as possible. However, we know that the steps we have taken have worked so far; the masks have had a huge impact and there is overwhelming evidence to back it up. We would have much less freedom if it had not been for the impact of wearing masks in confined spaces on transmission rates.

“I have no doubts that Sheffield will recover well and that we will see fewer hospital admissions. Covid rates may increase at first, but more importantly a decrease in hospital admissions and, therefore, fewer deaths, is a big step in the right direction.

“A cautious exit is necessary, not only for us as individuals, but also to reassure businesses that they will not be in a situation where they have to close again is vital for them.

“We will be keeping a close eye on future directions to ensure that we are as prepared as possible, protecting the residents of Sheffield and moving forward towards a brighter future.”