People who were previously shielding in Liverpool are being contacted by the city’s Director of Public Health urging them to take care, following a steep rise in COVID-19 cases.
Matt Ashton is writing to thousands of vulnerable residents with health conditions who were shielding prior to August, after 400 confirmed cases in the last seven days.
He writes: “Whilst this recent raise in cases has mostly been in people under age 40 – anyone can get COVID-19 at any age. People with health conditions and those who were asked to shield are still particularly vulnerable and need to take special care during this worrying period and to be extra cautious when making decisions to socialise, avoiding crowds and going places that are not COVID-19 secure.”
The letter reiterates key advice:
• Ensure stringent social distancing – stay at least 2 metres away from anyone you do not live with or who is not in your support bubble
• Limit your social contacts – being mindful of the widespread virus transmission
• Wash your hands with soap and water often, and as soon as you get home – use hand sanitiser gel if soap and water is not available
• Wear a face covering over your mouth and nose where social distancing is not possible outdoors and indoors. By law, you must now wear them in most indoor settings including public transport, shops, post-offices, banks, beauty salons, visitor attractions and entertainment venues, libraries, community centres, places of worship and public areas in hotels
• Avoid crowded environments where the risk of transmission is higher
• Avoid businesses that are not COVID-19 secure (including pubs, cafes and restaurants) If they are not looking after you, don’t go there!
There is also advice on getting a test if they get symptoms, and the council’s Isolation Advice Line to help people who have been asked to self-isolate and have no means of support from friends, family, or neighbours.
