As England reflects on the pain of penalty defeat to Italy and people await Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s expected announcement confirming the lifting of the remaining Covid restrictions the council is urging residents to keep getting tested regularly and to make a big push to get double-jabbed if eligible.
The Prime Minister is expected to confirm the move from legal requirements governing the likes of wearing face coverings and 1m plus social distancing to an emphasis on guidance and expectations.
Staffordshire has witnessed rising case rates of Covid-19 recently with many areas above the West Midlands and National averages. Places such as Tamworth are among the highest in the country and the council is issuing a plea to be cautious ahead of 19th July, when the changes are due to take place.
Cabinet Support Member for Public Health and Integrated Care, Dr Johnny McMahon, said:
“We are now close to where many of us have worked so hard to get to.
“This has been achieved by getting tested regularly, following the rules in place, and getting our vaccinations without delay.
“Although it looks likely there will no longer be legal rules in place, it is still down to us all to continue with a cautious and common-sense approach. This includes getting tested regularly and doing all we can to get the remainder of Staffordshire residents to have their first or second jabs.
“We have seen in areas like Tamworth how quickly things can change, and transmissions can surge, causing significant disruption – this is what we want desperately to avoid.
“As we countdown the final days ahead of restrictions being lifted, let’s have a final push and get as many people vaccinated and tested as possible.”
Everybody over 18 can book their vaccine by contacting 119 or visiting the National Booking System. All second doses are only available after 8+ weeks of your first vaccination.
More information on how to get a test can be found at: www.staffordshire.gov.uk/testing.
