Director of Public Health continues call to be mindful of virus still circulating as restrictions ease

Stockport Council’s Director of Public Health, Jennifer Connolly, has reminded residents to continue to be mindful that the coronavirus remains circulating in the borough as we take first steps out of restrictions.

Her weekly statement this week focuses on the fact that, while some outdoor socialising can take place, as well as seeing a return to face-to-face teaching, it remains crucial to adhere to social distancing, ventilation and hygiene guidance to prevent a resurgence in infection rates.

Jennifer Connolly also reminded residents of the importance of getting a test and self-isolating in the event of a positive result to keep the disease at bay in our communities. Schools will be conducting lateral flow tests of students irrespective of showing symptoms, while anyone who does develop Covid-19 symptoms can book a test online or by calling 119. Businesses whose staff are unable to work from home can also conduct lateral flow tests of colleagues through Stockport Council or the national government.

Jennifer Connolly said:

As of this week, we have started the first steps on the roadmap journey of the easing of restrictions.

While we are now able to meet one other person outside socially for a coffee or a chat (respecting social distancing) and children have returned to school for face-to-face teaching, we must be mindful that the virus is still very much in circulation in Stockport. Further information on the roadmap can be found on the COVID response page.

Rates have declined further this week and are now at 88.6 per 100,000 which means we are seeing around 37 new cases each day, which remains above the national average. It is testimony to the efforts that we have all adopted, that we are seeing our rates decline, and we must keep up these efforts to break the chains of transmission. The latest published data can be found on the Government website.

An increase in testing for secondary school pupils may well lead to an increase in rates as the tests pick up asymptomatic cases. However, I would encourage parents to allow their children to be tested as a strong testing regime will help reduce school disruption by finding cases early and therefore reducing the chances for spread within school settings.

As we begin to mix more there will undoubtedly also be an increase in infections at some point, as the virus will take every opportunity it is given, especially as the Kent variant, which is 50-70% more infectious than previously is now estimated to account for around 98% of cases in Stockport. We are all looking forward to the relaxing of restrictions and by sticking to guidance around stopping the spread, the more likely it is we will be able to ease restrictions. It is us who have the ability to make this happen by complying with measures in place to encourage safe behaviours as the government has said further easing will be based on data not dates.

We need to stick to methods of stopping the spread such as social distancing (2 metres), wearing face coverings in enclosed spaces (unless exempt), regularly cleaning surfaces, washing and sterilising hands regularly and keeping indoor spaces well ventilated – this means having the windows open for at least 15/20 minute every hour. Also, please do continue to stay at home as much as possible and work from home if able. This will all help to keep you and others safe. Further information on reducing the risk of transmission can be found on the stop the spread page.

Key to breaking the chains of transmission is self-isolating. If you have a new continuous cough, high temperature, or a change or loss of smell/taste – however mild, stay at home and book a test via GOV.UK or by phoning 119. You and your household members must self-isolate while you await your results. If found positive, stay home for 10 days. Household members must stay at home for 10 days. Minimise transmission within your home by staggering use of the bathroom, giving each person their own towel, and keeping kitchens and bathrooms clean.
If told to self-isolate through the NHS Covid 19 app you must follow the instruction.

However, we know this can be hard on one’s mental health and wellbeing and it’s difficult not to feel anxious or despondent It’s hard not to feel despondent during these unsettling, unprecedented times. So please remember that if you’re finding things difficult right now, we have lots of offers of help and support, so please do reach out. We’ve listed them all on this page. For further information on how you might look after yourself, please visit our Health and Wellbeing pages or Healthy Stockport.

If you need support, the council’s Coronavirus helpline can be accessed on 0161 217 6046 from Monday – Thursday from 9.00am – 5pm and Friday from 9.00am – 4:30pm. If you’re deaf or have difficulty hearing, you can use our textphone on 07860 022 876. You can also find out more by visiting the helpline page on our website.

I urge everyone to take up the offer of vaccination when contacted. These vaccinations are safe and are very effective at reducing the chance of you becoming seriously unwell with Covid. Our vaccination programme is also continuing at pace with invitations shortly going out to the age 50-59-year-old cohort, so there is no need to ring your doctor as you will be contacted. If you have already received an invitation but didn’t receive your vaccination, but have now changed your mind or are clinically extremely vulnerable, an eligible frontline health or social care worker, have a condition that puts you at higher risk (clinically vulnerable) or are a main carer for someone at high risk from coronavirus , please call your GP to arrange an invitation or book though the national booking system by calling 119 or online on the NHS website. We know that people will have questions about the vaccines that are currently available and this FAQ has been prepared to help to answer these queries on the FAQ page.