Latest from Colin Cox, Director of Public Health and Peter Rooney, Chief Operating Officer for North Cumbria CCG
Colin Cox, Cumbria’s Director of Public Health, said: “The rate at which COVID is spreading in Cumbria and indeed the rest of the UK is truly alarming right now.
“Thankfully, it does appear this variant is milder than previous ones, but the focus now must be on protecting our NHS and care services.
“That’s why we must all remain incredibly cautious over the coming weeks and bring the case rates down. Continue to get tested regularly and self-isolate if you’re positive. Keep your distance from others wherever possible. Wash your hands regularly and wear face masks in busy public spaces.
“Also, please make sure you get your first, second or booster vaccines as soon as you possibly can. If you haven’t had your first or second vaccine yet, it’s not too late. You won’t be judged or asked why by anyone – but please book it now.”
Peter Rooney, Chief Operating Officer for North Cumbria CCG, said: “As everyone will be aware there are extremely high levels of covid circulating in our communities, parts of Cumbria have the highest levels in the country. This is having a significant impact on staffing across all our health and care services.
“It is important that people know the NHS is here for you if you need help – especially those with an urgent need, such as a suspected stroke, chest pains or concerns about cancer. But we would urge people to consider using 111 online for less urgent health concerns and be understanding of the pressures on staff who are doing their very best in challenging circumstances.
“We would also urge friends and relatives of people who may be particularly vulnerable to ensure they are being well supported.”
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From 11 January in England, people who receive positive lateral flow device (LFD) test results for coronavirus (COVID-19) will be required to self-isolate immediately and won’t be required to take a confirmatory PCR test.
This is a temporary measure while COVID-19 rates remain high across the UK. Whilst levels of COVID-19 are high, the vast majority of people with positive LFD results can be confident that they have COVID-19.
There are some exceptions to these temporary changes - particularly if you wish to apply for a Test and Trace Support Payment, where a PCR test is still required.
Find out more on the government website.
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Get your covid vaccines and boosters now
Over 32 million people, more than 60% of adults in the UK, have now had their COVID-19 booster jabs. In the past year, over 133 million coronavirus vaccine doses were given to people in the UK.
Every adult in the country is now being urged to book their jab as soon as possible. The vaccination programme is open to everyone, with first and second doses also available.
Use the online NHS booking service. There are walk-in centres available too. You can find a COVID-19 walk-in vaccination site near you online.
Do remember that if you have tested positive for COVID-19 you must wait 28 days before you get boosted.
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Self-isolation rules and getting tested
The self-isolation advice for people with COVID-19 has changed. It is now possible to end self-isolation after 7 days, following 2 negative lateral flow tests taken 24 hours apart on day six and seven.
- If your LFD test result is positive you must complete your 10 day self-isolation period.
- Those who leave self-isolation on or after day 7 are strongly advised to limit close contact with other people in crowded or poorly ventilated spaces, work from home and minimise contact with anyone who is at higher risk of severe illness if infected with COVID- 19.
- There is no change to the guidance for unvaccinated contacts of positive COVID-19 cases, who are still required to self-isolate for 10 full days after their date of exposure to the virus.
If you have COVID-19 symptoms you should stay at home and self-isolate immediately.
If you have been vaccinated with a COVID-19 vaccine, you are less likely to become severely ill if you catch COVID-19. You are also less likely to spread COVID-19 to other people, but it is still possible for this to happen.
Find out more about how to get a test on the government website.
Continue with the Covid-safe behaviours
To help combat COVID-19 you should follow safer behaviours and actions that include:
- Use face coverings in most indoor places;
- Wash your hands regularly;
- Test regularly;
- Stay at home when you feel unwell;
- and Use the COVID-19 NHS App.
Simple and straightforward behaviours such as letting in fresh air for 10 minutes regularly whilst indoors, can help save lives. People should work from home if they can. Anyone who cannot work from home should continue to go into work.
If you need to continue to go into work, consider taking lateral flow tests regularly to manage your own risk and the risk to others.
Help for those in need
If you are struggling there is help available. Don't be afraid to ask.
Cumbria County Council can provide urgent help and emergency support, including basic food and essential items, or if you are struggling to cope with your current situation for whatever reason.
Call the county council's Support Helpline on 0800 783 1966 (Monday to Thursday 9am to 5pm, Friday 9am to 4.30pm).
You can also email COVID19support@cumbria.gov.uk and you will receive a response within one working day.
Test and Trace support payment
If you have been asked to self-isolate, you may be eligible for a £500 support payment.
Returning to University?
Students returning to university should test before they travel back to campus.
For those returning to university:
- Get a COVID-19 test twice a week and report your results.
- Remember that around 1 in 3 people with COVID-19 have no symptoms.
- Tests are quick and free, with results in around 30 mins.
- Whatever your result, report it right away and help keep life
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Beware of Covid-pass fraud
The NHS COVID Pass is used to demonstrate your COVID-19 status when travelling abroad and domestically at venues and settings in England.
Criminals are using the NHS COVID Pass as a way to target the public by convincing them to hand over money, financial details and personal information.
Beware of NHS COVID Pass fraud. Remember:
- The NHS COVID Pass is free.
- The NHS will never ask for payment or any financial details.
- The NHS will never issue fines or penalties about your NHS COVID Pass
To get your free NHS COVID Pass visit the NHS website.
Support your local community and be kind
Look out for your friends and neighbours, especially if they are old or vulnerable.
Looking out for the people in your community makes a huge difference. Check in with your neighbours and vulnerable people in your community, check they have what they need.
And remember, the pandemic is putting people under immense pressure, not everything is working as it would normally, but people are trying their best, so be patient and be kind as we all try and get through this.
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