COVID-19: Latest updates
As a local resident, we are sending you news and information regarding coronavirus, how this is affecting council services and how you can access support. We have a legal duty to keep you 'warned and informed'.
Please take a moment to update your preferences now if you do not wish to receive this information. Thank you.
Check our website for the latest COVID-19 information and advice.
Information below correct as of 13 January 2022.
 Get boosted now
It is vitally important that everyone who is eligible continues to come forward for their first, second and booster vaccinations. This is the most effective way to protect ourselves and the NHS against COVID-19 and we’ve all got to play our part.
Recent UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) data shows people who are unvaccinated are up to eight times more likely to be hospitalised than those who are fully vaccinated.
Please also remember to:
- 😷 Wear a face covering – now mandatory in most indoor settings such as shops, theatres, cinemas and on public transport
- 🏠 Work from home if you can - if you need to continue to go into work, please test regularly using rapid lateral flow tests, to manage your own risk and the risk to others
- 📱 Get an NHS COVID Pass
- 💪 Grab a jab - it's the best way to prevent the rapid spread of the virus and keep each other safe
Latest local and national COVID-19 data and statistics.
 Don't forget to report all your test results
Symptom free testing
Rapid lateral flow tests (LFD) should be taken by people who do not have COVID-19 symptoms.
From 11 January, if you test positive using an LFD test, you must self-isolate immediately but won't need to book a PCR test to confirm your results.
This is a temporary measure while COVID-19 rates remain high across the UK - the vast majority of people with positive LFD results can be confident that they have COVID-19.
Remember: If you do test at home, it's important that you report your test result online or by calling 119.
It’s now possible to end self-isolation after seven days, following two negative LFD tests taken 24 hours apart, on day six and day seven.
There are some exceptions to this revised approach:
- those eligible for the £500 Test and Trace Support Payment (TTSP) will still be asked to take a confirmatory PCR if they receive a positive LFD result, to enable them to access financial support.
- if you are participating in research or surveillance programmes you may still be asked to take a follow-up PCR test, according to the research or surveillance protocol.
Testing for those with symptoms
Anyone who develops one of the three main COVID-19 symptoms should stay at home, self-isolate and take a PCR test. You must self-isolate if you get a positive test result, even if you have had a recent negative LFD test – these rules have not changed.
 Support for businesses
The Government has announced further funding will be made available for local authorities to support businesses severely impacted by the rise of the Omicron variant.
Find out how the additional funding will apply in Elmbridge.
|
