Coronavirus Update: Tuesday 5 January
Residents, businesses and schools in Staffordshire must now rally once again as the country is placed in Lockdown 3 to help prevent the NHS becoming overwhelmed by the new strain of Covid-19 this winter.
In an address to the nation on Monday 4 January 2021, the Prime Minister Boris Johnson confirmed the third lockdown, including the closure of schools to most pupils until the half term on February 15.
The key changes are:
- To go out for essential reasons only: Such as going to work if you can’t work from home, shopping for necessities, limited exercise and providing care
- Primary schools and secondary schools will move to remote learning for most pupils
- Summer exams will be suspended
- People who had previously shielded will be asked to do so again
Alan White: Leader of Staffordshire County Council
“Many people have already sacrificed so much and this will be devastating news for our residents, businesses and schools. However, despite the Tier 4 restrictions, cases are continuing to rise and the Government has decided that a third lockdown is needed to help stop the NHS becoming overwhelmed by this virus once again.
“While nobody wants to see further restrictions imposed, it is clear that Covid-19 preys on complacency. So our message is clear. Please act now and think of the impact spreading the virus may have not just on you, but on your family, your friends, your colleagues and your community.
“As a county council, our focus will remain on providing the best support for residents and businesses most in need. We now need the support of people who live and work in Staffordshire like never before to see us to a time when the promise of the vaccines can be fully delivered and their benefits truly felt.”
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Director for Health and Care: Dr Richard Harling
“Like everywhere, rates are spreading at an alarming rate in Staffordshire. While nobody wants further restrictions, the best chance of making sure we return to the freedoms we once knew is by sticking to the rules.
“One third of people who have the virus don’t show any symptoms. So, if you can’t stay at home because of work etc, then please do get a test if asked to do so, even if you have no symptoms as identifying more people who have the virus so they can self-isolate will help us reduce the spread of infection.
“We also all need to remember the basics of: Washing our hands regularly, wearing a face covering and keeping our distance. All are simple steps, which together can make the biggest difference.”
Advice for people shielding
If you are clinically vulnerable, you could be at higher risk of severe illness from coronavirus. There is additional advice for people who are clinically extremely vulnerable to coronavirus.
Those who are clinically extremely vulnerable should not attend work, school, college or university, and limit the time you spend outside the home. You should only go out for medical appointments, exercise or if it is essential.
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