Now that social distancing restrictions have been lifted, life is looking a little different here in England. Following the Government’s announcement, social distancing measures have been dropped and face masks are no longer a requirement (apart from on London public transport). So, with all this change, how can we continue staying safe and protecting others? In this blog post, our private GPs offer their advice; including how to get a private Covid test, keep your distance and lower the risks.
What’s changed?
England has moved into the final stage of the roadmap out of lockdown. Almost all legal restrictions on social distancing have been removed, but the prime minister has advised that we “proceed with caution”. For example, the legal requirement for face masks inside has been removed, but the Government has said that they are still recommended indoors (such as shops and restaurants) and in crowded places.
Nightclubs have reopened and capacity limits for venues and events have been lifted. The ‘Rule of 6’ and the 1m+ distancing rule has also been dropped. The work from home guidance has stopped but people are encouraged to participate in a gradual return to the workplace.
Venues are being encouraged to use Covid ‘Passports’ or Covid status certifications, which allow people to prove they have had both doses of the Coronavirus vaccine, or have had a negative test result. People can also obtain a Covid passport if they have natural immunity after recovering from Covid-19.
Self-isolation rules are remaining in place if you are contacted by NHS Test and Trace until 16th August, at which point it will be lifted for those who have had both doses of the Covid vaccine, and for those aged under 18.
Get Vaccinated
First and foremost, we strongly advise everyone (all adults over 18) to get fully vaccinated. Not only should this help protect you from getting seriously ill with Coronavirus, but it will also help to protect others, particularly those at increased risk for severe illness from the virus.
If you have not yet booked your vaccines, you can do so via the NHS website here.
Take a Covid Test if you have Symptoms
If you develop symptoms of Coronavirus, take a lateral flow or PCR test as soon as you can.
You can carry out lateral flow testing at home on a regular basis. Around 1 in 3 people with the virus do not show any symptoms and therefore could spread the virus without knowing. Therefore, regular testing increases the chances of detecting Covid.
Adhere to Travel Requirements
If you are travelling back from a country on the Red List, or are not yet fully vaccinated and travelling back from Amber Countries, you are still required to quarantine and take the required tests. You can see the full list of countries, as well as full testing details, on the Government website here.
Face Coverings
It is advised to continue wearing face coverings in crowded areas such as on public transport, or inside shops. Although not mandatory (except for public transport in London), wearing a face-covering can help protect you and others from the virus.
Socialising
It’s fantastic news that we are now able to see family and friends freely again; it has come as such a relief to many. To continue keeping each other safe, it is advised to meet in well-ventilated areas. It is also advised to keep the number of people you meet to a minimum. At home, you could consider keeping windows and doors open and leaving your extractor fan running (if you have one) while someone from outside of your household visits.
NHS App
The NHS App will inform you when you have been in close contact with someone who has tested positive for the virus. The app is free, and can help to stop the spread. You can download it here.
Worried?
If you are worried about the lifting of restrictions and the safety of you or your family, or if you develop symptoms of the virus, don’t hesitate to get in touch with your private GP. Not a member of Linbury Doctors? You can view the benefits of signing up on our memberships page.
The Future
Although many people have been vaccinated, it is still possible to catch and transmit the virus. It’s important to remember that we are currently in the third wave of the pandemic. Although we are better equipped this time, Covid-19 will continue to be a feature of our lives for the foreseeable.
Using our personal judgement and practising these key behaviours will help to reduce the risk. Following this guidance set out by the government will help to control the spread. You can find more information about this guidance here.
