Public safety must come first, says West Sussex Director of Public Health

The Director of Public Health in West Sussex says people’s safety must come first and urged residents to make the next four weeks count so that restrictions can be lifted.

Alison Challenger said vaccination and testing remain key to controlling the spread of Covid-19, and that simple actions such as regular hand washing, wearing face coverings, maintaining social distancing and letting fresh air into indoor settings can bring us to the end of the government’s roadmap out of lockdown.

The number of positive Covid-19 cases in West Sussex has increased in recent weeks, reflecting the national trend caused by the spread of the Delta variant.

Although the West Sussex rate remains lower than the South East and England rates, Alison said numbers will only come down if everyone plays their part during the next four weeks.

“We want to make sure that we continue to keep people safe and that the measures in place ensure we can come out of the roadmap without needing to return.

“Vaccines are now becoming available to younger adults, and I’d urge those who are eligible to take up that offer. Making sure you have your second vaccine if you’ve already had your first will also increase your protection, keep our communities safe and help bring us out of restrictions.

“By taking regular free tests at home, we can be confident we aren’t spreading Covid-19 to others without realising it.

“We must also remember the message that has been so important throughout the pandemic – hands, face, space and fresh air. Continuing to carry out these simple actions during the next four weeks will make a real difference,” added the Director of Public Health.

Our website has details on how you can get free Covid-19 testing kits, which can be ordered to be delivered direct to your home or picked up from collection points across West Sussex.

You can also find information on our website about vaccinations and the latest Covid-19 guidelines on our website.

Visit our Covid-19 data dashboard to see the latest figures across West Sussex, including those in your local area by using our postcode checker.

You can also find information about vaccinations and the latest Covid-19 guidelines on our website.

Download the free NHS Covid-19 Test and Trace app to use when you are out visiting pubs, restaurants, cafes and many other businesses. This is the fastest way of knowing when you're at risk from coronavirus (Covid-19). The quicker you know, the quicker you can alert your loved ones, and your community.
 

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