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Public health officials in North Lincolnshire are concerned that half term could bring a big rise in cases in North Lincolnshire putting older people at risk. The seven date rate of infection per 100,000 people has stabilised across North Lincolnshire, sitting at around 150. However, the number of cases in people over the age of 60 has started to increase. Jilla Burgess-Allen, a public health consultant, said: “School leaders have gone to remarkable lengths to adapt to Covid-19 and keep their pupils and staff safe. But even with all the correct measures in place in schools, it is what happens outside the school gates that is causing concern. “It’s no good keeping to bubbles, social distancing and good hand hygiene in schools and then ignoring all the guidance when the school day is over. “With half term coming next week, there is a real risk that younger people with time on their hands ignore the rules causing a spike in the numbers in North Lincolnshire.” All other data across the country suggests an increase in the virus in younger people eventually flows through to an increase in the older population. As more older people get the virus we will see an increase in hospital admissions putting the NHS under real pressure. Ms Burgess-Allen said: “I know getting younger people to follow the rules is difficult, but I am asking every parent to talk to their children stressing the importance of the hand, face, space message. They may feel invincible, or understand that the health risks to themselves are relatively low, but the impact they can have by spreading the virus to older people can be devastating. “Self-isolation for people who have symptoms, are waiting for a test, have tested positive or been contacted by NHS track and trace is also vital to stop the spread of the virus. This applies to everyone including our young people. Staying at home for a few days might be inconvenient, but it is much better than passing the virus to friends, relatives and the wider community. “I want our young people to enjoy the half-term, but to do so safely to protect the most vulnerable in North Lincolnshire.”

Public health’s half-term concerns – the importance of self-isolating

Public health officials in North Lincolnshire are concerned that half term could bring a big rise in cases in North…

#Covid-19 #Half-term #YoungPeople

22 October 2020