More important than ever to get vaccinated

With case numbers remaining high and November just around the corner, Gerry Taylor said it was more important than ever to continue following precautions to limit the spread of the virus. 

Gerry said: "This year, when we have both Covid and flu circulating together, it's really important we continue to do all we can to prevent the spread of infection. 

"I cannot stress enough that the most important step is still to get vaccinated. Get all recommended doses of the Covid vaccine and ensure you get your flu jab at the earliest opportunity.  12-15 year-olds can now book vaccines at local venues and the booster programme is offering vaccines to those most at risk from Covid 19, including anyone over 50 who had their last vaccine more than six months ago. 

"And of course, if you've not had your first or your second vaccine, it's never too late.  All of the information is on our website.  (www.sunderland.gov.uk/covidvaccine) 

"We continue to see high rates of infection across all age groups and particularly amongst younger people, so if you're out and about, or you're celebrating Halloween or Bonfire night over the coming days, remember the simple things we can all continue to do. 

"Wearing a face covering when you're in crowded and enclosed public places, keeping your distance when out and about, meeting outdoors if you can and opening a window if you're meeting indoors - can all make a real difference in helping reduce the spread of the virus.

"These steps are important even if you have been vaccinated because while we know vaccination is really effective at reducing serious illness from Covid, we also know you can still catch the virus and pass it on. 

"That's why you should still test twice a week using Lateral Flow Tests. They are available for free at your local pharmacy or through the Gov.UK website. 

"If your test is positive, if you are contacted by NHS Test and Trace, or if you have any symptoms - even mild ones - you should isolate and book a PCR test immediately. You'll need to stay at home until you receive your PCR test results and then follow the public health guidance on what to do next. 

"And remember, with lots of winter viruses in circulation, you should also stay at home if you feel unwell to help stop passing on any infections.

With case numbers remaining high and November just around the corner, Gerry Taylor said it was more important than ever to continue following precautions to limit the spread of the virus. 

Gerry said: "This year, when we have both Covid and flu circulating together, it's really important we continue to do all we can to prevent the spread of infection. 

"I cannot stress enough that the most important step is still to get vaccinated. Get all recommended doses of the Covid vaccine and ensure you get your flu jab at the earliest opportunity.  12-15 year-olds can now book vaccines at local venues and the booster programme is offering vaccines to those most at risk from Covid 19, including anyone over 50 who had their last vaccine more than six months ago. 

"And of course, if you've not had your first or your second vaccine, it's never too late.  All of the information is on our website.  (www.sunderland.gov.uk/covidvaccine) 

"We continue to see high rates of infection across all age groups and particularly amongst younger people, so if you're out and about, or you're celebrating Halloween or Bonfire night over the coming days, remember the simple things we can all continue to do. 

"Wearing a face covering when you're in crowded and enclosed public places, keeping your distance when out and about, meeting outdoors if you can and opening a window if you're meeting indoors - can all make a real difference in helping reduce the spread of the virus.

"These steps are important even if you have been vaccinated because while we know vaccination is really effective at reducing serious illness from Covid, we also know you can still catch the virus and pass it on. 

"That's why you should still test twice a week using Lateral Flow Tests. They are available for free at your local pharmacy or through the Gov.UK website. 

"If your test is positive, if you are contacted by NHS Test and Trace, or if you have any symptoms - even mild ones - you should isolate and book a PCR test immediately. You'll need to stay at home until you receive your PCR test results and then follow the public health guidance on what to do next. 

"And remember, with lots of winter viruses in circulation, you should also stay at home if you feel unwell to help stop passing on any infections.