With schools returning on Monday and some other adjustments to rules on social contact, the message for Hull is that lockdown has not been lifted.
Tim Fielding, Deputy Director of Public Health at Hull City Council said the local Coronavirus rate had not reduced for a number of weeks. Staying static while other areas have fallen rapidly, it or this means Hull now has one of the five highest rates in the country.
The city has 160 Coronavirus cases per 100,000 of the population. The rate in England is 88 per 100,000 and the average rate for Yorkshire and Humber is 122.
Mr Fielding, said: “Our rate is still relatively high and is not coming down as needed; it is currently among the highest in the country and it is urgent we all take that very seriously. The things we do – and don’t do – all make a difference.
“The government has been very clear that local restrictions could continue in early summer in areas where rates are still high. None of us would want to be in a situation where we are kept in lockdown while other areas move on.
“While the rollout of the vaccine is extremely important, it is not a reason to become complacent. You can still potentially catch the virus from someone who has been vaccinated, even though they are protected from getting ill. Masks, staying two metres from others and washing or sanitising hands frequently remains crucial.
“There is still time for us to change the rate and make a difference. Continue to stay at home, do not mix with other households indoors or in gardens, only leave the house when it is necessary.
“We are all bored and tired by the restrictions but the virus is not affected by fatigue. We know the Kent variant is now the dominant variant locally and nationally and that it tends to be more infectious.
“There is widespread testing in our communities for everyone who has symptoms of Coronavirus. It is critical you get a test if you have just one symptom – a temperature, cough that doesn’t stop or food tastes or smells different or of nothing.
“I urge businesses and individuals in critical roles to sign up for free regular testing of people with no symptoms. This can be crucial in preventing people unknowingly spread the virus”.
Book a test now if you think you could have Coronavirus: https://www.gov.uk/get-coronavirus-test
Register for free asymptomatic testing for businesses and people in critical roles: http://www.hull.gov.uk/coronavirus/coronavirus-business-advice-and-support/lateral-flow-testing-businesses.
