Face coverings still needed

While the Government has lifted restrictions on Monday, 19 July, it has asked that everyone continues to act carefully and remain cautious in their approach to everyday life.

That is especially true for healthcare services; where some patients are very vulnerable.

NHS Kent and Medway Clinical Commissioning Group’s Chief Nurse Paula Wilkins said:  “The virus has not gone away and we must do all we can to protect patients and staff from it and keep it under control.’’

All healthcare settings in Kent and Medway will keep the current infection prevention and control (IP&C) measures that are already in place.

That means:

• masks will still need to be worn by patients, visitors, staff and anyone else entering a healthcare setting – this incudes hospitals, clinics, GP practices – unless you are medically exempt
• social distancing will remain – both in waiting rooms and in wards beyond 19 July
• a flow of fresh air will be encouraged in all healthcare buildings
• some restrictions managing visitor numbers may still apply – this may vary depending on space available and other service specific issues, hospitals will provide clear information on any visiting restrictions.

Paula said: “Please remember that having both doses of the Covid-19 vaccine offers the best protection against the virus; it is, however, still possible to contract Coronavirus, so anything we can do to protect each other and ourselves remains vitally important.’’

• Continue to regularly wash your hands or use hand sanitiser, avoid touching your face if you can and remember not to get too close to people – hands, face, space.
• Continue to regularly self-test; free kits are available from www.nhs.uk.
• Make sure you self-isolate if you show symptoms, test positive or are contacted by Test and Trace. Guidance on self-isolation