OH NO! DEVIL DISEASE IS BACK ON THE WARPATH RIGHT ACROSS NORTH EAST LINCOLNSHIRE

CORONAVIRUS  is spreading rapidly once again in our area as the two-year anniversary of the first UK lockdown approaches.

The Covid case rate in North East Lincolnshire currently stands at 331.3 per 100,000 people, with some 640 local residents having tested positive in the last seven days.

Public Health officials have warned that doctors and nurses in the areas hospitals are starting to see more cases in new admissions.

Professor Derek Ward, Director of Public Health for Greater Lincolnshire, said: "There is a lot going on for people to worry about at the moment so Covid has understandably taken a back seat.

"Although catching Covid is still a concern, spending time outside, meeting other people and taking a break from the news are important for our mental and physical wellbeing.

"It is really easy for people to do small things that significantly reduce the risk of catching the virus.

"The disease still has quite a bite. It can hospitalise people and cause severe illness. We still need to take it seriously and put precautions in place."

Here are some of the things that can help reduce the risk:

* Get vaccinated: A recent vaccination (whether it’s your first or second dose, booster or the new fourth  dose coming soon for people over 75) will help protect you from catching the virus and reduce the severity of the disease if you do pick it up.

* Keep testing while it is still free: It’s worth taking an LFT test 2 or 3 times a week and a PCR test if you have any symptoms. This will reduce the risk of passing on Covid. If you get a positive LFT test, ideally you should isolate and follow the guidance on the Government’s website. Although it’s no longer a legal requirement, it’s the best way to stop the risk of passing the disease to other people.

* Don’t forget the power of handwashing: Washing your hands thoroughly and often with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds helps eliminate harmful bugs and greatly reduces the risk of spreading infections such as colds, tummy upsets and Covid.

* Keep it fresh: Let fresh air in if you are meeting inside and think about meeting outdoors where you can.

* Think about still wearing a face covering: If you are going into a crowded, indoor space or making a journey on public transport such as a bus or train, consider still wearing a covering over your nose and mouth. It is not a legal requirement in England but it will help reduce your chance of catching or spreading the disease.