With Christmas just around the corner, many residents are now preparing for festivities with friends and family. It is important, however, to remember that COVID-19 hasn’t gone away, and this festive season it’s still vital to make sure that we’re being as ‘COVID-safe’ as possible.
COVID-19 thrives on human contact. Every contact we have is a new opportunity for us to spread or catch the virus. Early data suggests that the Omicron variant particularly likes social gatherings where it can easily transmit from person to person.
To stay safe in the run up to and during Christmas, we strongly advise everyone to follow these measures to stay safe:
- Get vaccinated - it’s the best way to stay protected, so please make this your priority.
- If you are going out, going Christmas shopping, or visiting people – take a lateral flow test before you go. If it’s positive - do not go out.
- Meeting outdoors is better than indoors. If you are meeting indoors make sure it’s well ventilated.
- Prioritise who you meet with, so you don't miss out on seeing those who are most important to you.
Director of Public Heath, Stephen Gunther, said: “We all want to enjoy Christmas, but it is important to remember that the best present you can give friends and family is their safety.
“We all know the importance of wearing masks, washing our hands, keeping a distance and keeping fresh air circulating in indoor spaces. With the discovery of the Omicron variant, it is crucial we follow this guidance.
“We also know the best line of defence against COVID-19 is the vaccine. We have walk-in centres open right through until Christmas Eve – if you have not had your booster vaccine yet, please do. It’s the best way to protect you and your loved ones this Christmas.”
Portfolio Holder for Health and Wellbeing, Councillor Stephen Craddock, said: “I’ll be taking extra care this Christmas to make sure I’m not spreading COVID to my family.
“Through having my vaccinations and regular testing, I’m able to make sure I can enjoy Christmas safely. You can too. We have over 80 pharmacies in Walsall that have symptom-free test kits available – so please make sure to pick a pack up on your travels.
“There are also lots of venues in Walsall where you can get vaccinated, including the Saddlers, pharmacies and community venues.
“Please don’t delay in coming forward if you still haven’t got full protection. Together, we can keep Walsall protected.”
To find your nearest walk-in vaccination centre, visit Search - Find a walk-in coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccination site (www.nhs.uk).
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