Derbyshire reacts to the government's winter Covid plan
There has been some concern for how people will adapt to the backup measurements the Government have outlined
Boris Johnson hosted a press conference with Chris Whitty and Sir Patrick Vallance last night outlining England's autumn and winter Covid-19 plan.
The changes are only set to be made if the NHS becomes overwhelmed or under too much pressure.
In yesterday's press conference, it was noted that the different strains will be having an impact on the response to the pandemic. Chris Whitty said: "We have not faced a winter with the Delta variant."
The impact of the Delta variant
The Delta variant is now thought to be the predominant strain of coronavirus, and has made it harder or people to avoid catching the disease as is considered to be highly contagious. The good news about the variant is that the most effective form of protection against it is still to get vaccinated, according to scientists.
If someone tests positive for Covid-19, they will still be required to self-isolate even if they are fully vaccinated.
Backup plan revealed
A plan B is also being prepared to manage the pressure on the NHS. In this case, measures would include mandatory face-coverings and it would be vital for people to work from home, as well as the introduction of vaccine passports.
At this stage, people in still working remotely in Derbyshire may also not be returning to the office any time soon, as the importance of working from home to mitigate risk has also been stressed in the Prime Minister's update. It has been hailed as one of the 'most effective ways of reducing transmission.'
Chief Executive at the East Midlands Chamber Scott Knowles from Derbyshire said:
"Businesses will welcome communication from the Government about its plan for what we understand could be a bumpy few months ahead about the determination not to bring back any kind of full lockdowns and that will offer some much needed confidence." He added:
"Many organisations are gradually reopening their workplaces, and seeking to establish a hybrid of physical and virtual working and changing messaging once again would cause a significant blow to their efforts in encouraging employees to to see the benefits of working alongside their colleagues in offices."
The effects of home-working
There is a concern about what delaying normality would mean for Derbyshire. Knowles stated:
"The consequences would be felt far and wide with home-working having a detrimental impact on our town and city centre based businesses that serve office-based employees and public transport usage still struggling to meet pre-pandemic levels.
The measures also include offering booster jabs to people aged above 50 as well as vulnerable people next week.