Warwickshire County Council is reminding residents to think carefully about how they will celebrate this year to avoid getting COVID-19 as an unwanted gift.
Following Public Health advice and taking extra precautions now will help to safeguard residents who choose to get together on Christmas Day so people may have a merry Christmas and look forward to a better 2021.
On Christmas Day only, government guidelines to reduce the spread of COVID-19 will be relaxed allowing up to three households to create a Christmas bubble. This means that people can get together in private homes and gardens and places of worship. Anyone wishing to meet with others outside these Christmas bubbles must strictly adhere to the local Tier restrictions.
The best way to avoid the virus is to avoid contact but if people plan on mixing there are things to do now to minimise risks of catching or transmitting the virus as or having to self-isolate later this month. There are simple things people can do to protect themselves and their loved ones, such as:
- Staying at home as much as possible for two weeks before Christmas
- Wearing a face covering in all public spaces both inside and in busy outdoor spaces
- Keeping at least 2 metres away from people not from your household
- Continuing to regularly wash hands with soap and water or use hand sanitiser
People should also remain vigilant to COVID-19 symptoms and anyone with a new continuous cough, a high temperature or changed sense of taste or smell must self-isolate and book a test by calling 119 or online at nhs.uk/coronavirus. Close contacts of people who testing positive will also need to self-isolate for 14 days after the last contact.
Councillor Les Caborn, portfolio holder for Adult Social Care and Health at Warwickshire County Council said: “Ultimately our wish is for everyone to have a safe, healthy and happy Christmas and to find ways to celebrate that are right for them and respectful of each other’s wishes.
“Whilst people will be looking forward to seeing each other at home and in person, the safest way to get together is remotely or outdoors. This will protect the most vulnerable in our communities and keep recorded case numbers as low as possible as we move into the new year, giving us hope for a better 2021.
“However, we do appreciate the importance of social contact and know people dearly want to spend some quality time with those they love. This is particularly important for many people following months of isolation and loneliness. If people will be taking the opportunity to get together during the window of relaxed guidance we urge them to do so safely and take steps now to reduce risk of spreading the virus.
“For those still unsure what to do, my advice is to accept this not going to be the Christmas any of us had planned so it could be a time to set new traditions. Postponing the parties and taking time to connect in new ways may be what we all need. It could be a time for us to do things to boost wellbeing like helping others, enjoying some time outdoors or walking in the Warwickshire countryside, speaking to loved ones online or over the phone, writing letters and making resolutions perhaps.
“We must also acknowledge that this period is often unhappy for many and we can all play a part by looking out for neighbours and others who may be struggling right now. For some kindness inspiration and ideas to spread joy and stay connected throughout this festive period, visit our advent calendar www.warwickshire.gov.uk/adventcalendar.”