As the weather warms up in time for a brilliant long weekend, residents and visitors are being asked to do the simple things to help protect themselves and others this bank holiday.
While many people will be enjoying a trip to the beach, visiting an attraction or eating out, Simon Bryant, the council’s director of public health, says it is vital we all remain Covid-aware to help keep infection rates down.
Bryant: Simple and easy actions can help you stay safe
He said,
“It’s simple to enjoy the weekend and, hopefully, some good weather, and stay safe.
“Simple and easy actions like washing our hands regularly, wearing a face covering, particularly in crowded areas such as public transport, and staying two metres apart are still the most effective things we can all do to help stop the spread of Covid-19 wherever we are.
“When the weather is so beautiful, try to meet people outside and somewhere off the beaten track. The council has published a list of different locations around the Island for us all to enjoy this summer.
“Testing is vital. Please continue to take regular rapid response Lateral Flow Test (LFT) tests when you don’t have symptoms. If you develop symptoms, isolate immediately and get a PCR test.
“The Newclose test centre is open from 8.30am until 2pm, seven days a week and over the bank holiday weekend.
“The vaccine is available to everyone aged 16 and over now — please take advantage of the protection this offers you and others.”
Love: Continue to enjoy the Island safely
Cllr Karl Love, Cabinet member for public health, added,
“I would ask everyone to continue to enjoy the Island safely over the bank holiday weekend and beyond.
“That includes asking our visitors to take a lateral flow test before, during and after their stay so that people can be safe and help us to manage COVID infection rates.
“There will be times when you are likely to be in close proximity with others outside your household, such as travelling to and from the Island, when particular care is needed. We all have a duty of care to respect and look after one another.”
For local COVID information, don’t forget to visit keeptheislandsafe.org
News shared by Isle of Wight council press office, in their own words. Ed
