Statement: Plan B for winter 2021
Prof. Jim McManus, Interim President, Association of Directors of Public Health said:
As the nights draw in and cases rise faster, we would encourage everyone to continue to play their part in keeping themselves and their family, friends and colleagues as safe as possible.
Five simple things can help see us through the winter and prevent more disruptive measures: ensuring buildings are well ventilated, wearing a face covering on public transport and in crowded, indoor settings, regular hand washing, high uptake of vaccinations for COVID and flu and hybrid working wherever possible.
The winter will be challenging for individuals, communities, businesses and public services and we urge the government to look seriously at, and consult on, the exact measures and most appropriate timing of Plan B. We need to tread carefully as lockdowns and complacency are extremes we need to avoid.