Let's protect Christmas - Advice from Alice Wiseman, Director of Public Health

Christmas is just around the corner and many of us are looking forward to celebrating with friends and family even more than usual, after Covid-19 cast a cloud over last year's festivities.

So with case rates increasing across the country and the Omicron variant now known to be even more transmissible than previous strains of the virus, it's worth taking a few sensible precautions to protect yourself, your loved ones and your Christmas celebrations.  

• Consider the risks and be selective. If you have a few gatherings planned with different groups, could any of them be postponed to reduce your risk of feeling unwell and having to self-isolate on Christmas Day?
• Get vaccinated. All adults are now eligible for booster vaccines and if you haven't had your first or second dose yet, it's not too late. It's tempting to put it off to avoid side effects over the festive season, but for the vast majority of people the side effects are very mild, they don't last long and they're worth it to prevent much more serious illness.
• Avoid crowded and enclosed places whenever you can. Could you do your last-minute Christmas shopping when the shops are likely to be quieter? Could you catch up with your friends somewhere other than a busy bar?
• Do a lateral flow test before and after events and get togethers. If it's positive or if you're feeling unwell, stay at home and arrange a PCR test straight away. Please don't put off getting a PCR test to avoid having to self-isolate - even if your symptoms are mild, you could put others at risk of serious illness, including the friends and family you'll be seeing over Christmas.
• Let fresh air in. It's safer to meet up outdoors, but opening a window for 10 minutes every now and again makes a big difference if you're having visitors at home.
• Wear a face covering, which is now required on public transport and in shops, cinemas and many other places. They're not mandatory in hospitality venues like pubs and restaurants - but they are recommended in all indoor settings where you'll come into contact with people you don't normally meet.
• Don't forget the basics. Washing your hands regularly and keeping your distance from others helps stop the spread of colds and flu as well as Covid-19.

Thank you for everything you've done to help keep each other safe. It's been another difficult year and there are more challenges to come, but I'm extremely proud of the resilience and community spirit that Gateshead residents continue to show. I hope you have a safe and happy Christmas and New Year.

Alice Wiseman, Director of Public Health - Gateshead