By Leah Conway –
Following the Prime Minister’s announcement, West Yorkshire Prepared (WYP) urged West Yorkshire residents to continue to do all they can to prevent the spread of infection.
Take caution
In a statement, they said: “While yesterday’s announcement may be disappointing to many, it is sensible to take caution as the final restrictions are lifted. Infection rates continue to rise across our region and are very high compared to other parts of the country. The Delta variant, which is more transmissible than the previous variant, is now the dominant strain in our region.
“Evidence suggests the vaccine is effective against the new variant, so we would strongly encourage everyone who is eligible to get both doses of the vaccine when invited, as this will provide more than 90% protection against hospital treatment for illness caused by the Delta variant.”
Measures to follow
West Yorkshire Prepared also reminded residents of measures you can follow to reduce the risk of infection:
- Continue to social distance from those outside your household/support bubble and avoid face to face contact where possible.
- Minimise the number of people you come into close contact with and when you do meet with others, try to meet outdoors.
- Reduce the time spent in crowded areas where it may be difficult to socially distance.
- If you have symptoms, get a PCR test and stay at home.
- Continue to wear a face covering where necessary and wash your hands frequently.
- Continue to work from home, if you’re able to.
On a final note, the WYP also stated: “Our priority continues to be the safety of our region – in schools, workplaces, communities and on public transport.
“The majority of people in West Yorkshire have put a huge amount of effort into reducing infection rates and keeping each other safe throughout this pandemic, and we must ensure this continues if we have any hope of returning to some kind of normality.”
In past weeks they have also urged residents to get the vaccine when able to do so.