Staffordshire people urged to still stay at home if positive

People in Staffordshire are being urged to continue to stay at home and avoid contact with others if they test positive for Covid-19.

The government lifted coronavirus restrictions in England last week meaning that people who test positive are no longer legally required to isolate, however they are urged to stay at home and limit contact with other people while infectious.

The latest seven day case rate for Staffordshire is 297.7 per 100,000 population.

Cabinet Support Member for Public Health and Integrated Care, Dr Johnny McMahon, called on Staffordshire residents to remain careful and considerate to others now that restrictions have been lifted.

“Anybody who tests positive for Covid-19 is still carrying a virus that can pose a serious health risk to others, especially those who are older and more vulnerable. Staffordshire people have played an important role in protecting each other throughout this pandemic by following the rules and guidance put in place to reduce the spread of infection. Although those rules are no longer in place, staying at home while infectious remains the best course of action and could prevent others from becoming seriously ill.”

People who develop any of the main Covid symptoms are advised to remain at home and book a PCR test as soon as possible. Free rapid tests are still available to order online or collect from local pharmacies until 1 April.

Johnny also reiterated the importance of getting vaccinated and boosted.

“Anybody still in need of a Covid jab can get one very easily in Staffordshire thanks to the work of our NHS partners, pharmacies, GPs and the many volunteers helping at walk-in clinics. It’s important everybody gives themselves the best protection possible from Covid, and getting vaccinated is the best way to do this.”

Full information on updated Covid advice and how to book or order a test can be found at www.gov.uk/coronavirus.

Information on the Covid-19 vaccine and booster, including details about local walk-in clinics, can be found at www.nhs.uk/coronavirusvaccine.