Update on the Omicron variant and the latest tips for Leeds

The latest guidelines from Leeds health authorities have been released to help people protect themselves and loved ones from COVID-19 as the holiday season approaches.

With uncertainty lingering over the potential impact of the new Omicron variant, Leeds City Council is urging people to follow the latest guidelines and get a hit or recall to ensure they have the best chance of passing a safe and enjoyable Christmas.

As cases of the new variant appear more frequently in the UK, experts say Leeds are expected to have cases in the coming weeks.

Many variants have emerged during the pandemic, and with the recently identified Omicron variant, UKHSA is collecting scientific information as quickly as possible to inform the right balance of interventions to prevent transmission and protect lives.

If a person is suspected or confirmed to have the Omicron variant as a result of a test, their close contacts will be contacted by NHS Test and Trace, required to self-isolate and asked to take a PCR test, which they have or have not been vaccinated.

The council continues to work closely with local and national health partners to monitor our local position and will manage cases according to national and local guidelines.

As of December 6, the overall COVID-19 infection rate in Leeds is stable at 322.4 cases per 100,000 and remains below regional and national infection rates as the situation in local hospitals improves.

Although deaths associated with COVID-19 remain low in Leeds, any death linked to COVID-19 is a tragedy for those affected and everyone is called upon to play their part in reducing the spread of the virus.

Councilor Salma Arif, Executive Member of Leeds City Council for Public Health and Active Lifestyles, said, “While we may continue to enjoy our festive activities and Christmas plans, we need to be aware of our individual and collective responsibilities to protect our friends, families and communities.

“What remains absolutely crucial is that as many people as possible be fully vaccinated as this represents our best defense against existing strains and any new variant. It is not too late for people who have not. who received their first dose still have access to it locally.

“It is also essential that people have access to the booster vaccine when prompted, which not only boosts immunity, but provides a higher level of protection than doses one and two.”

Anyone aged 18 and over, three months after the second dose, is eligible for their vaccination booster.

The current advice is to wait until you are contacted by the NHS for your reminder appointment – but it is worth checking the website for updates to the national reservation system. The Leeds NHS webpage also has an information page on the Vaccines against covid-19, program booster as well as local walk-in clinics.

Victoria Eaton, Director of Public Health for Leeds City Council, added: “We urge everyone to continue to follow the latest advice. This means washing your hands regularly, wearing a face covering if necessary, and isolating and having a PCR test if you have symptoms.

“We also encourage opening windows to let in fresh air and doing a lateral flow test before socializing indoors, especially if you see someone who is at greater risk. We can all play our part in keeping the city safe during the holiday season and beyond. “

ENDS