'Exercise caution and follow the rules' says Hartlepool health chief

Watch more of our videos on ShotsTV.com
and on Freeview 262 or Freely 565

Hartlepool’s public health chief has issued a rallying call to residents following the announcement of new virus control measures in response to the rise in cases of the Omicron variant.

The Government says that, from December 10, face coverings will be required by law in most indoor settings and that, from Monday, December 13, office workers who can work from home should do so.

In addition, from Wednesday, December 15, certain venues and events will be required by law to check that all visitors aged 18 or over are fully vaccinated, have proof of a negative test in the last 48 hours, or have an exemption.

Craig Blundred, Hartlepool Borough Council’s director of public health, said: “I really do understand how frustrating it is that the Government’s ‘Plan B’ is being implemented, especially this close to Christmas.

Hartlepool's director of public health Craig Blundred

“Covid-19 cases are still high in Hartlepool and I need to ask people to continue to exercise caution and follow the rules.

“The evidence is absolutely clear that wearing face coverings, washing and sanitising your hands regularly and allowing fresh air to circulate indoors will help to reduce infections.

“The most important thing of all is that every one of us gets the vaccine when we are called to do so.”

Mr Blundred added: “As I have said many times before, we do recognise the huge sacrifices people have made to prevent the spread of this virus here in Hartlepool and we need to make sure we all continue to follow the rules and that we are not complacent.”