With the rise in Covid cases across Bath and North East Somerset, local leaders have warned about the danger of a local lockdown if people ignore the rules on “hands-face-space” and social gatherings.

Dr Bruce Laurence, B&NES’ Director of Public Health, said: “We are treading a fine line and there is a real danger that we could see B&NES follow other areas which are now in the higher alert levels. It is only through each and every one of us taking action to prevent further spread of this disease that we can hope to stay outside the local lockdown measures.

“We should all be prudent and cautious, but if we follow guidance, we need not be fearful. That means it is safe to go out for essential activities like shopping.

If you have symptoms, self-isolate and book a test on 119 or online at: nhs.uk/coronavirus. There have been 153 positive cases confirmed in the last seven days in B&NES, which is above the regional average.

Dr Laurence added: “We are at the medium level of alert and there is no strict rule about households mixing beyond the rule of six, but if we want to remain out of lockdown, we should all limit non-essential mixing between households as much as possible, and certainly avoid crowded places where people are not being careful about their behaviour.

“Finally, as we approach Halloween and Bonfire night please avoid Trick or Treating or anything else that puts you, or others at risk.” 

Councillor Dine Romero, Council Leader, added: “I want to reassure residents that where there are cases our public health team is working with Public Health England and those affected, to ensure the measures are put in place to control the virus. But we are in real danger of lockdown if people don’t follow the rules.

 “Our Hub on: 0800 247 0050 can help with food and medication and provide support if you are vulnerable, isolated, lonely or anxious”

The Hub, a collaboration between the Virgin Care, 3SG, NHS and the Council has so far received over 8,000 calls for help with over 2,000 tasks, such as helping with food and medicines, carried out by volunteers.

You can find the latest coronavirus figures for the area: https://coronavirus-staging.data.gov.uk/