Cornwall's 'Enhanced Response Area' coronavirus status to end next week
Cornwall Council's Public Health Team says there has been a substantial drop in cases since its introduction
From the end of next week, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly will no longer be designated an 'Enhanced Response Area' for coronavirus.
Cornwall Council's Public Health Team has confirmed the ERA status will end on October 1st.
It was introduced following a huge spike in cases over the summer, leaving the Duchy with one of the highest case rates in the country.
A raft of support measures were brought in to help tackle Covid, including 'Vaxi Taxis', patrols and extra pop-up clinics.
Officials say since then, there has been a substantial drop in figures and a rise in uptake of vaccinations.
However, they are keen to stress that Covid-19 has not gone away and are asking everyone to remain vigilant, stay cautious and be respectful to keep cases low.
What is the advice once Cornwall's special Covid status ends?
The council's message to residents and visitors is: "The best way to fight the virus is to get vaccinated while also remembering the ‘hands, face, space and fresh air’ guidance".
The advice to anyone with classic Covid or unexplained symptoms is to self-isolate and book a PCR test.
Those who are asymptomatic are asked to continue testing twice a week at home with free lateral flow tests.
Cornwall Council says it is vital that everyone plays their part to keep Covid levels as low as possible as we head towards winter "when health services typically come under considerably more pressure".
Rachel Wigglesworth, Director of Public Health for Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, thanked everyone who has done their bit to help but said: “The fight against the virus is most definitely not over and I would urge everyone, whether you are a resident or visitor, to get your jabs and remain cautious.
"We know that following the trusted ‘hands, face, space and fresh air’ guidance is crucial to keeping the virus out of our communities, and I would also remind people to test regularly with Lateral Flow Tests if you have no symptoms, and to self-isolate and book a PCR test if you do have symptoms.
“Only by staying vigilant can we stay on top of Covid, keep each other safe and protect our health services".
Cllr Andy Virr, Portfolio Holder for Adults and Public Health, added: “It’s good news that we’ve managed to bring case numbers down in Cornwall but the virus is still out there and we need everyone to do their bit to help protect each other.
“The recent rise in cases continues to take its toll on the NHS so it’s vital that people take precautions, follow the guidance and get their vaccinations as soon as possible.
"This is doubly important as we head towards the winter when health services typically come under much more pressure".