Continue following coronavirus rules say Hampshire health bosses
People are urged to stick to the guidelines as lockdown restrictions ease
Hampshire residents have been urged to continue to follow coronavirus rules as pubs outdoors, hairdressers, barbers, gyms and non-essential shops reopened yesterday (12 April).
The move is part of the government’s road map out of lockdown.
But the county's health bosses are calling on people to continue to follow the rules - even after vaccination.
Dr Debbie Chase, the director of public health in Southampton, said: "I’m really pleased that restrictions are easing. We are all hoping for some degree of normality again. Now we must all continue to maintain hands-face-space requirements as we are out and about - even after vaccination.
"Please adhere to the advice and guidance within shops, leisure centres and other establishments and we can enjoy our freedoms and stay safe together."
She also thanked residents for sticking to the rules over the past months and added: "There will be some people who will be excited about easing of restrictions, and others who will be worried. People will need to take this at their own pace, for some this will mean gradually doing more. Whatever you are feeling, and wanting to do it’s important that we are all mindful of each other and continue to keep ourselves, families and communities safe. So follow the guidance and maintain hands-face-space requirements."
Dr Simon Bryant, the Hampshire director of public health, also urged people to get into the habit of testing at home twice a week as tests are now available for all residents.
He said: "The reopening of non-essential retail from today is another welcome milestone and will bring a much-needed boost for the local economy. We are all keen to get back to normal and support local businesses, but I understand there may be some people who feel anxious about being out and about after living under restrictions.
"To keep ourselves and our communities safe, we must all keep following the guidance and remember that every little action counts towards minimising the risk of infection: wash or sanitise your hands frequently, wear a face covering and maintain a safe 2m distance from anyone not in your household or bubble.
"Those who are clinically extremely vulnerable or who were formerly shielding should take extra care to keep themselves safe, by strictly observing the ‘hands, face, space’ guidance and shopping at quieter times, if possible."