West Sussex urged to 'stay cautious' as coronavirus lockdown rules eased
Rates have dropped across the county over the last week
People across West Sussex are being urged to remain cautious to avoid spreading coronavirus, as lockdown rules are eased across England.
Monday (March 29th) sees the latest change in rules as part of the Government's roadmap out of the lockdown first introduced in January.
From today, people can meet outside in groups of up to six or as two households, including in settings such as private gardens.
Some outdoor sport is also being allowed, meaning tennis and golf clubs can re-open.
People across West Sussex are being praised for their 'widespread compliance' with rules in place during the nation's third lockdown, which has helped to bring infection rates down substantially.
227 new cases of the virus were reported in the seven days to March 23rd, making the county's average rate 26.3 per every 100,000 people.
That's a drop of 26.5% on the 309 recorded in the week before and well below the 6,105 (708.9 per 100,000) recorded in the week lockdown was brought in back in January.
However, people are being advised they should continue to act like they have it despite the easing of restrictions, to help bring numbers down even further.
Dr Tony Hill, the Interim Director of Public Health at West Sussex County Council, has advised people to take this next step safely.
He said:
“Fresh air, being outside, meeting others and getting exercise while maintaining distance are important for our physical and mental wellbeing.
"Like everyone, I’m looking forward to seeing people and getting out more now that restrictions have eased.
“The reduction of infection rates and the encouraging number of people receiving their vaccination is good news.
“COVID-19 hasn’t gone away though and increased social contact means more opportunities for the virus to spread. Some restrictions remain in place and we should try to avoid busy areas wherever possible when meeting friends and family.
"Remember COVID-19 can still be a very severe disease which you do not want to catch or pass on to others.
“We must still play our part in the coming weeks so that the roadmap out of lockdown can stay on track.”