Councillor Maria Crompton’s plea follows reports of 146 new cases in Sandwell – the highest overnight total to date – up from a previous highest figure of 83.
Sandwell Council’s Deputy Leader has today (Thursday 15 Oct) urged residents to stick to safety guidelines in the wake of the borough’s highest ever overnight figure for coronavirus cases.
Councillor Maria Crompton’s plea follows reports of 146 new cases in Sandwell – the highest overnight total to date – up from a previous highest figure of 83.
Earlier this week, the government imposed new Tier 2 (High alert level) restrictions on Sandwell and several other areas in the region where there is a high rate of coronavirus.
That means some important changes – from now on – you can’t mix with people from outside your own household or support bubble in any indoor setting. This includes private homes and any other indoor venues such as pubs and restaurants.
The national ‘rule of six’ still applies outdoors, although up to six people can now meet in a garden. All this applies both inside and outside of Sandwell.
Councillor Maria Crompton, said: “As we move into winter, we’re seeing infection rates rise across England, we’re thinking especially about our older people.
“Older adults are much more vulnerable to serious illness and death if infected – and it’s crucial that older people avoid the virus.
“This is something we can all help with, no matter what our age.
“Younger people could bring the virus into their family and pass it on to someone older and more at risk.
“Our safety messages remain true and more important than ever – stay home as much as possible, wear face coverings in enclosed spaces and maintain social distancing.
“It’s not that long until Christmas now and I’m sure all of you, like me, want to be able to be with family and friends.
“But for that to be possible, we must stop the spread of the virus.
“No one wants to see another spike in deaths from Covid-19. We must protect one another.
“We are already seeing a significant rise in Covid-19 patients needing critical care in our region.
“Please don’t take unnecessary risks because you think you’re safe.
“Please keep a safe distance from others, wash your hands regularly and wear a face covering in shops, on public transport and in other enclosed spaces.”
Councillor Crompton also paid tribute to Sandwell Council teams and other partners who were working hard every day in the continuing fight against coronavirus.
She added: “I would like to say a very big thank you and pay tribute to the efforts of the many teams across the council, as well as our many partners and local businesses, who are responding day in and day out to constantly changing and challenging circumstances.
“Without their efforts, the situation could be even worse, and I’m extremely grateful to them.
“We’re asking everyone to play their part by doing all they can to look after themselves and their loved ones.”