LOCKDOWN LIFTING: HOW YOU CAN PREPARE FOR RESTRICTIONS EASING
Added by Love Business East Midlands | 8 April 2021
UPDATED: 8 April 2021
THE second stage of lockdown-easing measures is due to take place next week – but people should still take precautions to protect themselves from coronavirus, an expert pharmacist at MedsOnline247 has warned.
From 12 April, pubs and restaurants’ outdoor dining spaces, non-essential retail, and outdoor attractions will be able to reopen. Self-catering UK holidays will also be allowed to return and the number of guests allowed to attend funerals and weddings will increase.
Advanced clinical practitioner and independent pharmacist prescriber Shaeeb Ali, from private healthcare service and online pharmacy MedsOnline247, said: “Restrictions easing will be welcomed by many and there will no doubt be a shift in the daily habits and opportunities compared to what we have been accustomed to over the previous months.
“However, it’s important to remember that coronavirus is still with us and people need to be cautious to prevent further spread of the virus. Despite the declining Covid-19 case numbers and success of the vaccine rollout so far, people should remain vigilant to best protect themselves and others.”
Al fresco wiping
“The reintroduction of outdoor hospitality on 12 April brings opportunities to socialise with friends and family who have been apart for many months. While businesses have a duty of care to clean areas used by customers, I recommend people to bring their own provisions to wipe down surfaces in public spaces to create additional protection for yourself and others.”
Not sharing is caring
“Whether eating a picnic in the park or playing a round on the golf course, I advise people from separate households avoid sharing items wherever possible. If this cannot be avoided, I recommend using antibacterial wipes to disinfect items at risk of contamination.”
Keep your distance in public spaces
“The changes to restrictions on 12 April bring a welcomed return to non-essential retail and outdoor hospitality and attractions. To reduce opportunities for the virus to spread, people should remain seated when using outdoor hospitality spaces and maintain social distancing in public spaces, particularly as it's effective in reducing the risk of transferring viral droplets.”
Mask up and clean your hands
“Face masks have become an essential checklist item when leaving the house. People should continue to use them when shopping for food, using public transport and prior to eating in outdoor hospitality settings.
“When it comes to preventing the spread of Covid-19, any type of mask is better than none. Respirator masks – such as FFP1, FFP2 and FFP3 – are made of a fabric designed to filter the air or impurities. While not as effective, disposable surgical masks are also an option, as well as fabric or homemade masks.
“It is also important and advisable to carry hand sanitiser gel and regularly wash your hands. Avoid touching surfaces such as handrails and door handles wherever possible. Regular sanitising will ensure that any harmful bacteria or germs are killed effectively.”
Boosting your immune system
“Your immune system is your body’s natural defence against infection and its function is essential in keeping you healthy. Now, more than ever, it’s important to keep your immune system as strong as possible, particularly for people with underlying health conditions.
“To ensure you get enough nutrients, you should try to eat a diet rich in fruit, vegetables and wholegrains and consider taking daily multivitamins to help keep levels boosted. Essential vitamins and minerals, including A, C, D and E, as well as antioxidants and zinc, can strengthen your immune system.
“Despite vitamin D intake – produced by exposure to sunlight – being in greater abundance through the arrival of spring bringing longer daylight hours, I recommend people continue to supplement to reach adequate levels that may have depleted over winter.
“While vitamins won’t prevent you from being infected by coronavirus, they will support the performance and health of your immune system – working harder to protect you against harm.
“If you do feel ill or start developing, book a test to check if you have coronavirus. You and anyone you live with should stay at home until you get your test result. If you become increasingly worried about your symptoms and you're not sure what to do, use the NHS 111 online coronavirus service for further advice and guidance.”
For more information on MedsOnline247, please visit www.medsonline247.co.uk or call 0333 577 3533 to speak to one of the private healthcare company’s experts.
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