We have recently seen a steady increase in Covid-19 positive patients in our hospitals and continue to see a significant rise in Covid-19 transmission in our local community caused by the Delta variant.
Doctor Munavvar gives ITN an update and implores everyone to become fully vaccinated, as 19th July approaches.
Over 85 per cent of the population have now received their first dose of the vaccine. Over 67 million doses have been delivered in total and over 28.6 million people have received a second dose.
The latest vaccination figures are updated daily at NHS England.
Getting both doses of the vaccine takes just a few seconds and is the best way to protect yourself, your loved ones and all those around you from the virus.
There are many drop in centres where no appointment is necessary. You can find out more about them here.
All NHS COVID vaccines are highly effective against the Delta strain and other forms of the virus circulating in the UK. A recent study showed they have reduced hospital attendance by 94 per cent.
Watch a previous appeal by Doctor Munavvar where he asks everyone to get vaccinated. Click Dr Munavvar video
hospital Covid-19 precautions will remain in place after 19th July 2021.
Adult inpatient visiting remains suspended until further notice.
We will of course be able to continue offering patients/relatives with the option of Facetime (or alternative) to speak directly with their loved ones. This can be organised directly with the ward.
Exceptions still apply and you can find out more here.
Everyone attending hospital will be asked to adhere to the Infection Control guidance displayed.
This includes observing strict 2 metre social distancing principles, the use of face masks and adhering to strict hand hygiene on entering and leaving the hospital and all clinical areas.
All visitors, unless exempt, must also wear a face covering and any PPE that the clinical area recommends.
They must demonstrate, where required, a negative lateral flow test on arrival to the ward/unit, to ensure any risks associated with not having symptoms are managed.
Lateral flow tests are free from pharmacies.
If you are unable to wear a mask due to medical reasons, please consider if your visit is absolutely necessary. If it is, please inform one of our colleagues.
Vaccines have so far prevented an estimated 7.2 million infections and 27,000 deaths in England alone.
Both the Pfizer-BioNTech and Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccines are around 75 to 80% effective at preventing death with COVID-19 after a single dose.
Data on two doses is only currently available for the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine and indicates effectiveness against dying with COVID-19 of around 95 to 99%.
NHS staff continue working hard to deliver the largest vaccination drive in our history, at the same time as providing care for everyone who needs it.
Over 8 million vaccinations have been given through community pharmacies and 40 million in general practice, with local councils, community organisations and others playing an important role as strategic partners, for example by sourcing convenient sites and raising awareness among residents.
Watch the reports tonight at 6.30pm and 10pm on ITV
