Mancunians are once again being asked to do the right thing as efforts continue to bring the number of Covid-19 cases in the city down.
In recent weeks the number of positive cases in the city has sharply risen alongside similar upturns across Greater Manchester, and other cities in the UK.
Communities and local businesses are being urged to do everything in their power to prevent an escalation of restrictions already in place in Manchester, and to stop the city being placed in a full lockdown.
The rate of infection in Manchester is currently 71.6 per 100,000 people. Although this is lower than other parts of the country this number is still too high, and this number has to come down.
Residents are being reminded to stick to the following guidelines to reduce the risk of contracting Covid-19, or passing it on to another person.
They should:
- Regularly wash their hands with warm soapy water.
- Wear a mask or face covering when in shops, public places or on public transport.
- Keep two metres apart from other people where possible.
- Avoid physical contact with people from outside their household.
- If they develop symptoms of Covid-19 - which include a high temperature, a new continuous cough, or a change to the sense of taste or smell - isolate from other people and book a test.
- Help fight the spread by supplying information to Test and Trace.
Sir Richard Leese, Leader of Manchester City Council, said: “The solidarity shown by Mancunians throughout this pandemic has been inspirational. Many of us have found ourselves in situations we never could have imagined, yet we have been able to carry on with the help and support of our friends, family, and communities.
“However we have to do more to stop us sliding further into the red zone. This is why I am asking all of our residents and businesses to double down on their efforts when it comes to measures like social distancing, hand washing and not mixing with other households.
“Over the past few months guidance has been confusing and I appreciate the frustration that many people must have felt. But there can be no confusion about what the end result will be if the number of Covid-19 cases do not start to go down - a full lockdown in Manchester.
“I am determined that we will avoid this, but this can only be achieved through the actions of every resident, business and community. This is Our Manchester and as a city we will always pull together in times of crisis.”
Councillor Bev Craig, Executive Member for Adult Health and Wellbeing for Manchester City Council, said: “Taking extra measures to prevent the spread of Covid isn’t just about protecting one person. It is about protecting your friends and loved ones, it is about protecting the community you live in, and it is about protecting the city that you call home. This year has been incredibly difficult in so many ways which is why we are asking again for people to show solidarity, and do what is right.
“Following the lift of the national lockdown it was plain to see the immense benefits that being allowed to socialise and support our local communities had. If we want this to continue we have to work together to prevent this virus from taking hold again.
“Keeping your distance, washing your hands regularly and wearing a mask are small things that all of us can do that make a big difference on whether we go back into lockdown or avoid it.”
For the most up to date information about Covid-19 visit www.manchester.gov.uk/coronavirus