Within the UK alone, a further 209 deaths have been recorded, following what is being reported the deadliest 24 hours to date.
Following the NHS England Government Press Release earlier today, the lock-down has potential to be extended to continue into June 2020.
Following the press conference today with Dr Jenny Harries, Chief Deputy Medical Officer, she confirmed the first death of a front-line hospital worker with Covid-19. Dr Harries shared her concerns with the Covid-19 death toll currently reporting at 1,228 with Cabinet Minister Robert Jenrick stating it was unacceptable for any front line members of staff to be working without adequate provision of protective equipment.
Experts have today warned the lockdown could potentially continue on into June 2020 as reported cases are already exceeding 19,500.
The NHS continues to see increased pressures although experts have predicted that should the country continue to follow the governments instructions to stay home the NHS should be able to manage the peak of the virus expected over Easter.
Professor Powis today reminded everyone the necessity for social distancing measures with them being essential in an attempt to reduce the transmission rate of the deadly virus. Following the instigation of the lockdown on twenty third of March, infected cases and deaths reported have soared to over 17,089 positive infected cases of the Covid-19. It is expected that the country will struggle not to exceed deaths of 20,000.
With this significant shift, the government are left questioning whether tougher measures and systems need to be introduced and stricter enforcement for those breaking the terms of the lockdown.
NHS Guidance is that everyone should remain at home where possible to reduce the spread of the highly contagious corona virus.
The only four exceptions that will be tolerated are listed below being mindful that even during these exceptions, adherence to the 2-metre social distancing guidelines are to be followed.
- Shopping for basic necessities, ie food and medicines and these visits need to be as infrequent and short as possible.
- One form of exercise per day – this must only include yourself and members of your household that you are currently residing with in isolation.
- To provide care or to support a vulnerable person. Alternatively for medical need. A certificate will need to be provided should you be stopped and questioned by law enforcement.
- Essential travel to and from work, where this cannot be done from home. Only Key Workers will be permitted.
It is VITAL all follow the guidelines in place for the sake of all.
Could anyone tell me, please. After front line NHS staff, will there be a roll out to nurses, carers and other vital staff working in care homes and home care of the testing for Covid-19. We play a vital role trying to prevent our residents having to be admitted to hospital even at the best of times, and this work is more important than ever during this time of national crisis. I salute my colleagues within the hospitals at this difficult time.