Covid Control Plan: Controlling Transmission

Achieving COVID-19 control relies upon containing and reducing the rate of new infections while protecting those who are most vulnerable to the effects of the disease. It is estimated that around one in three people who suffer coronavirus display no symptoms. This presents a problem in containing the disease as some people may have the virus and spread it unwittingly. However, by maintaining measures such as social and physical distancing, good hygiene and face coverings, we can reduce the likelihood of spread even from those cases without symptoms at the same time as chasing down and isolating as many symptomatic and asymptomatic cases as possible.

To open up the city, relieve the constraints of lockdown and prevent a resurgence of the virus, we need to strike a balance between freedom and responsibility. It is reassuring that the roadmap out of lockdown announcement by government on 22 February 2021 will be driven by data, not dates so that we do not risk a surge in infections that would put unsustainable pressure on the NHS.

This updated plan is being published and shared as we enter step two of the roadmap, demonstrating that the recent lockdown has led to us being able to meet the tests. We cannot be complacent though.

The Chief Medical Offer and Chief Scientific Advisor have jointly given warnings about the risks posed by easing restrictions and are predicting a further surge of COVID-19 cases later in the year. Whilst giving evidence to Members of Parliament on 9 March 2021, they gave stark warnings and strongly advised against any attempt to concertina the intervals between stages. Accelerating the roadmap would mean a lot more people would die.