We are aware that many Christmas gatherings are currently taking place. The Covid and IPC teams would like to raise awareness that over the last two weeks COVID & Flu sickness has risen significantly (nearly double the amount of COVID cases).
Whilst gatherings outside of work are not prohibited it is important to understand the risk that this causes and that many cases have been attributed to Christmas gatherings.
It is important we continue to protect ourselves, our communities, and our workforce by not attending gatherings outside of the workplace if you are unwell. It is advisable to gather in smaller groups to reduce the risk to yourself and the potential impact on your teams.
Gatherings of large groups having contact outside of work whilst they celebrate the festive season alongside large volumes of the public increases the risk of staff sickness and also then the risk of staff-to-staff transmission in the workplace. It is not just COVID-19 which we are at risk off. There has been a well-publicised increase in other respiratory viruses including Flu, which was expected following two years of lockdowns and social distancing.
We would like you all to remain well and safe during the festive season.
The COVID team at EEAST advise the following:
EEAST COVID team are available 7 days a week, including the festive season, from 07:00-22:00 on 07715 494158 or via eeastcovidleads@eastamb.nhs.uk
Happy EEASTMAS from us all at EEAST COVID Team & EEAST Infection Prevention & Control Team.
Published 17th December 2022