COVID-19 in Lewisham - 19 February update
We started the week with the positive news that the NHS has delivered almost 325,000 COVID-19 vaccinations across South East London. The COVID-19 vaccination has been offered to everyone aged 70 or over, frontline health or social care workers and the clinically extremely vulnerable (high risk). This has been a strong example of local partnership work between the NHS, local communities, volunteers and the local government to deliver this important vaccination programme to Lewisham residents.
The work continues locally to vaccinate further priority groups and to ensure that the programme is being delivered as equitably as possible to all Lewisham residents who are eligible for the COVID-19 vaccination.
People aged 65 to 69 as well as those who are clinically vulnerable (moderate risk) are now being contacted by the NHS with invitations for the vaccination. Take a look at the guidance on the high and moderate risk categories on the NHS website.
I continue to encourage you to take up the offer of the COVID-19 vaccination when it is your turn and remind you to take a look at our blog post for some experiences of local residents that have already received their COVID-19 vaccination.
As mentioned in my previous blogs, we’ll also be continuing to run webinars and Q&A sessions on COVID-19 vaccination so keep an eye out for those that are coming up. Find out more about the COVID-19 vaccination webinar.
It’s easy to get a rapid test
Since the start of 2021, around 8,500 people have taken a rapid COVID-19 test across Lewisham and we’ve identified over 100 people with coronavirus, without symptoms, who otherwise might have gone on to spread the virus. We’ve worked hard to introduce a wide variety of options to make the process as easy as possible for everyone.
On Monday, Deptford Lounge opened meaning there is now easy access to rapid tests in the north, south and central areas of the borough. There is a growing demand for rapid tests, as people recognise how important it is to get tested, even if you feel well. Deptford Lounge opened with twenty rapid tests booked for the first hour alone.
As we look forward to pupils being welcomed back to classrooms, we can feel confident that a thorough testing system is well established to help identify those who have coronavirus without symptoms and help stop the spread in schools. We’ve also helped other settings such as alternative provision, early years’ settings including nurseries and supported housing facilities.
If you are working outside of your home, out in the community or coming into contact with customers, you are thought to be more at risk of spreading the virus. It’s recommended you take a rapid COVID-19 test twice a week to help identify anyone who may have coronavirus without realising.
Find out more and book rapid COVID-19 test - or come for a walk-in appointment after 11am at Civic Suite, Catford or The Green Man, Downham.
Have you been told to shield?
The Government has announced the list of people considered clinically extremely vulnerable to COVID-19 has been extended. More people have been identified because of multiple risk factors that may make them more vulnerable to the virus.
For some people, it will surprising or disappointing to receive the letter advising them to shield until 31 March. Shielding means staying at home as much as possible and taking extra care.
- Stay at home as much as possible. Do not leave the home for work and do not travel unless you need to, for example to go to the doctors or hospital appointments.
- Try to contact as few people as possible and stay away from busy areas. You can still meet people from your support bubble and one person you do not live with outside for exercise.
- Keep up the everyday actions – wash your hands regularly, wear a face covering (unless you are exempt) and keep a safe 2 metre distance from others.
If you have a job, you should work from home. If your normal job means you can’t work from home, talk to your employer about changing your work so you can.
If you have been identified as high risk, you will be able to access a priority slot for supermarket deliveries and get help with pharmacy deliveries. Find out more about the support available if you have been identified as high risk.
Even though you’re shielding you shouldn’t be lonely. People in your support bubble can still help you at home. Health and care services are still there to help you in person if you want it. Find out more about NHS help at home.
It is important to look after your mind, as well as your body. Find information and advice on mental wellbeing on the Every Mind Matters website. If you, or someone you care for, is struggling with their mental health, it is very important you get help straight away. Find out where to get help for someone struggling with their mental health on the NHS website.
Thank you for all that you are continuing to do to keep Lewisham safe.