As we mark two years since the first confirmed UK case of COVID-19, we wanted to express our profound thanks and gratitude to the whole Watford community. The pandemic has been difficult and demanding for all but we know that the continuous testing and vaccination programme has saved countless lives.
Despite the end of Plan B restrictions last week, it’s important to continue following public health advice, including testing, wearing masks in crowded places and washing hands regularly.
Getting both doses of the vaccine plus a booster is still the best way to protect yourself from COVID-19 and serious illness.
More people are getting their full set of jabs and, as cases decline, but for some it is starting to feel like we might be beginning to put the worst of the pandemic behind us. But even as we move towards this next phase we must carry on taking care of ourselves and our loved ones.
Coronavirus questions and your wellbeing
Get more information if you are anxious, worried or have questions about the vaccine.
You can also access support to stay physically, mentally, and emotionally well if you struggle with your mental wellbeing.
COVID-19 vaccinations will be offered to eligible, at risk children aged 5-11 years
Children living with someone who is clinically vulnerable such as children with a parent or sibling currently undergoing cancer treatment.
Two doses (a third of the dose given to older children and adults) will be given, usually eight weeks apart.
Children who go to a special educational needs school will be contacted by the school about getting their vaccination.
Parents will be invited by their GP within the next two weeks. Please contact your GP if you haven’t heard by 11 February.
NHS COVID Pass is available for 12-15 year olds
A digital NHS COVID Pass is available for 12-15 year olds in England – making it easier for children and families to travel to countries which require proof of vaccination or prior infection to gain entry, avoid isolation, or access venues or services.
NHS COVID Pass is available for 12-15 year olds
A digital NHS COVID Pass is available for 12-15 year olds in England – making it easier for children and families to travel to countries which require proof of vaccination or prior infection to gain entry, avoid isolation, or access venues or services.
10 ways to protect yourself and your loved ones
- Stay up to date with the latest guidance and look after your mental wellbeing.
- Get vaccinated as soon as possible – Getting both doses of the vaccine plus a booster is still the best way to protect yourself from COVID-19 and serious illness. Find out where at www.watford.gov.uk/clinics. You can speak to your GP or call the NHS for free on 119.
- Attend a walk-in clinic for a 1st or 2nd dose or your booster. A booster helps give you longer term protection against getting seriously ill. Everyone aged 16 and over who had their second dose 3 months ago is eligible for a booster.
- Please take a rapid test to check if you’re COVID-free. You can still catch and spread COVID-19 without symptoms, even after vaccination. Take regular rapid tests to prevent you from passing the virus on to others – particularly before gathering or spending time in crowded or enclosed spaces. All rapid tests are free and take 30 minutes, and you can pick up from many local pharmacies, order kits online for delivery or visit a test site to take a test in person.
- If you test positive for COVID-19 you might be able to stop self-isolating after 5 full days, as long as you test negative on day 5 and day 6. If your test is positive, please stay at home and continue to self-isolate until you receive negative tests on two consecutive days, or until the end of day 10.
- Wear a face covering, unless you’re exempt. You are strongly encouraged to wear a face covering in all indoor and busy outdoor public spaces, unless you’re exempt, to prevent you passing on the virus. Face coverings must continue to be worn for the full duration of journeys on the public transport network, including inside stations.
- Regularly open windows when socialising indoors. Keeping windows and doors open, or opening them regularly – for example for 10 minutes every hour – while socialising indoors increases airflow, and reduces your risk of catching COVID-19.
- Wash hands regularly and use hand sanitiser when you go out.
- Certain venues may still require a COVID-pass on a voluntary basis. If you are heading to an event or venue, check entry requirements beforehand.
- Your child may still be able to get their first and second vaccines at school, but appointments can be booked online and walk-in sessions are also available across Hertfordshire.
For more information and questions and answers about COVID-19 vaccines and the vaccination programme in Hertfordshire and west Essex visit www.covid.healthierfuture.org.uk
