January 05, 2021 - 810 views
Shielding was initially introduced between March and August 2020 when the virus was new and the Chief Medical Officer for Wales advised those most at risk to serious harm from coronavirus to stay at home to protect themselves.
This guidance has been updated to support the clinically extremely vulnerable in protecting themselves from exposure to coronavirus as Wales is now at alert level 4.
The advice to those who are clinically extremely vulnerable has changed. You are advised that you should no longer attend work or school outside the home. Welsh Government will be sending letters out to confirm this advice.
You can remain part of a support bubble, as long as you take care. You are encouraged to still go outside to exercise and attend medical appointments.
Everyone in Wales is currently subject to regulations in place at alert level 4 and therefore must stay at home as much as possible.
Sticking to the basics remains the best way to protect yourself:
- Keeping contacts to a minimum. Use technology to stay in contact with family, friends, neighbours or volunteers.
- Staying 2 metres or 3 steps away from people you do not live with.
- Washing your hands regularly with soap and water for 20 seconds each time, or use hand sanitiser if hand washing facilities are not available.
- Avoid touching your face and wear a face covering where required.
- Keep your home well ventilated
- Cleaning surfaces regularly and avoid touching surfaces others have touched.
You are also advised to avoid using public transport and avoid sharing a car with anyone you don’t live with or have formed a support bubble with.
More more information on Shielding and the Welsh Government advice which is is valid immdiately, please visit https://gov.wales/guidance-on-shielding-and-protecting-people-defined-on-medical-grounds-as-extremely-vulnerable-from-coronavirus-covid-19-html
