Don’t let your guard down against Delta strain of Covid-19

People across Bridgend County Borough are being urged not to let their guard down against coronavirus.

It follows recent confirmation from Public Health Wales that the Delta variant is now the most common viral strain identified in new cases of Covid-19.

Council Leader Huw David said: “The emergence of the new variant is a sobering reminder of why we must all remain alert and do all that we can to protect ourselves, our families, neighbours, friends and work colleagues from potential exposure.

“All viruses mutate and develop into new strains. While there is no evidence to suggest that the Delta variant is more dangerous, it is certainly proving to be the most contagious.

“At the same time, the ongoing vaccination programme is also proving to be highly effective against its spread. It remains our best defence against the coronavirus, and it is essential that as many people as possible continue to take part.

“A recent study carried out by Public Health England found that the UK’s two main vaccines, Pfizer and AstraZeneca, were 33 per cent effective against the Delta variant after one jab, and more than 80 per cent effective after a second dose.

“However, we must also remember that no vaccine is 100 per cent effective, and it is still possible to carry the virus without showing any symptoms of it. Even if we have received a jab, we must not make the mistake of thinking that we are somehow immune, and we must not let our guard down.

“Following the phased move into Alert Level One, we have all been taking advantage of the recent good weather, but it is still important to remember that current restrictions enable up to 30 people to meet outdoors, and up to six people from six different households to meet indoors.

“Dropping our guard now would squander so many months of effort and sacrifice, and I hope that people across the county borough will continue to do all that they can to prevent the spread of Covid-19 throughout our communities.”

What you can do to keep yourself and others safe from the Delta variant

• Do not become complacent – the pandemic is not over.
• Protect yourself and others by following all rules and guidelines.
• If you do choose to mix, do it outdoors rather than indoors wherever possible.
• Stay two metres away from people not in your extended household.
• Wash your hands regularly.
• Wear a face covering where required.
• Self-isolate and get a test if you or anyone in your household develop even mild symptoms (a high temperature, a continuous cough or a change in your sense of taste or smell).
• Most importantly, get both doses of the vaccine when it is your turn.
• Where possible, avoid travelling into areas with high rates of coronavirus.
• Participate with all track and trace procedures.
• When visiting a shop, wear a face covering, use hand sanitiser, observe social distancing and follow any other safety precautions that may be in place.
• Plan to holiday at home, and only travel overseas if it is absolutely essential to do so.

For more information, visit the Covid-19 advice page at the council website.