26 February 2021

Covid update - 26 February

UK Chief Medical Officers have agreed that the Covid alert level should move from level 5 to level 4 in all four nations.

There is also positive news that early real-world UK data shows vaccines provide high levels of protection from the first dose.

This week, the government confirmed that the earliest date for opening all shops in England is 12 April and lifting all restrictions on 21 June. In Scotland, the government confirmed it hoped to open all shops by 26 April. Northern Ireland will review its plans on 18 March and Wales on 12 March.

At this stage, IPC and PPE measures will likely continue for healthcare settings beyond any lifting of national restrictions. FODO will continue to monitor this situation and keep members up to date.