There are now around 90 confirmed cases of the Omicron variant of coronavirus in Cumbria with cases doubling every two days.
Cumbria’s director of public health Colin Cox is also urging all Cumbrians to get their COVID-19 booster jab as soon as possible, with new Omicron cases totalling around 90, up from 16 on December 9.
Colin Cox is set to host a Q&A on Facebook Live through Cumbria County Council’s Facebook Page tomorrow from 7pm-8pm to discuss the Omicron variant and the steps being taken to slow the spread and protect the population.
The event is an opportunity for people to hear what the latest announcements mean and ask any questions they may have.
Mr Cox said: “I’m sure many will want to know more about Omicron and the risks it poses. So, if you have any questions please join the event and I’ll answer as many questions as I can.
“Some of the details of this are still emerging so I might not have all the answers, but if there are things I don’t know, we always try to get back to people over email. I really value the opportunity to talk to people directly about what is going on.”
People do not need a Facebook account to watch the event but do need one if they wish to ask a question.
“Omicron is spreading very fast in Cumbria now and is well on the way to becoming the dominant variant of the COVID-19 virus,” said Mr Cox.
“The scientific advice is clear that it poses a serious risk, and you can see that in the steps Government is taking. Being vaccinated is your best protection and I’d urge people to book their booster jab as soon as possible and make sure they follow all the standard public safety advice – wear a mask in enclosed spaces, wash your hands, ventilate, and get tested if you have symptoms.
“We have a limited amount of time to try and get ahead of this variant, if we don’t, we can expect serious consequences.”
Book your booster via the national booking portal. The system is very busy, so try again if you are unable to book at first. Additional vaccination capacity will become available in the coming days.
Do not contact your GP to ask for a booster vaccination. If they can offer booster vaccinations, they will contact you.
