With much news in the media around
everything to do with COVID-19, we are sharing our regular updates with the aim
of providing you with some clear information.
Vulnerable persons guidance – What
should you do if you have someone else living with you?
Firstly, what defines a vulnerable person? As you are probably aware, those aged 70 or older are automatically classed as vulnerable regarding COVID-19. Those under 70, and those with underlying health conditions are described in this clear list, linked from the Government information on social distancing and vulnerable people. It is well-worth reading as conditions do vary and are wide.
If you are
living with someone vulnerable or are just at home with your family, these
guidelines give some sensible actions to follow:
- Minimise as much as possible the time
other family members spend in shared spaces such as kitchens, bathrooms and
sitting areas, and keep shared spaces well ventilated.
- Aim to keep 2 metres (3 steps) away
from people you live with and encourage them to sleep in a different bed where
possible. If you can, you should use a separate bathroom from the rest of the
household. Make sure you use separate towels from the other people in your
house, both for drying themselves after bathing or showering and for
hand-hygiene purposes.
- If you do share a toilet and bathroom
with others, it is important that they are cleaned after use every time (for
example, wiping surfaces you have come into contact with). Another tip is to
consider drawing up a rota for bathing, with you using the facilities first.
- If you share a kitchen with others,
avoid using it while they are present. If you can, you should take your meals
back to your room to eat. If you have one, use a dishwasher to clean and dry
the family’s used crockery and cutlery. If this is not possible, wash them
using your usual washing up liquid and warm water and dry them thoroughly. If
you are using your own utensils, remember to use a separate tea towel for
drying these.
- It is understood that it will be
difficult for some people to separate themselves from others at home. You
should do your very best to follow this guidance and everyone in your household
should regularly wash their hands, avoid touching their face, and clean
frequently touched surfaces.
Sensibly, if the rest of your
household stringently follow advice on social distancing and minimise the risk
of spreading the virus within the home by following the advice above, there is
no need for them to also shield alongside you.
Even if
you are not living with a vulnerable person, you are now expected to
stringently follow guidance on social distancing.
The main criteria to social
distancing are described below:
They are to:
- Avoid
contact with someone who is displaying symptoms of coronavirus (COVID-19). These
symptoms include high temperature and/or new and continuous cough
- Avoid
non-essential use of public transport when possible
- Work from
home, where possible. Your employer should support you to do this.
- Avoid
large and small gatherings in public spaces, noting that pubs, restaurants,
leisure centres and similar venues are currently shut as infections spread
easily in closed spaces where people gather together.
- Avoid
gatherings with friends and family. Keep in touch using remote technology such
as phone, internet, and social media
- Use
telephone or online services to contact your GP or other essential services