The Government has issued an Activity Risk Guide to support Islanders at high risk of illness from Covid-19 to make suitable decisions, when considering visiting friends and family and spending time outdoors.
Due to the very low levels of Covid-19 in Jersey, Islanders at high risk are advised that they can undertake outdoor leisure activities. The new Activity Risk Guide specifically outlines the activities high risk Islanders may consider resuming while maintaining strict physical distancing and hygiene guidance.
It is advised that Islanders at high risk of illness from Covid-19 should continue to avoid indoor activities outside their household, especially if it is not possible to maintain physical distance. Those at high risk should keep the number of people they socialise with outside their household to small numbers.
If they do not work alone, high risk individuals should not return to the workplace, should avoid using public transport and should continue working from home where possible. Car-sharing in private vehicles is also discouraged for high risk Islanders, unless it is with people they live with. Children who are at high risk of illness from Covid-19 are not expected to attend school and parents should contact their child’s doctor to discuss their specific situation.
The Deputy Medical Officer of Health, Dr Ivan Muscat said, “As lockdown measures ease, the new Activity Risk Guide will empower high risk Islanders to make their own choices about the activities they wish to take part in. It will provide support on how they can prioritise their physical and mental wellbeing.
“Advice for high risk Islanders is constantly under review, but it currently reflects the very low levels of Covid-19 in the Island. It is crucial that individuals who are high risk from the virus should strictly avoid contact with anyone who has symptoms and if you start experiencing symptoms you should call the helpline immediately.
“I would like to reassure Islanders that the risk of infection in healthcare settings is very low. It is important that everyone attends their medical appointments and seek medical advice, whether this is Covid-19 related or not. If you are high risk and would like help with groceries or other essentials, please seek support from Connect Me by phoning the helpline.”
High risk Islanders will receive a letter by 1 July from their GP, to explain the new guidance and what it means for them. Such individuals should contact their GP if they consider themselves high risk and do not receive a letter by this date.
The full updated guidance for high risk individuals is available online or via the Coronavirus helpline on 445566.