Islanders asked to follow guidance to help keep businesses open
As part of a new ‘Keep Jersey in Business’ campaign, local businesses are urging Islanders to follow the guiding principles of the Government’s COVID-19 Winter Strategy to help keep them in business this winter:
- to get themselves and their family members vaccinated against COVID-19 and flu as soon as possible
- to know their COVID-19 status, by increasing the frequency of lateral flow testing (LFT), before meeting other people, attending parties, large events, going to a restaurant, and spending the day Christmas shopping
- to wear face coverings in indoor public settings whenever it is practical - this includes in shops, when not eating or drinking in restaurants or bars, and anywhere indoors where distancing cannot be guaranteed or where there is poor ventilation
- staying home if experiencing COVID-19 symptoms and booking an online PCR test.
As set out in the Winter Strategy, Islander behaviour continues to play an important role in supporting protective measures for the Island’s workforces, to avoid disruption to business continuity and our economy, whilst ensuring we protect our health service provisions and vulnerable over the coming months.
All Islanders over the age of 12 can now participate in the Lateral Flow Home Testing scheme, by signing up online to receive a free box of LFT tests delivered to their home. In the run up to Christmas, all eligible Islanders are encouraged to be taking an LFT test and submitting the results ahead of going a restaurant, event, attending a salon or spa, or going Christmas shopping.
Eligible Islanders are being urged to get vaccinated against COVID-19 and flu with both viruses in co-circulation this winter. School children aged 12-17 can continue to walk into Fort Regent without a booked appointment to get their first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine this week.
Islanders eligible for a COVID-19 booster will also be offered a free flu vaccine at their appointment. If Islanders are not eligible for a booster but wish to get their flu vaccine, they should contact their GP or pharmacy to book an appointment.
If Islanders are experiencing any one symptom of COVID-19, they are strongly encouraged to stay at home. This will reduce the spread of infection to staff within businesses, friends, and other Islanders. A PCR test should be booked, and Islanders should isolate away from others until a negative result is received.
Minister for Health and Social Services, Deputy Richard Renouf, said: “Islanders will be aware of the extra precautions that we all need to take, particularly over the winter months and in the lead up to Christmas. By being extra vigilant before going to a Christmas party, lunch with friends, or attending other events, we can ensure that the spread of COVID-19 is reduced as much as possible. This can be done by simply taking an LFT before you leave the house, wearing your mask as much as possible, and booking your vaccines.
“When we compare to last winter, we are in a very different position now due to the success of the vaccination programme and the vigilance of Islanders. I urge those Islanders who have not yet booked their first, second, or booster dose if eligible, to come forward as soon as possible as this will give you the best protection against COVID-19, particularly when socialising with others during this busy festive season.
“With the number of positive COVID-19 cases increasing, it is extremely important to stay at home if you are feeling unwell. Islanders should also sign up to a free LFT programme, as these are the best way to detect asymptomatic cases.
“By following this guidance and being careful when meeting other Islanders and visiting businesses, we should be able to have an enjoyable Christmas season with friends and family.”
Deputy Chief Minister, Senator Lyndon Farnham, said: “It is really important we all do our part to help keep our local businesses open this winter. By following the latest guidance, we are ensuring that the next few weeks are enjoyable and safe for both those who are visiting businesses such as shops, restaurants and pubs, and the staff who are working within those businesses.
“The COVID Safe team continue to visit and work closely with businesses to offer support on how best to implement the guidance and have ensured that businesses are well prepared on how to prevent COVID-19 spread during the busy season ahead. If we all follow the guidance that has been outlined, we will maintain business continuity and have an enjoyable Christmas season.”
Government of Jersey News Release.