Small numbers of non-public facing workers will be able to return to the workplace, while takeaways and other non-essential deliveries will be able to operate again.
It comes following what has been described as an “encouraging” downward trend in Covid-19 case numbers, which dropped to 74 over the weekend. Sunday’s new cases – which aren’t shown in the latest published test results – reflect both the cause for optimism and the need for caution.
“We’ve had four cases today,” said Dr Nicola Brink last night. “Three of these identified through our contact tracing processes. All three were negative when they went into self-isolation and subsequently became positive, so have no contacts that we need to contact trace further.
“However this evening a symptomatic person did come forward who we tested and we found to be positive, so this is an unknown community case and this highlights the need for us to be vigilant as we move forward into Stage 1.”
Here is a Sunday evening update from Dr Brink ahead of Guernsey moving into Stage 1 from tomorrow. Please get in touch if you have any symptoms of COVID-19 (however mild) by calling 756938 or 756969: https://t.co/3uD8p5D8gA – good night everyone! #GuernseyTogetherpic.twitter.com/FMmu9EYwbZ
— States of Guernsey (@Govgg) February 21, 2021
What does Stage 1 mean?
Households that were not able to create a ‘support bubble’ when they were introduced earlier this month are able to bubble with one other household. Outdoor gatherings of up to five people outside of a household bubble will also be permitted, as long as they are socially distanced.
Some non-public facing workplaces will be able to operate with up to 10 members of staff for outdoor sites, and up to 5 members of staff for indoor sites, if their work cannot be done remotely. More details can be found HERE.
Deliveries and takeaways are able to operate again in line with Public Health requirements.
Some of the guidelines have been amended since they were announced, with clarification for fitness instructors and potential developments on the attendance of antenatal scans just two examples. Where there is any uncertainty, people are being told to take a “common sense” approach.
“[Stage 1] is a very limited ‘unlocking’ to ensure we do not see another sudden rise in cases,” said Civil Contingencies Authority Chairman Peter Ferbrache.
“But it’s a positive step forward and does allow us to see some of our loved ones again, and allow some parts of the economy to get back to work in a careful, controlled way.”
Pictured: The latest published Covid-19 stats, as of Saturday night.
