RESIDENTS who are most at risk from coronavirus are being urged to take a few extra steps to stay safe.

Hampshire County Council are asking their most at risk residents to take a few steps to make sure they are protected.

It comes after confirmation that the county is currently at COVID alert level Medium, as determined by the Government’s recently announced three-tier system.

Councillor Liz Fairhurst, Hampshire County Council’s Executive Member for Adult Social Care and Health said: “With COVID-19 infections rising across Hampshire, we are issuing additional guidance for residents who are most at risk from the adverse effects of the virus to help them take all practical steps to protect themselves and remain safe. This includes anyone who is ‘clinically extremely vulnerable’ and who was previously shielding.”

Anyone living in a Medium alert level area must follow the national government guidance which includes – not meeting in groups of more than six people, maintain social distance from anyone not in your household of two metres, wearing face coverings in certain situations, and hand wash – frequently.

Hampshire residents in the clinically extremely vulnerable group – as well as those who have a long term health condition or are aged over 60 - are being encouraged to follow these steps to help further reduce their risk.

Where possible limit social contact, meet outdoors and avoid crowded places

If you need to shop or pick up medications, go at a quieter time or ask friends and family to collect for you - alternatively use on-line delivery or click and collect services.

Continue to access social care, medical services and urgent care when you need to.

Limit unnecessary journeys on public transport.

Work from home where possible (children can still attend school).

Councillor Fairhurst added: “As we head into the winter, and with colds, flu and the coronavirus in circulation, we hope that by taking some additional precautions, our most vulnerable residents will be less likely to contract the virus, helping to keep them well in advance of a vaccine becoming widely available."