The Depute Leader of East Lothian Council is highlighting the importance in everyone continuing to play their part in the fight against COVID-19.
Councillor Norman Hampshire, Depute Leader of East Lothian Council, said:
“While progress with the vaccination programme is welcome, the reality is that too many cases of COVID-19 are still being reported.
“We need to stay on our guard and remember that the new virus strain is up to 70% more transmissible than previous strains.
“We are all looking forward to moving back to a less restrictive way of life, and the evidence suggests that lockdown has been making a difference across the country. But to get to where we want to be we need everyone’s support in continuing to drive down infection levels - and to keep them down. This can only be achieved by following the guidance.
“It will be important to see a greater and more sustained improvement in reduced prevalence of the virus to secure the lockdown easing which East Lothian’s communities and businesses want to see.
“That means observing ‘FACTS’ – wear face coverings, avoid crowds, clean hands, observe two-metres distancing, and self-isolate and book a test if you have symptoms. Please also remember not to have gatherings of family and friends at home, which risks providing a perfect environment for the virus to spread.
“And the all-important ‘stay at home’ message is still in place, including avoiding non-essential travel. Mainland Scotland remains in lockdown.
“I can’t praise the people of East Lothian highly enough – local communities have been fantastic throughout this pandemic.
“The Scottish Government has set out the phased approach being taken to hopefully ease restrictions while continuing to suppress COVID-19.
“While there is a way out of this situation, we can’t afford to take our foot off the pedal now.
“I would also strongly urge people to continue supporting the local businesses which are at the heart of our communities. As highlighted by our ‘Stay Safe, Support Local, Love East Lothian’ campaign, there is an abundance of firms in the county providing the goods and services needed.
“In tackling COVID we need your support. We can do it together.”