Covid Christmas Bubble Bursting?

CRISIS AT CHRISTMAS?

Latest news – Covid-19 infection levels are high in many areas of the UK and growing rapidly in London and the South East. There is, late in the day, urgent questioning of the "three household" bubble over a five-day Christmas period.

The medical experts are unanimous that the extra social contact involved will increase the spread of the virus. Our political leaders had up to now formed the view that it would be a price worth paying. They also thought that families would get together regardless and so moderate restrictions would be effective. Will new data cause a change of mind?

Tattenhall Online has consistently supported the Tattenhall way, which is to apply the Government guidelines intelligently and to take responsibility for ourselves. This way we have had a safe High Street thanks to our businesses. Local people have maintained social distancing, face covering and have minimised close social contacts. In our view, this has been done based on common sense and understanding of the facts.

WHAT CAN WE DO?

We don't need to wait for the Government to tell us what to do. The answer largely lies in our own hands. We know the risks from increasing close contacts outside our own household. It is our choice whether we take these risks. We should particularly give careful thought to protecting older members and the vulnerable. Vaccination is imminent for this group, after which long-awaited hugs and chats will be much safer. Many other safety measures are available and there is no better Christmas present to give our family than protecting their health. Thankfully younger families with children can be a bit more open but still must be careful.

One Tattenhall resident told us :

"I am absenting myself from my extended family's three household bubble this Christmas. I would much rather be around for them for many Christmas's to come rather than risk it being one final fling just before my vaccination"

Some people plan to exchange presents outside, have a two-metre distanced chat and go home for a cosy Xmas dinner. Others are grateful for Facetime, Skype, Zoom etc. Local businesses are glad to provide pre-Christmas services at the end of a telephone. Tattenhall stands ready to help give ourselves the best Christmas possible in unique circumstances.