THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC

Letter From Dr Sally Hiscock                                                                           

                                                                                               6th January 2022

Dear All 

Happy New year!

I have to say I feel much more positive about 2022 than I did about 2021. Although we are still pestered by Creepy old coronavirus, and he inflicts limits on our lives, he is much less of a sinister threat .This is largely due to the enormous success of the vaccine programme which has provided us with a robust if not completely impregnable shield to the harm he dishes out

Several villagers have succumbed to the virus over the past few weeks and so we are not secure from damage. Those affected liken the illness to a heavy cold but are most disadvantaged by the ensuing isolation for 7 days which is extremely tedious.

We can’t relax from social distancing ,wearing masks and checking lateral flow tests especially before joining in any group activity but covid is no longer to be feared as the grim reaper of this time last year.

When doing lateral flow tests the guidance has now reverted to swabbing both your throat and both nostrils.
As the children go back to school there will almost certainly be a surge of cases amongst the under 16yrs whose vaccinations are limited and especially amongst the under 12 yrs. who are unvaccinated. So beware those grandchildren!
Hospitals and GP practices are safe for the fully vaccinated so please don’t delay if you find you have any new or unexplained symptoms that may warrant investigation. 

We are aware that some people may struggle if isolating alone so please contact us if you need any help shopping or getting prescriptions or just a chat to alleviate the boredom. Please contact either me, Christian (790122), Sarah (790212) or Hayley.

The hope is that the virus will continue to weaken in the face of rising herd immunity and hopefully this summer we will be able to enjoy some larger parties and community events again .Next winter may be a bit of a struggle and even the one after that and as for travel abroad sadly I suspect that will remain difficult precarious and frustrating for some time to come.

Have a healthy and happy new year 
 

Dr Sally Hiscock

 

Letter From Dr Sally Hiscock                                                                           

                                                                                               7th January 2021

 

Dear Berwick Resident,

We all thought last year was bad but sadly this year has thrown us into very dark times indeed.

As a group, the Berwick Covid support committee, wanted to write to offer support to enable everyone in the village to stay safe by staying at HOME.

The change in the infectivity of the virus has brought the monster right to our doorsteps. The risk to our lives is probably 20 times greater than during the lockdown last spring.

I would suggest everyone over 65 years of age stays at home, even a trip to the supermarket should be viewed as a dangerous occupation.

That said GP surgeries are safe places to be seen and if you are called for vaccination, they start this week, you must go. It could literally be a life saver .

Please don’t ignore your general health. If you think you are having a heart attack or stroke you must call for help. Similarly, if you notice a new symptom, a lump or bump, blood in your urine or bowel, don’t put it on hold because of the virus, phone your GP.

The next three months are going to be a sad and difficult time but together, as the wonderful community we are, we can get through this. Think about your neighbours and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Everyone likes a chat over the garden wall so let’s all use the telephone to talk to each other.

Please be careful who, if anyone, enters your home even family members can bring that unwanted virus.

SO STAY SAFE STAY HOME BUT DONT BE ALONE - PICK UP THE PHONE .

Roll on summer 

Dr Sally Hiscock