Statement about changes to tier system in South East

Dr James Mapstone, Deputy Regional Director for Public Health England South East, said:

“Due to the increasing number of COVID-19 cases, combined with the new variant of the virus, the government has today announced that all areas of the South East will be put in Tier 4, with the exception of Isle of Wight and New Forest in Hampshire, which will move to Tier 3. We are working closely with all local authorities to help prevent further spread of the virus and reduce the overall number of cases.

“Unfortunately, we are still seeing increases in the number of cases and hospital admissions across the South East, which is why it’s necessary to place more areas under Tier 4 restrictions. This has been a difficult year, but it’s vital we work together to bring the numbers down. I urge everyone this Christmas to think very carefully about their plans and whether they can do more to protect themselves and others. Please remember that it is always going to be safest to minimise the number of people you meet.

“Measures are in place to help stop the spread of COVID-19, including the roll out of the vaccine. Community testing programmes are also being introduced to identify asymptomatic cases and break the chains of transmission that we are seeing across the South East. We know that about one in three people who have coronavirus have no symptoms and will be spreading it unknowingly.

“It remains vitally important that we all play our part in following government advice including social distancing, self-isolation, wearing face coverings, and practicing good hand hygiene.

“Please remember, if you have a new continuous cough, a high temperature or a loss of, or change to your sense of smell or taste, arrange a test immediately and remain at home while you wait for the results.”

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