Following the recent Government announcement that from next Thursday (27 January) face coverings will no longer be mandatory in public places, the UK Health Security Agency’s infection prevention control (IPC) guidance remains in place for all staff and patients, in GP practices, dental practices, optometrists and pharmacies to ensure that everyone is protected.
People should continue to wear a face covering to keep staff and other patients safe unless exempt and observe social distancing. Many GP practices will display posters at entrances to inform and remind people that they need to wear a face covering, and the NHS will continue to support staff in ensuring that the guidance is followed in all healthcare settings.
“Face coverings and social distancing measures will remain in place in line with current guidance across healthcare settings so that people can continue to safely attend healthcare settings for advice, care and treatment to help protect our staff and patients, particularly those who may be more vulnerable to infections.
As restrictions are lifted in many places everyone still has a part to play in helping to control the virus by getting vaccinated and acting responsibly. It is vital that in all healthcare settings we do all we can to reduce the risk of infection for those working in our services and those who need our care.”
Dr Anna Davey, Local GP
