THE Isle of Wight Council has issued some advice on staying safe during the Easter holidays. 

"Living with Covid-19 means we must continue to be extremely careful and follow public health advice going forward."

That's the message from the local authority ahead of the Easter school holidays next week, following the latest changes to Covid guidance.

To help limit any further spread of the virus, Simon Bryant, director of public health on the Island, says it remains the right choice to follow the safe behaviour advice.

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“It’s been an incredibly tough couple of years for everyone," said Simon.

"While the restrictions are now removed, and most testing reduced, the pandemic is not over. 

"We should all continue to follow public health guidance to protect ourselves and others.

"If you have symptoms of Covid-19 or another respiratory illness, and a high temperature or feel unwell, please try to stay at home and avoid contact with other people.

"Resume normal activities when you feel well enough, and you no longer have a high temperature. 

"If you have a positive Covid-19 test result you should try to stay at home and avoid contact with other people for five days, which is when you are most infectious.

"Please think about our vulnerable Islanders including your friends and family. 

"Avoid close contact with anyone who might be at higher risk of becoming seriously unwell if infected."

Guidance advice:

•    Get fully vaccinated. Vaccines remain our best defence against the virus, can reduce the risk of serious illness and help stop the spread of the virus. 
•    If you have symptoms of or confirmed Covid-19, stay at home and avoid contact with other people. If possible, don’t go to work if you are unwell.
•    Keep washing your hands regularly.
•    Wear a face covering in crowded and enclosed spaces.
•    Meet outside and let fresh air in if you meet inside.
•    Don’t forget the basics of good hygiene like covering your mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing.

Councillor Karl Love, cabinet member for public health, said: "Our Covid support officers have handed out more than 10,000 free LFT test kits over the past two weeks to Islanders. 

"Please use these to keep yourselves and others safe.

"I’d like to remind everyone that support is available for all Islanders, whether you’re struggling with your own or others' mental health, or need help putting food on the table.”

The council’s Covid-19 helpline on (01983) 823600 is still available, and the website Keep The Island Safe continues to be updated with help, support and advice for residents.